Thanksgiving 2019 was one of the most elegant holidays I have ever done. It was simple, yet classic. Table for 46 please!

I used a black and white theme, and I asked all my guest to wear something black and white as well. This made them all feel that they were an important part of the celebration. And they sure were.

I carefully plan the menu for the evening, and believe the presentation of the menu is almost as important as the presentation of the food. I display it on a large chalkboard and have a calligrapher write the menu on it so everyone would know what was being served.

How fun is this?

The tables had white tablecloths with black overlays. I also ordered black banquet chairs and tied white bows around the back of each chair. 

 

The flowers were especially elegant this year.

Including this beautiful vase on the bar.

Throughout the years, my husband and I have collected antique china plates, each one with a different pattern. I love setting the table with them each year.

Here are my sous chefs for 2019, without whom this would not be possible. They come the day before and that is when the major cooking (and fun) begins. Thanksgiving morning we wake up early and we get right to work. My great-nephew Aaron, (the small guy in front) and my great-niece Jenna, are very big helpers and here they are holding Macy.

Jenna and Aaron do all the juicing for the bar.

Making the pigs in blankets have become a very important part of our Thanksgiving tradition. They guys have so much fun making them, and they are definitely the favorite appetizer of the night.

And of course there are a few dough fights!

Everyone helps washing and drying the dishes.

This year I thought the crudite platter my niece Leslie made came out beautiful! I took this picture before everyone came, that’s why there is no dip in it yet.

I found these beautiful artichokes in the grocery store. My niece Lara made a beautiful bouquet with them.

I purchase tee-shirts for everyone who attends that has the logo of the charity on it. My friend and I have so much fun designing it every year. Of course, there is the yearly picture taken of everyone wearing it. It has become a great tradition and all of our friends look forward to seeing it on Facebook.

As always, all the fun comes to an end.

We are already looking forward to next year!

It’s that simple! (uh, not really)