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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at DU chapter.

Thanksgiving is a time when loved ones gather together and celebrate the joys of the year. There is a lot that goes into pulling off the perfect Thanksgiving dinner. It can be a stressful time, especially if you are the one hosting the festivities. However, there is no need to worry, we got you covered with five of this season’s best holiday diys. This way you can prepare for the big day while having some fun too!

1. Welcome Wreaths

During Thanksgiving week people probably come in and out of your house like crazy. What better way to welcome them than with a wreath? Wreaths are an easy way to spruce up your holdiay house. Your wreath can be silly or it can be classy, the choice is yours! Most wreaths are very simple to make, just stop by your local craft store and go wild! This one uses a wooden base, felt, and a whole lot of tulle.

2. Themed Mini Treats

Some say the best things come in small pacakages. That’s definitely the truth with these sweet little treats. If you want to entertain the kids at the party or feel like taking a break from the pumpkin pies, these adorable snacks will make you want to gobble gobble gobble all the way home. To make all five of these desserts you will need mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Oreos, candy corn, sugar cones, pretzels, chocolate sauce, Hershey kisses, Nutter Butters, and marshmallows. Get creative and come up with some of your own too!  

3. Bring Nature to Your Table

Setting the perfect Thanksgiving table is always a big deal. You want something that screams fall while still leaving room for all the dinner goodies. These painted pumpkins are just what you’ve been looking for. That’s right, pumpkins are not just for carving or putting in that pie you know you’re going to enjoy on the 26th, they can also make great center pieces. You can use real pumpkins or fake ones. Once you’ve found your favorite one, you can paint it gold (guaranteed to make a statement piece) or use black paint to create a chalkboard effect. White paint can be used to write what’s on the menu for the night (something your guests will greatly appreciate). 

4.  The Gratitude Frame

Although food is a big and delicious part of Thanksgiving, it is important to remember that this is a time to be thankful. That is why a gratitude frame might be a new tradition you want to start in your family. To make the gratitude frame all you need is a box frame and some pieces of paper. Of course, you can dress up your frame with letters or shiny paint to make it personal and special. Once you have your frame, set it out at Thanksgiving dinner and have everyone take a slip of paper and write down what they are thankful for. Once they do this they can slip it in the frame and voila you have something to hang on your wall that will remind you to be thankful each day. 

5. Share the Love

While you and your family will be indulging in turkey dreams there may be some members of the fam who are feeling left out. What about the puppies? Not to worry, this year your sweet companions will get to celebrate Turkey day with you. Follow this link to learn how to make some delicious and healthy treats for your doggy friends. http://www.crayonsandcollars.com/homemade-pumpkin-pie-dog-treats/#_a5y_p=2789406

Hopefully these give you some good ideas to go out and make your Thanksgiving as creative and affordable as possible! 

Born and Raised in Colorado, Annie is currently pursuing a degree in Journalism from the University of Denver. She enjoys writing and reading in coffee houses, binge watching Food Network, traveling and learning to love the imperfections.