Last Minute Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas

Today, we’re sharing last minute Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas!

The transition from Fall to Thanksgiving is always an interesting one, right? It seems like it should be rather seamless given pumpkins, leaves, acorns, branches, plaids and mums are all plentiful.

If you start decorating in September, you’re probably ready to pack “all things fall” away and start getting ready for Christmas.

However, if you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or have company coming from out of town that notion can be easier said than done.

Thanksgiving Decorating vs Christmas Planning

Several weeks ago I was helping my mom give her home office at Bliss Barracks a refresh and to start planning for Christmas. My dad came out to the lanai where we were gabbing and said, “You guys look like you’re in a Christmas Think Tank” which gave me the giggles.

Once I got home, I asked my Instagram friends if they had started planning yet and the responses were so funny.  I guess the middle of October does seem a bit early.

But the planning stage is always fun…

We had to pack up all of our fall decorations and everything on the porch when Hurricane Matthew blew through earlier last month.

I haven’t decided if I want to take it all out again or go ahead and bring the Christmas decorations now.  I might do a “transitional mix” since I don’t believe in skipping over holidays, especially holidays that are focused on giving.

You might find yourself in a similar situation.

Maybe you have an idea of how you’ll be spending Thanksgiving. Perhaps you’re waiting on a family member to confirm their travel plans.

Whatever stage you find yourself in at the beginning of this holiday season, here’s a bit of inspiration for you. Especially, if you’re working on last minute decorating ideas…

The Porch

Give your family and guests a greeting they will remember!

The Mantel

Framed photographs, feathers, vintage silver and pewter are all budget friendly items. You can usually find them at antique stores, charity shops, estate sales and thrift stores.

The Dining Room

Layer textures, dress up your casual or formal place settings. Use seasonal food items from the grocery to make a high impact.

The Breakfast Area

Repeat elements from one room to the next. Especially, if you have an open concept home. This will help keep your spaces/style consistent.

Thanksgiving Touches in the Kitchen

You’ll probably be doing a lot of cooking in the kitchen over the holiday.  Keep the Thanksgiving decorating ideas simple. That way,  you’re not moving vignettes every time you need to use to kitchen appliances.

Back Patio

Celebrate your outdoor spaces especially if you live in a mild climate. Set up a s’mores area. Eat Thanksgiving outside or offer a place for your guests to relax and get some fresh air.

Keep in Mind

Just a gentle reminder, the people that are coming to your home want to enjoy YOU!

They want to spend time catching up, cooking or baking in the kitchen, or just relaxing with a gingerbread latte.  It can be easy to get caught up in trying to have the perfect home.

I promise they want your time (read undivided attention) more than a sleeve of chocolates. Although, chocolates do go a long way in making someone feel special.

Plan as much as you can ahead of time.  Be prepared as you can for those moments when something goes awry (because it will) or someone says something off color (because they will).

Then let it all go and truly enjoy those you have gathered around you.

See you guys back here tomorrow, I’ll share a super simple place card idea that can take you from Thanksgiving to Christmas with little fuss. Until then, I’ll see you on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

Many blessings,

CoCo