Slinkey: You're the one I saw recently with the wood table and Parson's chairs! I love your set. But I think you're pretty far from TX, aren't you?? ^_^ Susan209: I got on Craigslist all the time! And I would totally consider getting a second-hand one. Biggest issue is having the cash for one (where at a store I could pay for it in installments). But, I keep my eyes peeled. Although, just yesterday I found someone selling 6 Parson's chairs (with decent slipcovers) for $50 each. So, things are out there. Joann and Linda: Thank you for the wise advice. You're right about taking my time. My husband has already suggested getting one of those folding tables anyway, and with 9-10 adults and 7 kids (ranging from 1 yr to 18) slated for Thanksgiving, they wouldn't all fit at a formal table that would fit in that space anyway. And, of course, another issue is money. I'd rather save for something nice than put something on credit (and then have something happen where we couldn't pay off, ya know?). That's why I love coming here and reading everyone's points of view -- many, many years of experience. Thanks again! You've given me much to think about (and I really do think that maybe the rented/folding table and chairs may be a better solution for Thanksgiving, and I won't feel so frazzled to get a house in order and new furniture in and can focus on what matters most -- family!). *hugs to all* ^_^

We went to a dinner party just last night. Several dining areas and one had bench seating on one of the rooms. Lovely room & lovely table. I was not quite the last person at the table, but had to sit in the middle. There is just not a graceful way to slip into the center. Both persons on the ends had to get up so I could be seated. Fortunately, they were very gracious, and I was very thankful I was wearing slacks and not a dress. I'd been considering bench seating too, but after this experience, I think I'll be going with chairs.

Actually I don't use the dining room much. The glass doesn't concern me - it is replaceable and I grew up with a glass top table. If I have company I'll use a tablecloth or placemats. I found some placemats I love at crate and barrel and tried them out on their halo table and they looked amazing. Then when I went back to evaluate the table, the chairs stood out too far from the table. I might use the table with my laptop, but I'll put something down to protect the glass and I might use an office chair instead of a dining chair. I like the idea of glass over wood because the floor is dark wood. I like the transparency of the table because I will want to see the wall unit through it. I like the idea of the rug because the rug I have there now really brightens up the dark dining room, and the wood base will be separated from the wood floor, and there will be protection for the chairs. (Felt adhesive pads collect dog hair.) I would be open to other tops besides wood. They have a smaller copper top and a smaller marble top. The cool thing about the table is that is is just a base, and I can change the size and material of the table top. I'm just not sure if I like the X shape. And I agree about the mish mash of legs. I'm trying to find simple chairs. Or a simple base, but the pedestal tables tend to look either really traditional or really cheap. I have a modern aesthetic.

Change the chair seats, the LIGHT add curtains, Add a rug.......It isn't decorated yet!! Do the table switch last........ The light is Hubbardton Forge, The rug is an 8 x 10 charcoal sisal , 225.00 There's a lot of junk in tables, with finishes that will not hold up. .............switch the table last. Or paint what you have, to a soft black top, and white base. This is a minefield category of junkola out there. Arhaus on the one below........save your money : ) https://www.denverfabrics.com/p242131_66467-greypeachpink-plaid-linen https://www.lightology.com/index.php?module=prod_detail&prod_id=207623