With Thanksgiving looming and December close behind, we’re completely consumed with finding creative and inexpensive ways to make our homes festive. In the fall, it’s easy to decorate "green" with natural elements lying just outside our doors – it is as simple as picking up some colored leaves.

Specialty caterers and event planners are also taking cues from nature to make their centerpieces. Find inspiration from planners like Blue Plate in Chicago, who use designs like this beautiful log centerpiece from floral designer A. Vision. Local and sustainable, environmentally conscious decorations also gives everyone a break from turkey/pilgrim figurine overload.

Rachel