5 Decor Essentials for Thanksgiving Entertaining

Create an inviting entrance to your home when you begin with a front door that celebrates the harvest season. Let guests know they're truly welcome by swapping out your everyday door mat with a fun fall-themed mat. Want to add more festive touches? Supplement live pumpkins and mums with garlands, topiaries and wreaths in rich reds and oranges.

Whether you prefer to go all out with pumpkins and all things fall or you opt to put a modern twist on traditional, a styled table is a great way to up the ante for Thanksgiving dinner. Make simple placecards for each guest, break out the formal dinnerware, but balance it out with a centerpiece that nods to the harvest season.

With the change in season comes changes in weather. Make sofas, loveseats and other seating areas of your home even more welcoming by adding plush throw pillows and cozy blankets. Not only do these pieces add an extra layer of warmth to a room, they invite any and every member of the family to relax after the feast.

What's better than a roaring fire on a cool autumn night? A well-dressed mantel to frame it, of course. Decking out your mantel with candles, garland and wreaths in the shades of fall foliage helps make any living room or family room more inviting.

Taking in a little fresh fall air in the backyard is a great way to unwind. Bring out the lawn games, serve dessert on the patio and light up the fire pit to keep everyone cozy while you have great conversation.