3 Fall Tabletop Decorating Tips

Fall decorated table with a candle centerpiece and people gathered around eating dinner

Create a welcoming fall tablescape with simple ideas that set a harvest time tone for holiday dinner parties.

Create a center stage centerpiece

Bring the colors of the season to your table by lining up multi-hued ears of Indian corn in a shallow bowl or vase. Then surround the bowl with dried grasses wrapped in ribbon for added texture. To add a warm glow, place dark red votive candles inside vases or hurricanes and fill with dried kidney beans to the height of each votive.

Use your napkin

For a napkin fold that fits perfectly onto the dinner plate, start with an 18"to 22"square pressed-cloth napkin in a color that complements the centerpiece. Fold the napkin into thirds from one side to the other side, and then fold this strip into thirds from top to bottom. Turn back an open corner to form a pocket and position the napkin on the plate with the folded edge facing the front.

Play with place cards

To make a place card that stands on its own, cut 3"squares from heavy paper or card stock in color that complements your tablescape. Fold the square in half diagonally and write each name so that the tip of the triangle points up. Finish by tucking the bottom tip of the card under your folded napkin so it'll stand up on its own. For a little extra detail, punch a hole in the top corner of the card, insert raffia or a ribbon, then tie and trim the ends.