A variety of table and dinnerware can work best to make use of vertical space. O'Connor says to consider how you will make your food display even more appetizing: 'Use tiered stands, different height bowls, and serving platters and fill them with bite-sized foods that are interesting combinations of textures and tastes expected during the Thanksgiving feast.'
'Imagine the wonder and surprise when serving maple-glazed squash cubes and roasted quartered brussel sprouts woven on cocktail picks. Best of all, think outside the box. A small space probably means a small table and limited seating. Set the table with martini glasses and invite guests to fill them with all the traditional holiday fixings on the table – mashed potatoes, gravy, a dollop of cranberry conserve, and small slices of turkey.'
Pay attention to the details, not just of the feast itself but also of how the day will roll kindly into the evening.
'A stemmed glass is easy to hold on to and so memorable that guests will forget that you invited them to eat this special meal while seated on cushions on the floor.'