We love hosting our friends and family any time of year, but especially over the holidays! There’s nothing better than slowing down to celebrate friendship with your nearest and dearest over a good meal and homemade pie. And let’s be real, Friendsgiving is truly the official kick-off to the holiday season, so there is little not to love about this very special holiday!

Over the years and many parties, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that have made putting together tablescapes feel like a breeze instead of chore. When you are busy in the kitchen making sure the meal turns out, the last thing you need to be worried about is the decor.

I use these five rules below as a guideline when I’m setting my tables for any party. Instead of a chore, it’s become the fun preamble to the main event. Hopefully these tips will help you as you put together a special Friendsgiving that your BFFs won’t forget!

5 Tablesetting Tips

1. Flowers: This is an easy one! Fresh flowers make a world of a difference. Whether you are a snipping some greenery from your yard, picking up a bundle from the bodega, or ordering in something fancy. You can never go wrong with fresh flowers!
2. Texture: I say, the more texture the better! Like this woven table runner and these linen napkins. Adding in texture will make your space feel interesting and give the table depth.
3. Ambiance: Candles, candles, and MORE candles! Using tea lights or filling beautiful vases like this one, can make a huge difference in the atmosphere. Also, I’ve noticed that people tend to stay at the table longer when there are candles… it relaxes everyone and keeps the conversation going!
4. Personalization: Whether it’s a handmade place card, or a little daisy tucked into the napkins, a little thoughtfulness goes a long way!
5. Comfort: Last but certainly not least! When looking for a dining room table I had two things in mind: comfort and size. I wanted the table to fit into the room design, sure… but more than that, I want my dinner guests to be able to comfortably cross their legs under the table and be able to cut food without elbowing each other! It seems like a tall order, but this table from Home Decorators Collection was exactly we were looking for!

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