HGTV designers share on-trend Thanksgiving tips for that 5-star experience

What we're hearing: This fall "it is all about ornamental fungi," Bynum says. For an on-trend tablescape, use your uncarved pumpkins for centerpieces. Layer the look with moss and mushroom table toppers for the ultimate festive and foraged look.

Zoom out: Planning is key to avoiding added stress around the holidays. Here are some recommendations — beyond dressing up the table — from another HGTV celebrity, designer Jasmine Roth.

🛏 Be a guest in your own home. If you have a guest room, stay in it for a night before everyone arrives. You might realize you need a phone charger, hooks for towels, or a warmer blanket.

📱 Include guests in the plans. Fire up the group chat sooner rather than later to coordinate schedules. Closer to the event, share menu ideas and make a grocery list. Guests can add snack requests, or volunteer to take charge of one meal if they're staying an extended period.

⏲ Cook ahead of time. Pre-make a signature cocktail and an easy appetizer that you can set out right before guests arrive.

🖍 Have a kids' activity. You can set up a coloring station at the kids' table, or hand each little one a goody bag. Parents will be relieved, and the kids will be entertained.

Go deeper: The season of holiday price cuts has arrived