Want to pull together a tablescape without fuss or muss…one that’s festive and fun, yet one on which you didn’t have to spend an hour? The tablescape in this post was pulled together in literally five minutes. For sure, you will find more ornate, over-the-top tablescapes online, should you wish to go in that direction (and some occasions call for it), but if you’re just looking to add a bit of seasonal flair, read on!

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase through those links, I make a small commission without it costing you any extra.

1. Chargers to the Rescue – start with a base for your plates that adds a bit of detail or texture to your table. This little bit of interest goes a long way. Chargers can be found online like these or these relatively inexpensively. You can find them at the dollar  or thrift store and even paint them a custom color, if needed. Spray paint will do the trick, but one of my favorite paints to use is chalk paint for a variety of reasons.  Finally, if you or someone you know is handy with a saw, you can cut your own wooden slice chargers like these.
   

   The stacked cups remind me of the “mad tea party” in Alice in Wonderland. Is it just me?

2. Love the Layers – It’s true about the charges and plates, but don’t limit yourself there. More layers add more texture, which is pleasing to the eye and creates more interest. Where else might you add more texture and visual intrigue include…using a few coordinating napkins, mixing and matching your plates, using a tablecloth, table runner and even coordinating fabric that you can bunch up on the table. Think outside of the home decor aisle. Let your imagination go wild and bring in elements that fit with your theme.   And, don’t be afraid to mix up the fabrics!
3. Centerpiece – Your centerpiece need not be just one item (though it can be, if that’s the look you are going for). Think collections of things that coordinate. They don’t have to be matchy-matchy, just be related enough to make sense. Remember, beauty is in the eye of the beholder…and it runs the gamut. Do what pleases you and makes sense to you. Here, I’ve used a hammered aluminum tray to serve as a base for my entire centerpiece. If you’re looking for a vintage tray of your own, check out our shop HERE to see if one fills your needs! 
4. Variation in Heights – Pay attention to variation in height when it comes to arranging your items. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different arrangements until you get the look you like. Think like party designers…and use small pedestals, cake plates and other items to provide height here and there in your arrangement. In this quick tablescape, I used clay pots for visual interest and height.
5. Fill’er Up – Don’t be afraid to tilt things on their sides, stack things or add bits and bobbles as filler! Think floral stems and greenery and other floral decor that you can fill in gaps and openings with. My mums are actually tilted on their sides…and look like they are spilling out of their pots. This allows more of the color to show, and just a hint of the clay pot.

BONUS TIP: Let Mother Nature Help: If you are on a budget, and even if you’re not…step outside your front door and gather up some twigs, branches, pine cones and such and create a natural display! Just make sure to inspect and give your natural elements a bit of a soak. You don’t want any uninvited dinner guests! YIKES!

And there you have it! A quick, 5-minute fall tablescape that adds just a bit of festivity.

What’s your favorite way to add interest to your tablescape?

Here’s to joy,