I always have the best intentions of hosting during the holidays. But I can’t tell you how many opportunities pass me by due to my lack of planning.
This year, I intend to be different!
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I hope today encourages you to plan a Friendsgiving NOW, before your calendar fills up! A good old fashion “save the date” is the first step in making it happen.
Since Thanksgiving is a full job in itself, I recommend keeping your Friendsgiving to as little work as possible.
PRO TIP: Let your guests bring the food and leave the decor up to you!
In that spirit, here’s exactly how to set up an easy and affordable Friendsgiving gathering I did in collaboration with Evite!
Anyone who likes to throw a no fuss dinner party {but wants it to still look fancy}, this is for you.
9 Affordable Friendsgiving Tablescape Ideas
Set the tone:
The BEST way to build excitement is with a proper save the date. Evite has some darling electronic invites. Where Evite comes through is their automated reminders, leaving you with more time for the party planning! I especially like this one, this one, this one, this one and this one!
Layer table cloths and runners:
I like layering because it builds interest and gives your table dimension. Plus it’s EASY! So have your tablecloths and runners work for you – building the perfect foundation. It’s as EASY as pie too. If you’re unsure where to begin, a burlap/jute runner over a white tablecloth is a great place to start!
Add some green:
This faux eucalyptus makes the center of the table pop! Not to mention you can use it year after year. For a lush statement, double up! This particular eucalyptus is ONLY $17.99!
Ambiance:
Intertwine pumpkins and candles to set the mood! Mini white pumpkins are always a classic and everyone looks better by candlelight.
An element of surprise:
Switch it up! These individual charcuterie boards will get you guests talking and make your party memorable. It’s a refreshing twist from your typical cheeseboard and one thing your friends don’t have to share! I got six of these for just $17 from Amazon.
A pop of color:
Bittersweet is one of those classic florals for Fall but unique from the usual pumpkins and gourds. Even the faux stuff looks REAL. I have a mix of both here – can you tell which one is real and which one’s fake? I bet not!
Texture:
To really give our table a rustic feel, we mixed wooden plates {these used to be my grand-dads!} with my moms vintage ceramic dishes. Oh can we talk about the pumpkin soup bowls? So much texture! All these organic elements mix so well. Note – whether its bowls, plates, salt and pepper shakers or serving platters, work with what you already have!
End on a Sweet Note:
When you follow a theme all the way through, that’s when you know you’ve nailed a fabulous dinner party. And I’m talking dessert! I adore this apple pie in a brown paper bag. It’s OUT OF THIS WORLD. All that gooey, messy, crumbly pie is the perfect ending to your rustic Friendsgiving.
Party Favors:
Speaking of dessert, gourmet chocolates double as decor and something guests can savor after the party. My mother-in-law always does this and I think it’s the sweetest gesture. I personally love to go local. These chocolates are so scrumptious!
Get more Friendsgiving tablescape ideas and a head start on your Evite today!
Photos by Chicago Andrea Creative
A huge thanks to Evite for sponsoring this post! A company I’ve used for years.
