How to Decorate Your Thanksgiving Table Like Martha Stewart (without spending like her)

Get some Martha into your Thanksgiving life without the high price tag.

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Let’s be real: Martha Stewart’s Thanksgiving table setups are gorgeous AF. But who’s got the budget to recreate her tablescapes down to every custom detail? This Thanksgiving, we’re channeling Martha’s iconic style with budget-savvy hacks, smart DIYs, and a bit of creativity to create a table that looks high-end without the BS price tag. Here’s how to make it happen.

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Step 1:

Start with a Statement Centerpiece (That Doesn’t Break the Bank)

A killer centerpiece sets the vibe for your Thanksgiving table, but that doesn’t mean you need to splurge on a floral masterpiece. Go for an autumnal theme with natural, inexpensive elements.

• DIY Pumpkin Centerpiece: Pick up a few mini pumpkins and gourds from the grocery store, arrange them in a cluster on the table, and add a few fall leaves or sprigs of eucalyptus. If you want a pop of glam, spray-paint a couple of the pumpkins in metallic gold or silver.
• Candleholders: Add texture and warmth to your centerpiece with these Rustic Candleholders $15.99. Set a few of them around your table settings for a sophisticated glow.

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Step 2:

Layer Your Table Linens Like a Pro

Martha’s table settings always look so rich and textured, thanks to her layering technique. Start with a neutral or earthy tablecloth, then add a runner or placemats in a contrasting color.

• Tablecloth: A linen or cotton tablecloth in white or beige looks high-end and goes with anything. This Simple Linen Tablecloth $26.99 is a great budget-friendly pick.
• Table Runner: Add an autumnal runner like this Burlap Table Runner $21.90 for a rustic touch. Lay it across the table and let it hang over the sides for a dramatic effect.

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Step 3:

Elevate Your Place Settings with Personal Touches

This is where we’re bringing in the charm. A personalized touch at each place setting makes your guests feel special, and it doesn’t take much to make it happen.

• DIY Napkin Rings: Use twine or ribbon to wrap around cloth napkins and tie a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick on each one. Cheap, easy, and smells amazing.
• Printable Place Cards: Use free online templates to print out custom place cards. A handwritten name adds an extra warm touch—no fancy calligraphy skills needed.
• Cloth Napkins: These Reusable Cloth Napkins $19.99 (or $9.99 if on sale) will instantly dress up your table and give off those “I totally planned this” vibes.

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Step 4:

Swap Fancy Plates for Smart Layers

Martha may have her fancy china, but we can achieve the same elegant effect with simple, layered plates.

• Charger Plates: Place a charger under each dinner plate for added dimension. These Gold Charger Mats $18.99 give a classy look without costing a ton.
• White Dinner Plates: White plates are super versatile and let the rest of your table decor shine. Plus, you can use them for any occasion, not just Thanksgiving. This Set of White Plates $39.95 is affordable and chic.

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Step 5:

Use Seasonal Produce as Decor

Decorating with fresh produce is one of the easiest ways to bring color and texture to the table. Plus, it’s cheap and can double as post-Thanksgiving cooking ingredients!

• Seasonal Produce Arrangement: Arrange pears, apples, mini pumpkins, or pomegranates along the center of the table, or scatter them around the centerpiece. A few of these items in a Decorative Wooden Bowl $17.89 can make a stunning display.
• Mini Gourds and Corn: Scatter mini gourds, decorative corn, and acorns around the table for added color and texture.

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Step 6:

Add Twinkle Lights for a Magical Touch

To get that warm, inviting glow that Martha always seems to nail, add a strand or two of fairy lights around your centerpiece or weave them through the decor along the length of the table.

• Fairy Lights: These Battery-Operated Fairy Lights $6.99 are perfect for creating an intimate, cozy feel without taking up much space. Bonus: They’re battery-operated, so no messy cords!

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Step 7:

Go Green with Some Fresh Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a super affordable way to bring in a touch of green, and it looks chic AF when paired with candles or pumpkins.

• Eucalyptus Garland: This Fresh Eucalyptus Garland $16.99 can be draped along the center of the table or used in small sprigs at each place setting for an organic, earthy vibe. It’s subtle but elegant, and the scent is an added bonus.

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Key Takeaway

Decorating your Thanksgiving table like Martha Stewart doesn’t have to mean spending like her. By using a few smart DIYs, affordable decor elements, and a little creativity, you can achieve a table setup that’s every bit as impressive. This year, show off a Thanksgiving table that’s rich in style and charm, without the hefty price tag. Happy (and budget-savvy) decorating!

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