A Sustainably Foraged Holiday Tablescape

The land looks barren in November. It is a far cry from the show-stopping hues of early Autumn and just on the verge of transforming into the splendid wonderland of Winter’s icy grip. Like the forgotten middle child, sandwiched between two glories, lies the grey and muddy month of November. It is plain - drab, even. Yet, I don’t believe it receives the recognition it so earnestly deserves.

Where others overlook this understated micro-season and turn their heads in disgust at the brown and grey, I see beauty. I see grace and earthiness. I see a steady calmness lying in the shadows of a slow transformation. I see humility in it’s imperfection.

To embrace this month of chilled quiet days, I set out into the woods to feel the crunch and tack under my boots, smell the great green pines, and touch the rough bark before winter storms move in. In my latest woodland adventure, I sought to bring the kiss of nature’s November to the dinner table. As it turns out, I enjoy this simple foraged holiday tablescape so much that I think I’ll keep it around through the New Year.

Not only does this tablescape provide a beautiful setting to gather ‘round during the holiday season, but it also serves as a reminder that there is virtue in the calm, understated, and the plain. This is one reminder so desperately needed leading up to the glitz and hype of Christmas and New Years. My holiday table will hold the space for intentional holiday gatherings, delicious home-cooked meals, catch-up conversations with old friends, and heart-centered connections with family.

See how I’ve captured the essence of nature’s understated calm through my sustainably foraged holiday decor.

Foraging tools: Barebones Living

From a felled tree, I clipped just a few small pine branches, gathered a handful of fallen pine cones, and picked up a broken pine branch that was easily sawed into smaller logs. Harvesting such a small amount from the forest made my impact on the environment minimal - an important thing to remember on any sustainable foraging adventure. After a quick stop at my local thrift shop, I scored two iron candlestick holders, gently used beeswax candles, and three vases - all under seven dollars. The collection of theses items are easily put together to evoke a timeless woodland look. The natural scent of pine that emanates from the table offers just the right amount of holiday spirit. Sometimes, it is the quiet, simple, and most understated elements that provoke the most memorable experiences. This is my kind of sustainable holiday decor.