It’s been just about a week since my annual A Daily Gathering retreat ended, and I’m still processing everything. Processing the fact that 9+ months and nearly 400 hours of planning and emailing and more planning and packing is over. Processing that 5 glorious days with a house (and cottage)-full of nearly 20 women is over. Processing the exchange of inspiration and knowledge and friendship and conversation. Processing all the laughter and tears (and boy, were there tears). Processing the friends and family who sacrificed to make it possible; processing the helping hands in the kitchen who provided endless amounts of planning, grocery shopping, dish-washing, food preparation. Over the next several weeks (and months), I will be sharing a lot more about this retreat and the folks and brands who made it possible (sorry in advance)! There is just too much to share and so much to be thankful for!

For starters, I’m sharing this beautiful dinner table from our Saturday evening together. I wanted to give a little inspiration just in time for your Thanksgiving dinners this week. I’d been dreaming of a simple, modern table scape, and this one was just perfect (in my opinion). We were so privileged to partner with Line 39 Wines, who provided all our red wine for the entire 5 days we were together. I love the simple label, and am so grateful for their support of A Daily Gathering!

I almost always use neutral plates and napkins; this allows you to incorporate color and texture in other places (and ultimately, you will have a lot more freedom)! These plates are a favorite, the organic-shaped dinnerware from West Elm. My no-so-secret source for large, cotton napkins? Anywhere that sells flour sack towels (Target, Amazon, etc.). They are durable, versatile, and wash easily. For flatware, I’ve collected (from antique stores, flea markets, thrift shops, etc.) assorted silver plated pieces. I have complete settings for about 60 now. My secret here: patience! I never pay more than $1/piece (and usually much, much less)! You can buy a bundle of 4 vintage dessert forks for $48, or you can slowly build your collection and spend $48 on 10 (or more) complete place settings!

And my favorite detail from this dinner: the foraged branches gingerly placed into vintage floral frogs. If you cut branches down and place on the table just an hour or two before your meal begins, the foliage should be just fine out of water. And, if the leaves wilt or wither a bit, it just adds to the charm and texture, right?! You can find these vintage floral frogs at antique stores or on Etsy, or buy them new at Jo-Ann Fabric.

I hope you are inspired by these lovely images by Sweet Root Village; can’t wait to share more about my retreat, An Intentional Autumn! Have a blessed holiday week!