How I’ll Host Friendsgiving for 15 People with a $52 Decor Budget (Including Plates, a Centerpiece, Even a Photo Backdrop!)

Throwing a beautifully decorated Friendsgiving can seem like a stretch for a college student with limited funds. But as the go-to decorator in my friend group, I’ve learned how to make magic happen without breaking the bank. This year, I managed to plan a festive and cozy setup for about 15 people — for about $50. Here’s how you can create a beautiful Friendsgiving display on a budget, too, no matter where you shop or what you already own!

When planning your Friendsgiving decor, focus on the essentials. I think every Friendsgiving should involve:

1. Tableware: I look for plates, utensils, and napkins that match the theme.
2. A centerpiece: I go for something simple yet eye-catching.
3. Extra decor: As in, seasonal items like pumpkins, flameless candles, or signs.
4. Personal touches: Details like handwritten cards, bows, or place cards.
5. A photo moment: A small, DIY backdrop or corner for cute Friendgiving pictures.

This year, I’m going for a traditional theme — classic fall colors like deep oranges, warm browns, and rich golds, paired with timeless elements like pumpkins and pine cones. I got incredibly lucky with a sale at Michaels, where Thanksgiving decor was discounted 50%-80%. Here’s what I picked up:

• 40-count set of plates: $15.99
• Gold utensils (similar item): $5.99
• “Thankful” sign: $1.99
• Festive fringe decor: $4.99
• Pine cones (similar item): $3.50
• Turkey honeycomb decor piece: $4.99
• Napkins (similar item): $2
• Table runner (similar item): $0.50 (Yes, I know!)
• Faux pumpkins (similar item): $2
• Faux florals (similar item): $2 each (I got three.)

After all my shopping, my grand total came to $51.88 (including tax)! I saved $76.53 thanks to the incredible deals I found.

Don’t worry if you’re not as lucky with discounts, though — stores like Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Walmart can still help you achieve a similar look on a budget. You’d be amazed at how affordable and adorable some of their seasonal decor options are!

Using your creativity is absolutely the way to make your Friendsgiving decor feel unique. Here are some easy tricks to amp up your decor and add a personal touch:

Of course, you can and should also get inventive with items you already own! For example, I reused pumpkins from my fall decorations to add more details to my tablescape.

Handwritten thank-you cards or place cards can make your table feel more thoughtful and personal.

You could tie bows on your flameless candles, cups, or chairs for a chic, more customized look.

Combine decor from different stores or a bunch of thrifted items for a one-of-a-kind vibe. For example, I’m using the cups I already own even though they don’t all match. 

Use leftover fringe, faux florals, or even string lights to design a simple photo backdrop your guests will love.

Decorating for Friendsgiving doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By combining a few new items and a whole lot of creativity, you can make your space festive and inviting — no matter your college student budget. The thing that matters most is creating memories with your chosen family, and cute personal touches will make your Friendsgiving unforgettable.