By Leslie Linsley

“Christmas On Nantucket” (Globe Pequot)

November 2023

Whether you live on the island or will be spending Thanksgiving and Stroll Weekend in your vacation home, make it as comfortable and welcoming as possible. Imagine the parties and family get-togethers you’ll be hosting and make a list of things you need, from serving platters to extra seating. Do you have the right size tablecloth, enough placemats, and napkins (they don’t have to match), silverware, a turkey baster, glasses, candles and candlesticks, dishes, (all available in Housewares). Forget those flimsy aluminum roasting pans and buy an honest-to-goodness turkey pan you’ll use forever.  This is the time to go overboard and bring out all your good stuff! Reminder to pick up silver polish.

            The holidays provide a good excuse to upgrade your living or dining room with one dramatic statement. Michael Flanagan, Home Furnishings Manager, believes that a rug is the foundation of a room and has been sourcing and building an impressive inventory of rugs that belong in the elegant, upscale homes that have become a trademark of the island.  His knowledge is impressive, and his enthusiasm is infectious when he explains how “the workmanship of the knotted wool and silk rugs we have in stock is flawless, and the variety of patterns and colors give homeowners plenty of options.” These rugs, like fine artwork, are a worthwhile investment and speak volumes about taste and sophistication. Like artwork and textiles, the patterns and colors of a rug infuse a room with personality. Visit the showroom and take advantage of Mike’s expertise. I just got a new rug for my living room and I can’t believe how the right rug  absolutely elevated the look of the room.

            Setting a festive table is a good excuse to bring out all the things you cherish and perhaps inherited to represent family members past and present. Everyone has something that reminds them of their childhood even if it’s just the mundane bowl your mother or grandmother used to serve vegetables for everyday dinners.  It’s a time for playing, “remember when”. This is why we hold onto these things. I love to use a quilt as a tablecloth because it’s the quintessential symbol of hominess. A white mattlessé cover offers a more formal look when combined with white linen napkins tied with deep green grosgrain ribbon. Tuck a sprig of greens or dried lavender under each ribbon. Fill a third of a glass vase or bowl with dried peas or cranberries, insert a fat white candle and set on greens for the centerpiece.

A few more simple ideas for a festive fall table.

1. Gather shells, stones, greens from a nature walk to create a Nantucket themed centerpiece. Or use as place cards.

2. Scoop out the tops of granny apples, gourds or small pumpkins to hold votive candles.

3. Use Magic Marker to write each person’s name on a leaf to tuck under the napkin ribbon. Tip: Flatten leaves with a hot iron.

4. Use photographs as place cards. (Baby pictures of adults are always fun). Encourage everyone around the table to share why they’re grateful to be together on this beautiful island.