Thanksgiving Trimmings

Count your blessings instead of your pennies this Thanksgiving with some smart holiday planning. Hosting a Thanksgiving dinner can always be stressful, and this year has extra pressure potential. Although we can't do much about rising prices at the grocery store and at the pump, you can make the most of every dime spent getting your home party-perfect. Read on to find out how SHOP.COM can help stretch your hard-earned dollars to make a happy, memorable Turkey Day.

Top Tables:
Skip the fancy florist centerpiece this year and opt for something simple and homemade. Fill a glass vase with in-season fruits or vegetables, like pomegranates, apples or pears to create a quick and timeless accent. Dress up a simple platter with pretty gourds and pressed fall leaves. If you're crafty, create candle or votive holders from miniature pumpkins. Simply break off the stem and carve out a hole the size of your candle by using a paring knife. Wedge the candle into the top of the pumpkin and secure with museum wax.

Easy Entertaining:
Don't have fancy china? No worriesmismatched pieces make a charming, eclectic statement. If you're in need of some extra plates and glassware to feed the masses, buying in bulk pays off. Caterer sets are inexpensive ways to accumulate pieces in a jiffy. They come with sets of 12 neutral dishes or wine glasses, which blend easily with your existing china.

Cooks Know:
Cookware and utensils don't have to be expensive to work great. Kitchen knives can cost a bundle, but a few on the market are as easy to use as they are on your pocket book. Cooks Illustrated magazine named the Victoronix Forschner chefs knife  the top knife in performance and value.

Party Prep:
Spending a little money to get ready for the holidays can make a big difference in the overall flow of your parties. Stash a few extra folding chairs in the garage or the closet so that you're ready for unexpected guests. Are your guests in a turkey coma? Stock your linen cabinets with spare towels and blankets for last-minute stay-overs.