10 Easy Friendsgiving Table Setting Decorating Ideas Anyone Can Recreate
Every November, I look forward to one of my favorite traditions—Friendsgiving. There’s something so warm and special about gathering with chosen family, sharing laughter, and enjoying good food around a beautifully set table. As a party planner, I’ve seen firsthand how the right tablescape can transform a simple dinner into an unforgettable celebration.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune or be a professional decorator to pull it off. With the right friendsgiving table setting decorating ideas, you can create a space that feels both cozy and stylish, whether your vibe is minimalist, elegant, cute, or even a little pink and playful.
In this blog post, I’ll share 10 easy ideas anyone can recreate—plus a few of my go-to product recommendations I personally love. Some of these ideas I’ve used in my own home, and others I’ve planned for clients. Either way, they’re tried-and-true ways to impress your guests this season.
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Idea 1: Kraft Paper Table Runner with Handwritten Notes
One of the easiest yet most impactful Friendsgiving ideas I’ve ever used involves kraft paper (or even simple brown paper). Roll it out as a table runner and set out markers or pens. Throughout the evening, encourage guests to write what they’re thankful for right on the paper.
This trick is genius because:
- It’s disposable, so cleanup is a breeze.
- It’s simple and budget-friendly.
- It doubles as a meaningful memory you’ll cherish.
I did this last year at my own Friendsgiving dinner, and by the end of the night the paper was covered in doodles, notes, and heartfelt messages. It became the perfect keepsake.
Idea 2: Minimalist Black & White Tablescape
If you prefer a clean, chic look, you can’t go wrong with a minimalist black and white tablescape. Pair black plates with crisp white napkins, then add some greenery or small pumpkins to tie it back to the season.
The contrast feels modern yet still works beautifully for a fall party. When I styled this look for a client, she told me it made her small apartment feel like a chic restaurant. Minimal effort, maximum impact!
Idea 3: Elegant Napkin Folding for Formal Dinner Vibes
Never underestimate the power of a napkin. A folded napkin instantly elevates any setting, even if you’re using disposable plates. Try folding napkins into a pocket shape and tucking in a cinnamon stick or a sprig of rosemary.
This is a small detail that makes your Friendsgiving feel like a formal dinner without all the stress. Plus, your table will have that autumn-themed aroma of cinnamon and herbs floating through the air.
Idea 4: Cute Mason Jar Centerpieces
Mason jars are a party planner’s best friend. You can fill them with fairy lights, acorns, or dried flowers and scatter them along your long table as centerpieces.
They’re inexpensive, versatile, and perfect for a cute and cozy aesthetic. One year, I even had guests take the jars home as little favors. It was such a hit because it felt personal and practical.
Idea 5: Outdoor Autumn-Themed Dinner Setup
If you’re lucky with weather, consider hosting your Friendsgiving outdoor. A backyard picnic or patio gathering feels magical when paired with string lights, cozy blankets, and candles.
I once planned an outdoor autumn-themed dinner under a canopy of twinkle lights, and let me tell you—it looked straight out of Pinterest. Everyone loved the relaxed vibe, and the crisp air made the food taste even better.
Idea 6: Disposable Yet Chic Tableware
Here’s a secret: disposable tableware doesn’t have to look cheap. These days, you can find eco-friendly options that look just as nice as ceramic plates. Pair them with kraft paper placemats for a rustic-chic look.
This is my go-to option when hosting a larger Friendsgiving, because trust me—after cooking all day, no one wants to deal with mountains of dirty dishes.
Product Recommendation #1: Elegant Disposable Dinnerware Set
If you want to skip the dishes but still keep your Friendsgiving classy, I recommend this elegant disposable dinnerware set from Amazon. It comes with sturdy black and gold plates, matching cups, and utensils that actually look high-end.
Why I love it:
- Super durable (no soggy plates here!)
- Elegant design that matches almost any tablescape
- Enough pieces for large groups
Trust me, your guests will never guess these are disposable.
Grab the set on Amazon here and save yourself from post-dinner cleanup stress!
Idea 7: Pink & Neutral Aesthetic Table Setting
For something unique, blend soft pink tones with neutral colors like beige, cream, or brown paper. Add rose-gold accents to keep the vibe grown-up and stylish.
I actually styled a pink-and-neutral aesthetic tablescape for a client’s Friendsgiving brunch, and it was so refreshing compared to the usual earthy tones. It felt whimsical yet still elegant.
Idea 8: DIY Leaf & Pumpkin Centerpieces
This is one of the most simple and budget-friendly ideas out there. Collect colorful leaves, pinecones, and mini pumpkins, then arrange them in trays or bowls down the center of your table.
It’s rustic, natural, and perfectly autumn-themed. I love this idea because it makes your table look abundant without spending much at all.
Product Recommendation #2: Artificial Fall Leaf Garland with Lights
If you don’t have time to collect leaves, this artificial fall leaf garland with built-in fairy lights is a lifesaver. I’ve used it multiple times for events when I need quick, reliable decor.
Why I love it:
- Instant fall party vibes
- Built-in lights add a cozy glow
- Reusable for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, and beyond
Add this garland to your table for a gorgeous centerpiece that looks like you spent hours decorating. Get yours on Amazon here
.Idea 9: Layered Long Table Decor for Big Gatherings
If you’re hosting a big group, chances are you’ll have a long table. To avoid it looking too flat, layer your decor: use candles of varying heights, leafy garlands, and scattered pumpkins.
I planned a 25-person Friendsgiving last year with this method, and the table looked like something straight out of a magazine spread. Everyone had a photo-op moment.
Idea 10: Minimalist Outside Picnic Style Friendsgiving
Want something more relaxed? Try a picnic-style Friendsgiving outside. Lay down blankets, use a brown paper tablecloth, and set up floor cushions. Add lanterns and candles for that cozy, cute vibe.
This is one of my favorite ways to celebrate with friends in a casual setting. It’s budget-friendly, Instagram-worthy, and so comfortable that everyone lingers long after dinner.
Product Recommendation #3: Outdoor String Lights
Nothing sets the mood for an outdoor Friendsgiving dinner quite like string lights. These warm white outdoor string lights from Amazon are my personal go-to.
Why I love them:
- Weatherproof and durable
- Creates a magical, cozy glow
- Perfect for backyard parties, patios, or balconies
If you want to instantly elevate your outdoor tablescape, get these outdoor string lights here
Trust me, you’ll use them for every gathering!
Wrapping It Up
The beauty of Friendsgiving is that it doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to feel like you. Whether you lean toward simple kraft paper runners, elegant folded napkins, minimalist black-and-white vibes, or cute mason jar centerpieces, the best friendsgiving table setting decorating ideas are the ones that make your friends feel welcomed and loved.
Personally, I’ve found that mixing a few disposable items with thoughtful touches (like handwritten notes on brown paper or autumn-themed centerpieces) strikes the perfect balance between effort and ease.
So, as you start planning your Friendsgiving this year, ask yourself: Do I want formal or casual? Indoors or outdoor? Elegant or minimalist? Then take one or two of these ideas and run with them.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the decor—it’s about creating memories around the table. And with these tips, your Friendsgiving dinner will be as unforgettable as the friendships you’re celebrating.