Written By : Hannah Corbett
November is here, and as the air gets crisp and the days grow shorter, it's officially time to cozy up our homes for Thanksgiving. It’s a season that often leaves me in a decor dilemma. I want to embrace the festive, warm vibes without rushing straight into Christmas with Santa. I was so inspired by watching the Martha Stewart documentary on Netflix recently, and I'm leaning fully into DIY this year. Creating a home that feels intentionally decorated and tailored for this in-between season. Martha’s ability to elevate the everyday (and her knack for transforming any space) makes it clear: DIY isn't just a project, it’s an art form that celebrates warmth and welcome.
In the spirit of November, I'm taking a page out of Meredith Hayden's book. You may know her from her incredible summers in the Hamptons as a private chef, or for her Bernese Mountain Dogs. Now that she’s bought a house there, she’s sharing all the dreamy farmhouse content, and her decorating approach is both natural and effortless—a classic vibe without being overdone. Inspired by her and by Kenzie Elizabeth’s videos and her brand, Friend of Mine, I’m focusing on those layered details that make a space feel polished yet inviting.
Some ways that I think I can incorporate Thanksgiving decor into my pre- Christmas aesthetic is starting with the heart of it all: the tablescape.
The Table: Layers of Texture
For a Thanksgiving tablescape that balances warmth with a hint of holiday spirit, I’m using simple garlands as my base. Dark green garlands draped across the table create a soft, organic anchor that I’ll dress up on Thanksgiving Day. I layer it with rich cranberry-colored ribbons (dark red instead of bright to keep it subtle and elegant). This color choice is versatile; you can add in vibrant oranges or earthy browns with mini pumpkins, dried leaves, or cranberries for a Thanksgiving look, and then easily swap them for winter whites and greens come December.
For a little added texture, I love incorporating rustic materials—wooden chargers, linen napkins, and ceramic plates in natural tones. Think earthy colors and natural fibers that make the table feel like a cozy, intimate gathering spot.
The Living Room: Softly Seasonal with Intentional Decor
I love how Meredith emphasizes less-is-more styling. To avoid the pumpkin overload that can sometimes feel too early for Thanksgiving, I’m focusing on layering plain garlands around the room, even some dried flowers. Paired with a few dark red and cranberry accents, this subtle look gives a nod to the season without jumping straight into fa la la.
I also like to add fairy lights to the garlands for a little twinkle that feels festive but still cozy. Later, as Thanksgiving approaches, I might tuck in a few natural accents like dried leaves, pinecones, or eucalyptus branches. It’s all about building the scene in phases, and adding little touches as the season progresses.
The Entryway and Kitchen: Understated Elegance
To make sure the entire house feels cohesive, I’m bringing the same soft layers into the entryway with the same garland and dark red ribbon. And for a warm welcome, I’m loving the idea of a simple wreath for the door with natural elements that I can refresh as we approach December. Instead of a traditional fall palette, I’m leaning on hints of cranberry, muted oranges, and dark greens.
Something I started doing two years ago was stringing dried oranges along my garland! It adds such a nice warm tone to the house and somehow they look sparkly. It’s so easy all you do is slice very thin pieces, toss them in the oven, grab some twine string, and they dry out and thin up even more. I take a sewing needle and poke it right through the oranges. I layer them on top of the garland, wreath and sometimes just as an accent next to a candle.
And, of course, the kitchen. Inspired by the natural, almost undone look that Meredith brings into her space, I keep the kitchen decor functional but festive. A bowl of seasonal fruit like pomegranates on the counter, or a few dried floral stems in a vase, gives it a hint of Thanksgiving warmth without taking up too much space.
Candles, Candles, Candles:
Finally, candles are pretty much an essential. There’s no such thing as too many candles. Every target and HomeGoods run you can get a candle. They’ll never go to waste. For this pre-winter aesthetic, I go with warm, spicy scents like cedar, clove, or vanilla. They bring a gentle holiday feel without overpowering Thanksgiving’s quieter warmth. Candles add ambiance but can also double as decor pieces on the table or scattered throughout the house which is always nice.
By decorating in stages and keeping it progressive, you get the best of both worlds—warm, welcoming spaces that are just right for November, and an easy transition to December!
Happy Decorating!