Creating a stunning Friendsgiving tablescape is crucial for an Instagram-worthy celebration, whether you’re hosting friends due to distance from family, love playing host, or just want a holiday gathering. We’ve gathered inspiration for both elaborate and simple tablescapes, ensuring options for every type of gathering. And the best part? You can have a beautifully decorated table without the need for an actual turkey centerpiece.

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Illuminate with Candles Friendsgiving Table

Candles add a warm touch to any tablescape, and they’re particularly cozy for Friendsgiving. Incorporate tapered candles in brass candlesticks or any candles you have on hand to create a soothing ambiance as you and your friends gather around the table.

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Infuse Vibrant Colors Friendsgiving Table

Break away from traditional Thanksgiving colors and infuse your Friendsgiving tablescape with vibrant hues like teal and magenta. Experiment with various textures and colors—chargers, candles, glassware—to create a lively and festive atmosphere that mirrors the diversity of your guest list.

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Personalize Drink Markers Friendsgiving Tablescapes

Ensure your guests don’t mix up their drinks by using glass markers. You can either purchase markers or get creative by making your own. Dine x Design crafted wax seal markers using wax, seals, and different colored ribbons, adding a personalized and crafty touch to each guest’s glass.

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Embrace Neutrals Friendsgiving Tablescape

For a more understated approach or if you prefer not to invest in Thanksgiving-specific decorations, opt for a neutral tablescape using what you already have. A simple linen tablecloth, a mix of chairs (even if they’re mismatched for an eclectic touch), and the company of loved ones can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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Layer Placemats and Plates Friendsgiving Tablescape

Prepare the table ahead of time to save effort on the day of the celebration. This not only streamlines the process but also ensures you have all the necessary dishes and linens. The layered look of chargers, plates, and bowls adds texture and visual appeal to the table.

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Optimize for Grazing Friendsgiving Tablescape

Encourage a more enjoyable dining experience by arranging dishes close together on the table. This not only minimizes spills but also invites guests to sample a variety of dishes, fostering a casual and communal atmosphere.

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Create a Cozy Ambiance Friendsgiving Tablescape

Even if you have a small gathering, you can still elevate your Friendsgiving tablescape. Incorporate flowers, special napkins, and distinctive glassware to add a touch of warmth and sophistication to the meal.

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Set Up a Bar and Appetizer Area Friendsgiving Tablescape

While sides take the spotlight at Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving is all about the snacks. Arrange a selection of appetizers (or have friends contribute) and complement them with festive drinks or a charcuterie spread.

Appetizers are perfect for nibbling while the main course is cooking, and they provide a delightful post-meal snack a few hours later.

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Craft DIY Accessories Friendsgiving Tablescape

If you’re on a budget, embrace a DIY approach to your table setting. For example, create charming napkin rings using wooden rings, velvet ribbon, and dried flowers. Despite their simplicity, these DIY accessories can make a significant impact on the overall table presentation.

As the spooky season unfolds, gothic interior design takes center stage, captivating a growing fan base with its mysterious allure. This trending aesthetic, curated by enthusiasts like Lady Vamp from @ladyvampmanor, encompasses various forms—from traditional black and white or red and black styles to more artistic expressions featuring dark art and period-inspired interiors. Think Victorian/Edwardian opulence seamlessly intertwined with the macabre, creating a unique and captivating ambiance. In this exploration, we delve into the essence of gothic style, unraveling its intricacies and offering insights on how to infuse this dark elegance into your own living space.

There are Different Genres of Gothic Style

Within the realm of gothic style, diversity reigns supreme, as different genres bring forth unique characteristics and atmospheres. Lou Kirby, curator of the gothic style Instagram account @loulamunster, sheds light on this variance. Victorian Gothic, for example, exudes vintage charm with rich, deep colors like reds, greens, blues, and the quintessential black. Ornate patterns, demask, and opulent details such as fur throws and metallic accents complete the look, creating an ambiance of dark luxury. Candelabras and chandeliers, often associated with Victorian Gothic, contribute to the overall sense of opulence.

Central to gothic style is the art of layering, a sentiment echoed by Lady Vamp from @ladyvampmanor. Describing her maximalist approach, Lady Vamp embraces an eclectic mix of texture, antique furniture, vintage oddities, and curiosity pieces, creating a visual feast. Her motto, “More is more,” encapsulates the essence of gothic layering, where every element contributes to a narrative. In Lady Vamp’s own space, a neutral color palette dominates, with black as the foundation, complemented by natural wood, oranges, browns, bone cream, sepia, and gold accents.

Gothic interiors thrive on the power of storytelling through carefully crafted vignettes. Lady Vamp emphasizes the importance of creating visual interest and evoking emotions, even if they lean towards the uncomfortable. The inclusion of Persian-style rugs, mood lighting, and candles further enhances the gothic ambiance. As Lady Vamp aptly notes, “Never underestimate the power of lighting to give you that moody, gothic feel.” In the tapestry of gothic style, each layer contributes to a captivating and immersive experience.

There’s Plenty of Room for Self Expression

For Lou Kirby, the allure of gothic style lies in its capacity to serve as a conduit for self-expression. “Personally, I appreciate the Gothic Style because it gives me an outlet to express my inner self,” she reveals. Embracing the dark, strange, and unusual, Kirby finds joy in curating a collection that includes skulls, candelabras, old books, antique pieces, and eclectic art. Her penchant for rich colors over pastels, coupled with a love for decorating with fabrics and furs, underscores the freedom that gothic style provides.

In the realm of gothic interiors, Kirby finds solace in creating an atmosphere that resonates with her soul—a space that transcends mere aesthetics. Describing it as a haven where she feels cozy, Kirby expresses that it fills her “little black heart” with happiness. This sentiment encapsulates the essence of gothic style as a deeply personal and fulfilling journey, where every element reflects the individuality and innermost desires of its curator.

It’s Easy to Recreate the Gothic Look

For those captivated by gothic style, the quest for unique decor extends beyond the Halloween season. Lou Kirby, an avid enthusiast, suggests that Halloween remains an optimal time for shopping for gothic-style decor. However, she emphasizes that gothic style is not confined to seasonal festivities; for many, it is a way of life and a continuous design journey.

Kirby’s passion for gothic aesthetics goes beyond store-bought items, as she actively explores thrift and antique shops throughout the year. Her home, boasting an 80 percent secondhand composition, becomes a canvas for DIY transformations. Revitalizing old pieces with a fresh coat of paint or a creative touch elevates the decor, fostering a profound appreciation for each unique find.

Similarly, Lady Vamp embraces the spirit of individuality in gothic design, expressing that it allows for a diverse range of personal tastes and preferences. Her vision involves creating an ambiance that exudes a haunted manor feel, intertwining darker elements with macabre items, challenging conventional design norms. In the realm of gothic interiors, the freedom to craft a personal dark fantasy world knows no bounds, encouraging enthusiasts to design according to their desires rather than adhering to rigid rules.

When it comes to spreading holiday cheer, don’t overlook the exterior of your home. Decorating your front door is a wonderful way to welcome guests and share the festive spirit with your neighbors. Even if you have a modest porch, focusing on the front door can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Your front door decor should seamlessly integrate with the overall design of your home, reflecting your personality and interior style. Whether you lean towards modern farmhouse aesthetics or prefer a clean and simple look, your front door decorations can set the tone for the holiday season.

Whether you opt for store-bought wreaths or enjoy crafting your decorations, here are some inspiring ideas to enhance your front door and infuse holiday magic into your home.

1. Stick With Greenery

Sometimes, simplicity is key. Create a fragrant wreath using store-bought greenery or opt for a real one from your local florist or Christmas tree farm. Evergreens provide a traditional Christmas look that complements any exterior color scheme.

2. Opt for Asymmetry

Break away from tradition with an asymmetrical wreath for a modern touch. Use twigs, sticks, or repurpose a metal hoop as the base. Pair it with a simple entryway rug to achieve a contemporary look.

3. Pick a Theme

Choose a theme to guide your holiday decor. This festive front door, adorned with red bows and poinsettias, adds a burst of color to the porch. If you’re in a colder climate, opt for faux poinsettias to withstand the weather.

4. Go Ice Skating

Break away from the traditional wreath and hang a pair of vintage skates at the center of your door. Add a rustic snowshoe and garland strands to complete this charming and unique holiday look.

5. Keep it Traditional

Embrace the timeless appeal of traditional Christmas decor. If your exterior is already ornate, simplicity can be key. Opt for an oversized fresh wreath adorned with a large bow or faux poinsettias, striking the perfect balance of holiday cheer without overwhelming the space.

6. Consider Mini Christmas Trees

Enhance your porch by placing two mini Christmas trees on either side of your front door. Decorate them with bulbs or keep it simple with lights. Ensure you choose outdoor-safe lights for a warm glow. Look for trees around three to four feet tall for an ideal size.

7. Think Outside the Circle

Break away from the circular norm and consider a wreath in a fun shape. A Christmas-tree-inspired wreath adds a playful touch and serves as a unique conversation starter. Explore shapes like stars or squares for an interesting twist.

8. Say it Out Loud

Embrace non-traditional decor with a modern porch. While a minimalist wreath graces the front door, the addition of white letters spelling out “fa la la” adds an extra touch that catches the eye and sparks festive cheer.

9. Go for Nostalgia

Explore the treasures of the past by repurposing vintage holiday decor. A vintage plastic Santa, reminiscent of old-school charm, can infuse a pop of color into a simple exterior, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

10. Add a Bell

Enhance your wreath by incorporating a vintage-inspired bell at its center. This addition not only provides a traditional look but also produces a delightful chime with each entry and exit, adding an auditory element to your holiday decor.

11. Throw in a Matching Rug

Extend your theme and color scheme beyond the wreath by incorporating matching elements throughout the front porch. A wreath adorned with red and silver accents complements the red plaid entryway rug, creating a cohesive and finished look for your front door.

12. Keep the Door Naked

Challenge the norm by forgoing decorations directly on your front door. Instead, focus on the surrounding space and adorn the area in front of your sidelights. A simple Christmas tree or DIY stacked faux presents can bring a traditional or inventive touch to your holiday decor.

Valentine’s Day: Opt for Potted Plants Over Cut Flowers

Receiving a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers can bring immediate joy, but the transient beauty of these blooms often leaves one with a sense of melancholy as they wither away within a week. To break free from this ephemeral cycle and offer a gift that lingers, consider choosing potted plants or flowers this Valentine’s Day.

Gardening expert Charlie Nardozzi suggests that potted plants provide a lasting reminder of the giver’s thoughtfulness and generosity, enduring for months or even years. This longevity not only adds value to the gift but also conveys a message of enduring love. Opting for potted plants goes beyond the fleeting nature of cut flowers, symbolizing a commitment to a long-lasting and meaningful relationship.

Cost-Effective Option:

Potted plants, especially flowering varieties like miniature roses, kalanchoe, or cyclamen, are a cost-effective alternative to traditional bouquets. While a dozen roses can be pricey, a potted plant offers an equally charming gesture at a fraction of the cost.

Stylish Décor Addition:

Potted plants contribute to your home’s aesthetic appeal. Whether adorning windowsills with succulents, suspending ferns from macrame hangers, or placing bold plants like palms or fiddle leaf figs in room corners, they effortlessly elevate your living space. The variety of beautiful pots available further enhances your décor.

Air Purification:

Beyond their visual appeal, potted plants actively contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Research indicates that living plants, such as bromeliads, can effectively remove common toxins and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, enhancing air quality in your home.

our Christmas tree is the centerpiece of holiday decor, and finding the perfect style can make your festive season even more magical. Whether you prefer a traditional look, a modern twist, or something entirely unique, here are 50 Christmas tree inspiration ideas to help you discover the perfect style for your holiday celebrations. From classic elegance to whimsical charm, there’s a tree style for every taste and preference. Let your tree reflect the magic of the season!

01. Paper Stars Magic

Embrace the whimsical charm of paper stars on your Christmas tree. Whether store-bought or DIY, these stars add a touch of Scandi-inspired elegance.

02. Simplicity Speaks Volumes

Opt for simplicity when decorating multiple Christmas trees. Designate one as the focal point with elaborate decorations, while others can shine with minimal adornments like string lights or a couple of ornaments.

03. Garland Delight

Garlands aren’t just for mantels. Introduce felt garlands to your Christmas tree for a playful and festive appearance, bringing joy to every corner of your space.

04. Marvelous Monochrome

Create a chic and elegant look by choosing a monochrome theme for your Christmas tree. Selecting decorations in a single color adds sophistication and a cohesive feel to your holiday decor.

05. Illuminated Elegance

For a serene and pared-down aesthetic, let the lights take center stage. Ditch the ornaments and allow the warm glow of lights to bring tranquility and festive charm to your Christmas tree.

06. Coordinated Garland Glamour

Achieve a harmonious holiday ambiance by coordinating your garland with your Christmas tree decorations. Consistency in flowers, stems, and ornaments, as demonstrated by Emily Henderson Design, creates a seamless and sophisticated look.

07. Embrace Simplicity with a Bare Tree

Challenge the traditional Christmas tree norm by going bare. A tree without lights or decorations can make a bold, modern statement, offering a minimalist and contemporary touch to your holiday decor.

08. Elevate with Texture

Enhance visual interest by incorporating texture into your Christmas tree. Use garlands as a means of introducing texture, and consider combining different garlands for a layered and dynamic effect.

09. Tabletop Tree Treasures

Extend the festive spirit beyond the main tree by incorporating tiny Christmas trees into various spaces. Utilize pots and vases to display branches, creating charming tabletop Christmas tree vignettes, as seen in Finding Lovely’s decor.

10. Silvertip Elegance

Embrace the trend of Silvertip Christmas trees for a unique and funky look. The sparse greenery and distinct appearance provide an ideal backdrop for showcasing favorite ornaments within the spaced-out branches, adding a touch of playful elegance.