If you are setting the table this year for your family’s Thanksgiving dinner you may be in a bit of a panic on how to set the scene without blowing a bundle. Before you get your turkey in a waddle, check out these tips on how to decorate that table-scape on a dime just in time for the big meal.
Create a focal point
Choose one spot and make it the focal point. For most people this includes the center of the table, but it can also be the food buffet or even a place for a guest of honor to be seated. Whatever you decide, choose a space that will have the most décor to draw in attention and make a list on how to decorate it. By choosing one larger focal point you will be able to focus your funds and save time, energy, and money.
Use natural elements
You don;t have to buy a lot for fall décor. A few pumpkins and gourds is really all it takes, then you can pick up pine cones, trim tree branches, and rake up some leaves fro your yard to fill in the rest. Let nature save you money and bring the great outdoors inside. Just be sure to check all your natural pieces for bugs. You don;t want any creepy crawlies ruining your Thanksgiving meal.
Go to the Dollar Tree
If you want to use glass plates and stemware without having to purchase an expensive set, check out the Dollar Tree. You can find colored glasses, beautiful plates, and even serving dishes for cheap. If you can’t find the jewel-tones of Fall in the things offered at your local Dollar Tree, go with white or off-white and buy bright accents, like a plum tablecloth and gold napkins.
Use color and patterns, not images
You will get more for your money and find more if you stick with colors and patterns and not themes in images. For example, if you go with an orange tablecloth, you can use it again next year and even use it during Halloween. If you choose a chevron pattern it can be used at other events. Don’t limit yourself to just Fall themes, but create a space that is cohesive with color and pattern.
DIY
Tin cans wrapped in twine can be great silverware holders. Wine bottle filled with sunflowers make wonderful vases. Place mats made from paper doilies are cheap and disposable. DIY most of your pieces and spend the money you save on the bigger items, like a giant pumpkin hollowed out and filled with leaves and fresh flowers.
Unexpected items make the difference
Little acorns on the side of plates, cranberries floating in the sparkling wine or juice, candles that give off Fall scents, instrumental music playing in the background, and sachets filled with homemade potpourri for people to take home are all things you can do that cost little to nothing and make all the difference in setting the mood for a cozy holiday meal.