How to Create a Dreamy Tablescape on a Budget

I’m sure I’m not the only one who has repeatedly searched for “pretty tablescape” on Pinterest only to find myself pinning photos that seem a bit unrealistic to actually create myself. These photos are amazing for inspiration, but let’s be real – A $200 floral arrangement for my family’s Thanksgiving dinner isn’t really in the cards.

Meal time and food in general has always been an important part of my life. I love that meals are not just a time to gain sustenance, but to unwind and chat with the people in your life. I also love that by creating a beautiful space, you are contributing to the way someone feels while they’re enjoying a meal around the table. I think the official term for this is “ambiance,” but I won’t get too fancy around here 🙂

With the holidays right around the corner, I’m sharing 5 tips for creating an affordable, breathtaking tablescape for you and your guests!

1. Pick Out Your Tablecloth or Runner First

The tablecloth or table runner takes up the most space on a table, which means it will likely be the first thing that catches someone’s eye. Once you find whatever you are going to use for this, you can then choose items that complement it well. Here are some budget-friendly options:

• • Table cloths or large pieces of fabric from a thrift store (The burnt orange one in these photos was $3 at the Goodwill)

• • Fabric from a crafting store like Joanne’s or Hobby Lobby

• • Curtains. Yes, Curtains! With the right kind of fabric, bunched up curtains make for a beautiful runner.

• • Marshalls, TJMaxx or Homegoods is always an affordable option if you can’t find anything that you like secondhand.

2. Incorporate Pieces from Nature

This is a bit easier to do in the spring and summer time when the forest is lush and the roadsides are bursting with color, but it’s possible at any time of the year. Take a walk around your backyard or neighborhood and keep an eye out for leaves, branches, flowers, and herbs that might complement your table well. My go-to items at this time of year are:

• • Pinecones

• • Pine tree branches

• • Goldenrod 

• • Marigolds

• • Wood slabs cut from trees

3. Antique Stores and Thrift Shops are Your Friend

I may be a bit biased here because there is nothing I love more than secondhand treasure hunting, but I assure you that even if you’re not really into old things, you will still find a bargain on many items that will make your tablescape so timeless and beautiful. Here are a few of my favorite secondhand finds:

• • Vintage apothecary bottles for vases

• • Baskets for bread, tapas, etc.

• • Wooden cutting boards

• • Unique plates, glasses, and cutlery 

• • Candle holders 

• • Serving dishes

Fun Fact! 

I’ve been collecting vintage brass taper candle holders for the past few years! I just love how well they complement almost every color/vibe. So far, I have about 10!

4. Use Varying Heights to Add Dimension 

To add a bit of texture to your table, be sure to incorporate items that are not the same height. My favorite ways to do this are with:

• • Taper candles set in different kinds of holders

• • Elevating the charcuterie board or other tapas

• • Cutting flowers at different lengths and using different kinds of vases to showcase them

5. Set the Mood with Candles and Flowers

Taper candles are my absolute favorite. There is something so elegant and classic about a simple taper candle that makes guests feel special and relaxed. Taper candles are surprisingly a bit of a challenge to find. I usually have luck at Target.com or Amazon.

Of course, every tablescape needs some stems. If I can’t find any floating around the yard, my go-to spot is Trader Joe’s. They have floral bunches starting at $3.99 and most bunches do not exceed $10. If you’re planning a particularly special event, you can also consider reaching out to a local florist to see if they can put something together for you. 

This makes me so excited for all things Thanksgiving and Christmas! If you in the midst of planning an event of your own, be sure to check out our Special Event Planning services. We would love to be a part of whatever it is that you’re celebrating!

Cheers to the best time of the year, friends!