How to decorate your house for Thanksgiving

Use a natural theme

This might seem like a no brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people spend big bucks trying to glitz up this holiday. It's about the harvest; being thankful for this beautiful earth we live on, and the wonderful food we are so blessed to be given, so let's celebrate that! It also happens to be a great way to decorate on a small budget! So bring nature into your home, and be thankful!

Most people just focus on the table for Thanksgiving decorating, and while that is indeed important, don't forget to bring the beauty of autumn splendor into other areas of your home.

5 easy fall decorating ideas

Garlands and swags

Pick up some silk garlands in autumn colors and drape them over doorways, windows, mantels and artwork or mirrors.

Autumn leaves

Collect leaves on your next walk in the neighborhood, and then press between paper towels and a book. Because they were already drying outdoors and were low on moisture, this will only take a few days! Now use your leaves to sprinkle over the hearth, the countertops, under candle displays, under glass top tables, tuck into picture frame edges, make them a picture in a frame ... you get the idea.

Gourds and pumpkins, anyone?

These are a wonderful traditional decoration, but here's a little money saving tip. If you have produce stands near your home, these are much cheaper than the grocery stores for gourds, squashes, and pumpkins.

Don't limit yourself to the little mini ones, pile full size versions next to your front door, line a windowsill, fill baskets or fill the planter boxes or a wheelbarrow on the porch with great harvest vegetables!

Treasure potpourri

Consider setting out simple ceramic or wooden bowls lined with a pretty cloth napkin or scrap fabric, and fill with some treasures from your next nature walk. Texture abounds with natural elements, and will warm up a tablescape, a coffee table and a fireplace hearth.

Festive candles

Try getting out the hot glue gun and affixing your items to the candles you packed away at the first sign of summer. Small glass jars make great votive holders when dressed up with a few pressed leaves and acorns.

Fill a bowl or plate with goodies around large pillar candles and use as a centerpiece. If you can't find enough natural material near your home, check out the bulk grain section at your supermarket. Fall is about harvest, so any grain can be used to add that element to your home. Even cracked corn meant for the bird feeder can look great in a jar as a base for a candle.

Next: 4 tips to make your Thanksgiving table extra-special