22 Table Decor Hacks for a Festive Friendsgiving

Nov 19, 2015

It’s T-Day crunch time, y’all. And with all the rushing around looking for pie recipes and the best dishes for your Friendsgiving, there is barely enough time left over to think about decor. Believe it or not, five-minute decor for Thanksgiving is *not* a dream. These decorations are the answer to your hostess prayers. With simple how-to steps and only a handful of materials needed for most of these, you can whip ’em up between that sweet potato casserole and your famous eggnog.

1. Confetti Turkey: This turkey is more than just decoration; it’s also a treat for the kids to enjoy while they are waiting to fill their plate. They will love the confetti — though they probably are not going to offer to be on clean-up crew. (via Studio DIY)

2. Copper-Wrapped Candles: LED candles and copper foil tape make for beautiful — and safe — candles for the Thanksgiving table. (via The Holiday Collective)

3. Glam Glassware: Get festive with this easy stemware DIY. Personalize glasses with the names of your guests or thankful, seasonal quotes. These glasses were done with stickers, but you can get a similar effect (depending on your handwriting) with oil pens. (via Hostess With the Mostess)

4. Paint Pen Pattern No-Carve Pumpkins: These patterns look chic on small white pumpkins, but the designs would look great on classic orange pumpkins too. The best part? This DIY only takes five minutes per pumpkin. That leaves plenty of time left over to cook a stellar Thanksgiving dish. (via Lovely Indeed)

5. Thanksgiving Dinnerware: These copper polka dot dishes will look gorgeous on your Thanksgiving table. Wondering how to get those dots looking so perfect? A carrot is the secret ingredient in this DIY. (via Babble)

6. Colorful Gourds: Nobody ever said that your Thanksgiving decor needed to be orange and red and brown. Grab some spray paint and take your tablescape up a notch with these bright and beautiful gourds. (via Inspired by Charm)

7. Emoji Turkey Leg Balloons: These Thanksgiving balloons are perfect for the friends that can converse solely in emojis. To top it off, these are made with only construction paper. Go on, get in touch with your inner third-grader. (via Aww, Sam)

8. Gold Geo Napkin Rings: Would you believe us if we told you these pretty rings are made from duct tape and cardboard? Cross our heart. These art deco napkin rings are the easiest thing you will make all day. (via Almost Makes Perfect)

9. Hand-Stamped Geometric Napkins: These geometric napkins will look great on your table whether you include the iron-on pumpkins or not. Staying true to the season, this DIY uses gourds and potatoes as stamps. (via A Cozy Kitchen)

10. No-Carve Decoupage Pumpkins: If you are good with scissors, pick up some floral paper, Mod Podge and gold thumbtacks on your next craft store stop. Create swirling designs with the thumbtacks or personalize the pumpkins with your family initial. (via Gold Standard Workshop)

11. Gold Pine Cone Place Card Holders: Pine cones were practically made to be place card holders. Spray the tips with some gold paint to give them a bit of polish. Then top them with a simple scribed name card. (via Squirrelly Minds)

12. Mini Air Plant Wreath Place Cards: You can buy the kit to make these or you can head to the store for a few things: a wood embroidery hoop, embroidery thread and some small air plants (real or fake). Some black card stock and a metallic pen are all you need to make the simple place card. (via Lovely Indeed)

13. Paper Leaf Table Runners: If you are the list-maker, note-taker kind, there is a good chance you already have everything you need to make this table runner. Leave pens at the table and let your guests share what they are thankful for. (via Momtastic)

14. Geometric Clay Place Cards: Take a Play-Doh break for adults. These geometric place cards are the perfect accompaniment to the geometric napkins above. (via Delineate Your Dwelling)

15. Kraft Paper Table Runners: Use kraft paper as a simple table runner. Make use of metallic markers and set the table or draw some festive designs. (via Dawn Nicole Designs)

16. Turkey Feather Place Cards: Grab some markers and get coloring. These adorable place cards only call for some pieces of paper, markers and corks. (via Almost Makes Perfect)

17. Faux Floral Runner: The best part about this faux floral table runner is that you can store it and save it for next year’s dinner table. Spray paint faux greenery and flowers for a sophisticated look. (via The Proper Blog)

18. Metallic Leaf Candle Holders: It’s time to get cooking, ’cause you will need to preheat the oven for this DIY. Just use a leaf-shaped cookie cutter to create these metallic candle holders. (via Twinspiration)

19. Copper Jigger Vase: A copper jigger makes for a super chic mini vase. Grab a bouquet of flowers and your prettiest glassware and you will have an elegant setting for two or 10. (via A Bubbly Life)

20. Copper Taped Pumpkins: Copper foil tape is your new BFF. Use strips to outline tiny pumpkins and place them all around your Thanksgiving table or atop your mantel for a fancy festive feel. (via Homey Oh My)

21. Gold Place Setting Tags: Use simple gift tags to create a smart and sparkly place setting. You could opt to forgo the names and instead choose some thoughtful and thankful quotes. (via The Beauty Dojo)

22. Garland and Flare: Is it even a party without some flare? This garland and flare set the scene for a colorful Friendsgiving. (via Homey Oh My)

Which of these will be at your table this Thanksgiving? Tweet us your photo or let us know in the comments below.

Creative Christmas Tablescape Ideas To Impress Your Guests

The holidays are just around the corner, and if you can’t wait for all the festivities and family fun, you may already be planning your Christmas spread. With all the delicious food, drinks, and party games to be enjoyed, the dining table is a key part of everyone’s festive décor and is one of the ways to impress your guests.

Laying a beautiful Christmas tablescape doesn’t have to be expensive or overcomplicated, either: all you need is some good-quality staples, festive accessories, and a few of your own personal touches. To help get you started, Denby, one of Britain's oldest pottery manufacturers (their ceramics are stunning!), share their top tips on how to create a unique Christmas tablescape this year.

Plan out your tablescape ahead of time

Whether you shop for decorations a few weeks beforehand or even brainstorm ideas with a quick sketch, it’s wise to have a clear idea about the contents and layout of your table before the big day. If you’re not sure where to start, it often helps to decide on a color scheme or an overall theme and build from there. For instance, you might opt for a traditional look with red, green, and gold accents that remind you of Christmases gone by. Or, you may want to try out a more minimalist look this year and experiment with rising trends like eco-friendly decorations.

It's easy to get a little carried away when you’re being creative, but try to make sure that your table is still practical and comfortable for your guests, as well as looking beautiful. In between the decorations, centerpieces, and place settings, be sure to leave enough space for plates, glasses, serving dishes, and any other essential items you’ll need to use. This way, no one will feel cramped or short of space enjoying their meal! To save time, you may also want to lay your dining table the night before — this means you can focus on opening presents and preparing dinner on the day, knowing that you’ve got a beautiful tablescape ready and waiting.

Choose the right homeware

Even though they serve a practical function, your plates, bowls, and serving dishes play a large part in the overall aesthetic of your table too. You may have a dedicated set of ceramics that you use for Christmas, but if you don’t, it can be just as effective to use some of your favorite neutral staples. Especially if you’re using décor like a patterned tablecloth or bright centerpiece, you can balance this out by using classic pieces in understated colors. This is why investing in durable ceramics that last is always worthwhile: you can make use of them all year round.

Other essential pieces like cast-iron cookware, serving platters, and mugs are all perfect for the festive season, as they allow you to serve everything from appetizers and main meals to comforting hot drinks easily. As well as ceramics, don’t forget to add some of your best glassware to serve up the wine, Champagne, or festive cocktails you’ll toast with during dinner.

Using versatile or more neutral pieces like these also allows you to be more flexible. For example, if you need to add an extra seat at the table, using more understated homeware means you won’t have to use plates in drastically different colors or patterns. This will help you maintain a coherent theme for the table, even if your plans change to accommodate friends, family, or neighbors. After all, the more the merrier!

Forage for a natural centerpiece

With the popularity of eco-friendly Christmas decorations on the rise, why not make your own centerpiece with natural foliage? Not only is this a more sustainable way to decorate, but foraging in your local woodland area is a fun, festive activity you can do with the whole family. So, wrap up warm and look out for classic Christmas plants like holly, mistletoe, berries, and evergreen branches like fir or pine. Just be sure to only take what you need and never trespass onto private land when foraging.

When making your own centerpiece, you might take a more relaxed approach and simply lay out your plants across the middle of your table, interspersing this with candle holders, baubles, and any other accessories you have on hand. However, if you’re a little short on space you might make a smaller, more contained piece like a wreath or display them in a ceramic milk jug for a rustic, farmhouse look.

Add some personal touches

You may want to keep your theme more traditional and opt for a classic Christmas look, but if you want to add a little something different, then it’s always fun to include some personal touches — whether they’re for you or your guests. One way of doing this is with your place settings, as you can often make these yourself and have full creative freedom. You might leave a small gift box with a little personalized gift inside, adding a handwritten name tag for each guest. Or, keep it classic with simple name cards and add a few sprigs of the holly or mistletoe you foraged earlier.

Once your place settings are laid, you can also add a personal touch with the glassware you pick out for each guest. For example, if one of your family members loves to toast with a glass of Champagne, make sure to provide them with a nice crystal flute. Whether they like a glass of wine, whiskey, or a hot toddy, giving your guests the right glassware for their favorite drink is a little gesture that shows how much thought you’ve put in to make the perfect Christmas table for you and your loved ones.

Loving this advice and looking for more dining table inspo? Check out our favorite dining table decor to find some stunning pieces to add to your setup!

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Photos courtesy of Denby

A Powerful New Moon Is Coming — Here's What It Means For Your Weekly Horoscope!

We're officially one week into Scorpio season — are you feeling it? Is your intuition heightened? Are you super sensitive and a bit more introverted? It’s a good time to slow down, feel your feelings, and tap into the inner wisdom of your soul. Scorpio is often misinterpreted, perhaps because this season coincides with Halloween, the decreasing daylight in the northern hemisphere, or simply Scorpio’s intensity and power. A key word for Scorpio is transformation, which is never easy.

Think of the caterpillar’s metamorphosis — its time in the cramped and dark cocoon. That primordial, gooey existence is anything but comfortable. Transformation requires time, a willingness to experience discomfort, and patience before emerging as a beautiful butterfly.

Ajaila Walker

Scorpio is one of the healing signs in the zodiac, and while the Sun is in Scorpio, we can make great strides toward healing ourselves and helping others. There’s nothing superficial about Scorpio — it demands depth, wanting to uncover layers and expose what’s hiding. That’s why it’s a great time to focus on your inner world and subconscious mind. All forms of therapy are beneficial during Scorpio season, but psychotherapy is especially powerful if that's an option for you.

Eager to know what this transformational energy has to offer? Read on for your weekly horoscope to understand how this can impact your sun and rising sign!

Astrological Overview For Your Weekly Horoscope

Eugene Lisyuk

The New Moon in Scorpio occurs on November 1 at 9 degrees of Scorpio. You'll want to check your birth chart to see where 9 degrees of Scorpio falls — this is the area of your life where you can experience transformation and growth. New Moons are powerful times to plant seeds for future growth, to dream and plan for the coming month. Take time to reflect on what truly matters during this period of darkness and inward focus.

Yuliia Tretynychenko

Mars, the planet of action and determination, has been opposite Pluto, the planet of transformation, for months. Both Mars and Pluto co-rule Scorpio, creating an intense and volatile energy. This opposition becomes exact again on November 3 and 4. Use this energy to propel yourself in a new direction and honor your true self. Strength and focus can harness this intensity for personal breakthroughs, but be cautious in making impulsive decisions during this time — on the global stage, tensions may rise, and there could be heightened aggression.

Sam Lion

Adding to this turbulent energy, Mercury, the planet of communication and learning, leaves Scorpio and enters Sagittarius on November 2. As Mercury exits Scorpio, it forms a beneficial trine to Mars and a sextile to Pluto. This is a powerful opportunity for words to contribute to healing, so take care in how you communicate. Be mindful of the power your words hold, especially as Sagittarius can be blunt and outspoken. While Mercury is in Sagittarius until January 9, focus on expanding your consciousness, learning new skills, and broadening your horizons.

Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope

Ashley Singerling

November 1 — New Moon in Scorpio
November 2 — Mercury enters Sagittarius
November 3-4 — Mars and Pluto opposition becomes exact

Read Your Horoscope Based on Your Sun and Rising Signs

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

You’re being asked to dig deep into your subconscious this week. Keep your eyes and ears open for messages from dreams or moments of creativity. Meditation or solitude may reveal powerful realizations. If you feel the need to make a major life change, be sure your decisions come from the heart. You’re on the cusp of a creative breakthrough, but make sure your actions are driven by authenticity.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 22 – May 21)

Relationships are in focus for you. This is a great week for couples therapy or deep, transformative conversations with your partner. Be willing to make changes that benefit your relationships, home, and career. Your sensitivity may be heightened, so incorporate self-care and self-love into any changes you make. Don’t shy away from this potential for growth — there’s tremendous opportunity for profound shifts.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Good fortune and harmony are possible, but luck won’t just fall into your lap — you need to be proactive. This could show up in your relationships with others or in your relationship with yourself. Kindness, equality, and fairness are key to success. Be cautious around people exhibiting aggressive behavior. You’ll receive back what you give out, so practice kindness and ensure you’re approaching things with fairness and balance.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

You prefer to avoid conflict, but this week you’ll have the chance to step out of your comfort zone. You don’t have to be confrontational, but a bit of assertiveness will help you move toward your goals. The seeds you plant during this New Moon will grow stronger if you add passion and creativity. Follow your intuition, especially when making important decisions. Your dreams need a touch of energy and action.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

The Mars-Pluto opposition has likely stirred up some drama in your life. Have you mustered the courage to start something new? If not, this week offers an opportunity to fully step into your authentic self and begin a new chapter. Don’t hold back, but be prepared for uncharted territory. Your relationships, particularly with yourself, may need a refresh. Self-love and self-care are essential as you embark on these transformations. You might even consider sprucing up your home or making a move.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Career growth is in focus this week, but you’ll need to find a balance between your home life and work life. You may feel the urge to do more in both areas, but it’s crucial to stay grounded. Pay attention to details and avoid overindulgence. A balance between home and work will lead to the best results — be sure to tend to both areas without letting one consume the other.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Your finances and values are the focus this week. Now is the perfect time to ensure your financial life is in order. Meet with a financial planner or make sure your will is up to date. This planning will give you peace of mind and reduce future stress. Once Mercury moves into Sagittarius on November 2, you’ll feel freer to have fun and pursue adventure, knowing that your financial security is taken care of.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Your power and determination will only grow as the week progresses. Use this time to tap into your inner authority and work toward concrete goals. There’s likely to be movement in your career, but it won’t happen overnight. Patience and sustained effort are required. Cultivate joy and focus on long-term goals — there’s no rush, but steady progress will lead to great results.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Mercury entering your sign on November 2 invites expansion and learning. If you’ve been waiting to start a new project, learn a new skill, or expand your understanding of the universe, now is the time. Subjects like spirituality and philosophy will be easier to grasp during this time. Be mindful, though — your blunt communication style could come off as caustic, so take a breath before you speak.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Mental well-being should be a priority. Use this time to focus on learning and honing your skills. Your approach to life and work is inspiring to others. If you’ve been dealing with self-doubt, discard any negative self-talk and practice self-compassion. You have a natural ability to teach others, so don’t hesitate to share your knowledge with those who might be facing something similar to your experiences.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

This week focuses on your community and your relationship with like-minded people. Group learning and activities will be more impactful than solo efforts. Mercury in Sagittarius from November 2 will encourage you to learn through travel and adventure. Something exciting and transformative is on the horizon — seize the opportunity for growth through connection with others.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

It’s time to focus on your physical health. The energy of this week will make it easier to start a health regimen and stick to it. While you may become more serious about your health, don’t push yourself too hard. Take small, steady steps to make lasting changes. As the week progresses, you’ll feel more confident and enthusiastic about these positive changes to your well-being.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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14 Totally Easy Last-Minute Thanksgiving Decorations

Between the turkey, all the fixin's, and dessert, the last thing you have time to worry about on turkey day are all the Thanksgiving decorations. But you don't need to drop a lot of cash or devote all your time to transforming your place — you can still do it yourself without feeling overwhelmed. To help get those creative juices flowing, we've scoured the Internet for these 14 DIY decorations that you can whip up the day before. Now that's something to be thankful for.

Leftovers Station

Set up a leftovers station before the big meal and make sure no one goes home with an empty hand (or belly). Bonus points if you use some super cute take-home boxes! (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Place Cards

Never underestimate the power of a tiny pumpkin! Dress up your table with tiny pumpkins and a sweet personal touch. (via Brit + Co)

Thankful Garland

Remembering that we have a lot to be thankful for never goes out of style, no matter what season it is. This DIY is so good that you'll want to keep it up all year long! (via Brit + Co)

Friendsgiving Printables

Don't have time to customize everything on your table? Use this pre-made packet and fill in the blanks as you go for the perfect balance between personal and easy! (via The House That Lars Built)

Painted Wood Placemats

Believe it or not, with wood scraps and paint you can put together a tablescape fairly quickly. We love that this DIY means you'll have a Thanksgiving look that is totally unique to you and yours. (via A Bubbly Life)

Last-Minute Table Runner

A make-it-yourself table runner that adds color to the table *and* allows people to write down what they're thankful for? Yes, please. (via Paper & Stitch)

Printable Food Label Cards

When you're in a time crunch, who has time to do all that fancy calligraphy? Print, fold, and forget about it. These are cute, colorful, and can be reused for every holiday! (via Lovely Indeed)

Upgraded Napkins

We're sure that we all have some napkins that are so last year, but there's no need to buy (or sew) new ones when you can spruce up your usuals! Just add few small details will have them looking totally trendy. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Metallic Napkin Rings

If you have a tree in your yard and a gold marker in your office, then you can consider this DIY done! Super easy and it'll add some nice detail to your table. (via Demetres)

Faux Handmade Pie

Now that store-bought pie you were going to eat on your own can look like it came from the fancy bakery. What's better than that? (via PMQ for two)

Gourd Vases

Are your guests arriving in just a few hours and you totally forgot to put together a centerpiece? Carve up gourd-geous vases with plenty of time to spare. (via Tell Love and Party)

Ombre Painted Pinecone Wreath

Adding a little color to your decor will transform your space, so pull out your paint stash and take plain pinecones up a notch. Your wreath is sure to turn heads. (via WhimZeeCal)

DIY Decanter Tags

If everything else is under control and you still have time to make simple additions, whip up these decanter tags that make you hostessing skills look as polished as the silverware. (via Sugar & Cloth)

DIY Donut Pie

Putting those leftover donut holes to good use is a great way to save time and be creative. Plus there's a good chance that if someone doesn't like pie, adding donuts will peak their interest.(via Aww Sam)

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This post has been updated.

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20 Home Decor Accounts To Follow Right Now For Major Fall Inspiration

I turn to Instagram for mainly two things: hilariously adorable pet videos to share with my daughter before bedtime — a nightly ritual we started a year back — and a steady stream of home decor inspiration. Having studied interior design and spent years writing about stunning spaces, my love for beautiful interiors runs deep. The home decor bloggers I follow offer a mix of styles and experiences, from cozy vintage vibes to refined and sophisticated homes and rooms. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space for the season or simply find joy in nesting at home, there’s a little something from everyone here to inspire you. Happy decorating!

PrettyOnFridays

PrettyOnFridays

Writer Deema Tabbara Lopez's Friday newsletter, Merci Ktir, offers a glimpse into all the pretty things bringing her joy each week. Her home is so cozy, filled with vintage charm and lovely DIYs and how-tos (and stunning paint colors!). You'll want to dive into her feed for all the inspiration this fall.

ThisHouse5000

ThisHouse5000

Home decor enthusiast Elena Lohse and her handyman husband have been renovating their 1935 home in Toronto’s west end, the Junction, for the past 4+ years. Her style is clean, fresh, and never boring. I love her DIY videos, and her blog follows their travels too through a unique design lens.

Erin Conway Kismet House

Kismet House

For a masters in warm, cozy traditional spaces, follow Erin and Matthew of Kismet House who share tips and tricks for creating homes that feel unique and full of character.

Michael P.H. Clifford

a1000xBetter

Designer Kirsten Blazek creates rooms that are authentic, stylish, and so comfortable. She really thinks about spaces you want to live in. I'm still swooning over this kitchen of hers that we featured. Her first book A1000xBetter: A Rebel By Designshowcases her eclectic interiors and love of vintage treasures along with her design inspirations and tips.

Banda Property

𝗦𝗮 𝗚𝗿𝗮̂𝗰𝗲

Principal designer Ithabeleng Mothabeng has such a talent for creating stunning interiors. She blends a timeless elegance with modern touches and the result is always gorgeous and sophisticated.

Sam Arneson

Sam Arneson Home

Sam Arneson, an LA-based realtor, brings a thoughtful approach to design with a focus on sustainability and slow living. Her soulful feed is full of inspiration, from mid-century modern gems to cozy woodsy cabins.

OEZLEM OEZSOY

OEZLEM OEZSOY

This Hamburg, Germany-based photographer and home decor enthusiast is known for her sophisticated eye for vintage and mid-century decor, creating beautifully curated neutral spaces.

LEMIEUX ET CIE

The Organic Bubble Vase, Théophile Candle Holder, and Cadoret Bowl

Christiane Lemieux

NYC-based Christiane Lemieux is an author, designer, entrepreneur and the founder of LEMIEUX ET CIE, a luxury home furnishings brand. If you're looking for elevated interiors with a smidge of fantasy and the unexpected, her feed is the place to be. She was also the co-host and a judge on Ellen’s Design Challenge on HGTV and is a regular guest on MSNBC.

Some other favorites to look out for:

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31 Last-Minute DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids

With Halloweenon the horizon, we have to ask the question: Have your toddlers made up their minds about what they want to be for Halloween? If not, there's still plenty of time to put together one of these DIY Halloween costumes inspired by their favorite characters/animals/foods/things. Just choose from any one of these 31 DIY kids costumes that you can whip up in a flash. No tricks here!

Brit + Co

This article has been updated.

diy halloween costumes halloween costumes halloween ideas nsfw fashion

22 Table Decor Hacks for a Festive Friendsgiving

Plan out your tablescape ahead of time

Choose the right homeware

Forage for a natural centerpiece

Add some personal touches

​Astrological Overview For Your Weekly Horoscope

Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope

Read Your Horoscope Based on Your Sun and Rising Signs

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Taurus (April 22 – May 21)

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Leftovers Station

Pumpkin Place Cards

Thankful Garland

Friendsgiving Printables

Painted Wood Placemats

Last-Minute Table Runner

Printable Food Label Cards

Upgraded Napkins

Metallic Napkin Rings

Faux Handmade Pie

Gourd Vases

Ombre Painted Pinecone Wreath

DIY Decanter Tags

DIY Donut Pie

Astrological Overview For Your Weekly Horoscope