Thanksgiving Table IDeas: Incorporating Your Ugly Family Heirlooms

Nov 15

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We all have them, an "ugly" family heirloom that holds great sentimental value but completely opposes the aesthetic of our modern decor. Chances are, it was your grandmother's or favorite uncle's, and it means a great deal to have it on the table during these special family gatherings. So, how do you include Grammy's vintage ceramics, and still slay the Thanksgiving Tablescape Game? READ ON, my friends!

When we asked you about your own family heirlooms on Insta, we got a lot of replies about everything from the overly ornate dishware set to aggressively kitchy candlesticks and extremely tired linens. Just take a look through Etsy and you'll find no shortage of people trying to offload their vintage family heirlooms, and some at quite a hefty price tag! Google "ugly dishware" though, and you'll find West Elm, Pottery Barn and others selling these very sets, brand new! So, if West Elm thinks ugly vintage dishware is back in style, surely we can find a way to incorporate Nana's gravy boat into our Holiday tablescape!

3 Tricks for blending the old with the new

Find something new that creates symmetry with the old item. For example, we used Stacy's Grandfather's vintage, gold-rimmed decanter for wine on our Thanksgiving table. To make this feel intentional, I sourced gold-rimmed wine glasses to create symmetry and cohesiveness throughout the tablescape.
Blend it in - Working off of the green leafs of these vintage ceramics, I created a runner of greens down the table to help blend the ceramics in, rather than let them steal the show.
Finally, be proud! Honestly, who cares that your uncle's vintage gravy boat is hideous or doesn't match your dishes! Take the opportunity to tell your family and friends why you have this vintage piece, where it came from, and honor those who are no longer with us. After all, uniting family and coming together to share memories is what the holiday, and especially the Thanksgiving, spirit is all about!