13 Classy DIYs for Great Autumn Entertaining

Smell that? That’s crisp, cool air, ripe apples, and pumpkin spice lattes. See that? It’s the first red leaf on your backyard tree. Autumn is here, baby, and that means it’s time to start entertaining! 

It seems that as soon as September comes around, the invitations start flying: Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dinner, fall weddings, early Christmas parties, and so on. As much as we love it, each gathering adds a little more to the expenses — and those can really add up by the time the snow is falling. So get out your DIY hat, because I’ve got a bushel of projects you can try that will save you a little money and help you throw the best party in town!

1. Make a customizable acorn wreath.

It’ll take a bit of time to place all the acorns on this wreath, but the results are worth it. The effect is simple and elegant, and by changing the rope it hangs from and by applying a coat of spray paint, you can theme it to any event you wish! Store it for the winter, spray it blue, and you have a new look for spring!

2. Or hang one with flowers in seasonal colors.

This wreath takes only five minutes to put together and looks like a million bucks!

3. Help everyone find their seat.

If your dinner is formal enough to merit a seating plan, but you don’t want it to feel stuffy, these mini pumpkin place cards may be the perfect thing! The calligraphy brings a touch of elegance to the whimsy of the pumpkins, and — of course — the glitter stems bring the bling.