The beauty of holiday table centerpieces...

Photo credit: Gridley & Graves

Part of setting a beautiful table is a centerpiece appropriate to the occasion. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I went looking for inspiration. I love the bold beauty and elegance of the flowers above - not to mention the colors would easily take you into the Christmas season for that period of transitional decorating. The same can be said for the lovely gilded pear centerpiece below. (If you are interested in creating the pear centerpiece, click here for the how-to.)

Photos above and below from marthastewart.com

For a simple but still pretty centerpiece, consider filling a dish with little pumpkins or gourds and some nuts. It's a perfect look for the traditional Thanksgiving table. The smaller flower centerpiece below is accentuated by a gourd or two and some lovely candlesticks, always a classic choice.

I know the food is the main attraction at Thanksgiving, but presenting a lovely table will only make your guests appreciate the whole dinner even more. Something to keep in mind...

Photo credit: Steven Randazzo