A beautifully designed table makes an event feel unique and memorable. It takes a dinner that may otherwise feel ordinary and turns it into something more. If you find yourself in hosting mode during the fall months, whether it’s for the holidays or gatherings with family and friends, then you’ll want to check out our fall table decor tips.

Table Decor Advice

Before we get into our decor ideas for fall, we want to cover some general table-setting tips, for any season or occasion.

Select a Theme

Ask yourself, what’s the theme of your table design? This is especially important if you’re having trouble deciding what direction to go in.

The theme can be based on a color palette, a single decorative item, or the event you’re hosting. You can also turn the general aesthetic into a theme, like rustic, farmhouse, or bohemian-inspired.

Think about what will represent your personality, interests, and the event. Don’t skip this step because it’ll help you create a cohesive look from start to finish.

Consider the Style of Your Home

If your home is modern and minimal, then a french country-inspired table setting might look a little off. That’s why when planning your table decor you’ll want to think about what will work with the style of your home and furnishings.

Even if the event is outdoors it should still work with the surroundings.

Think about the current design elements of the space like

The color scheme
Objects and materials
Furniture and decorative accents

For example, if you have a beautiful natural wood dining table, then you’ll want to plan a table setting that’ll enhance it, not clash with it.

Play With Layers

Layering is a great way to create a beautiful table setting. There are so many ways you can have fun with layers.

Think about layering linens, like a runner, tablecloth, and napkins in different colors, patterns, or materials. You can create a beautiful layered place setting with a charger or placemat, plates, and glassware. Or maybe you’d like to make a stunning centerpiece with layered decorative elements.

Mixing and matching different textures and visual elements is a great way to add dimensions and interest to your table decor.

Keep It Simple

Creating a layered setting can be stunning, but sometimes a simple pared-down look is just as beautiful. If you’re a minimalist then a simple centerpiece with no frills may be the best way to go.

Or skip the centerpiece altogether and let your dinnerware and glassware shine with some elegant candles.

Be Mindful of Guests

You want your table setting to be beautiful and help create a special atmosphere for your guests, but you don’t want it to be so over the top that it prevents them from enjoying themselves.

You’ll want to make sure they have enough space to sit and eat comfortably, and that your table

decorations aren’t so tall that people can’t see over them. The goal is for your table decor to enhance the event, not overwhelm it.

Table Decor Ideas for Fall

Now that we’ve covered the basic do’s and don’ts of planning a table setting, let's dive into our favorite ideas for creating a beautiful fall-inspired tablescape.

Fall Florals

Floral arrangements make for classic table decor. Embrace the season by elevating your table with beautiful fall flowers.

Think hues in a range of oranges, reds, and yellows. If those colors don’t work for your space, you can make any floral arrangement feel more fall-inspired by mixing in dried flowers with fresh ones or taking a soft and pale arrangement and adding more brown and deep green colors.

If you live in the Hudson Valley, then you’ll want to check out Athabold and Hops Petunia for beautiful fall floral arrangements.

Fall Branches and Leaves

To put a new spin on the traditional floral arrangement, think about incorporating fall foliage and branches instead.

Welcome the change of seasons with striking golden or crimson leaves. You can keep them on the branch and place a grouping in a vase or remove them from the branch and lay them across your table.

If you don’t have access to the real thing, there are some great realistic-looking faux options you can use and save for next year.

Fall Fruits and Veggies

Another twist on the classic floral arrangement is decorating with autumn fruits and veggies. Think pumpkins, gourds, acorns, oranges, apples, dried corn, pomegranates, and persimmons. These can be displayed directly on the table, on a cake stand, or in bowls.

If you already keep a decorative bowl on your table, then a simple way to freshen up the decor is to swap out the contents with seasonal accents.

Candles

As we get into the cooler months, nothing says cozy and intimate more than beautiful candles. Ditch the traditional floral centerpiece and go for a grouping of candles instead. Or incorporate candles with your flowers and greenery.

Show off a Collection

If you’re a collector of decorative objects then a table setting may be a great opportunity to show them off. For example, antique bowls or vases can be displayed with fall florals, leaves, or other accents. Or cute figurines can be incorporated into your table decor.

Have fun with the process and trust your instincts to create beautiful fall-inspired table settings.

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