Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that's really about the people around the table. Blue Bird was inspired by family — by Shauna's late father Jack, who loved winter mountain gatherings with the people he cared about, and who always had a pastry and an espresso nearby. This post is full of simple ideas to make your table feel a little more personal and special.

Photo Place Cards

One of the most fun things you can do at a Thanksgiving table is scatter childhood photos. Collect pictures from family members beforehand and create place cards featuring each guest's younger self — baby photos for the little ones. Young and old guests love it equally.

Individual Bread Loaves

Personal mini loaves of bread make a charming addition to any place setting. Tie each one with a piece of string, add a fresh sprig of thyme or rosemary, and tuck in a name tag — instant warmth and welcome. Disposable mini bread pans are available from Amazon and King Arthur Flour.

Mini Cheese Herb Breads

Makes 6 mini loaves.

Ingredients:

• 3½ cups flour
• ⅔ cup sugar
• 4 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups milk
• ½ cup cooking oil
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup fresh thyme, parsley, and oregano, chopped

Instructions:

1. Grease mini loaf pans and preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, herbs, and 1 cup of the cheddar in a large bowl. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk, and oil.
4. Make a well in the flour mixture and add the wet ingredients. Blend until just combined — lumps are fine.
5. Divide evenly among the 6 mini loaf pans. Top each with the remaining cheddar.
6. Bake for 25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Tie each loaf with string and a sprig of fresh herbs. Add a name tag if using as a place setting.

Gold Acorns, Leaves, and Pumpkins

A quick and beautiful tablescape touch: gather mini pumpkins, fallen leaves, and acorns and give them a light spray of gold paint. Arrange them down the center of the table for an easy, elegant seasonal display.

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Wishing everyone a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving. Blue Bird is available for home and workplace holiday celebrations — seasonal desserts, specialty lattes, and hot chocolate, with our espresso cart fitting comfortably in both residential and commercial spaces.