11 Fall Dining Room Accessories That Aren't Gourd-Awful Tacky

Now that summer is over (sorry to break it to you), it is time to put down the seashells and cozy up the nest. It is time to embrace fall in all its sweater-weather glory and make sure that the inside of your home is as welcoming as it can be — mainly because you’ll be spending a lot more hours in it!

A good place to start is the dining room. You know, that place that you haven’t stepped foot in in the past three months because all your meals have been al fresco? Colder months mean more time eating indoors. Is your dining area ready for all the attention it’s about to get? Do you have your fall home decor ready?

I always found it funny that as soon as the back-to-school stuff went away, stores would start hawking Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations. And, most of us totally buy into it! But, does anybody really need skulls and turkeys hanging out around the house for 3 months? Trust me when I tell you that there is more to fall than earthy browns and burnt oranges. There are better (more sophisticated) ways to get that cozy fall vibe without having to scatter dead leaves everywhere. Forget the clichés. Pumpkin-spice candles need not apply here! Instead, try dark, rich tones and added texture. Here, let me help you set the table.

This tablecloth would look great on a Thanksgiving table but is abstract enough to work all season long as well. We love things that can do double duty.

Nothing lends richness to a room better than jewel tones and velvet. 

Add texture and color to the table with this set of speckled stoneware. The rustic brown edge provides an extra homey touch.

This reminded me of the wine pitchers in "Game of Thrones" which made me immediately think of medievel times, dark wood, velvet, candlelight...and, of course, dragons. All things that are very autumn, no?

This tray is perfect for displaying all those pears and apples you're about to pick.

The wine coaster is a recent discovery for me. It is also pure genius. No more wine stains on the table!

Get a few of these and adjust them to varying heights to create an almost candelabra effect that adds depth to the room.

How luxurious is it to wipe your mouth on gold napkins? Definitely something worth giving thanks for.

What a great way to build drama in a room! Who says wine glasses need to be clear?

The roasts, stews, and luxurious meals you'll be making all season long deserve a sumptuous accent like these napkin rings.

Just in case you couldn't do without at least a little gourd...here is a salt and pepper shaker set that is cute enough to pass.