How to Host a Warm + Welcoming Friendsgiving: Scents, Décor & Recipes

The Ultimate Guide for a Cozy Smoky Mountain Gathering

Friendsgiving has quickly become one of the most loved fall traditions — a chance to gather with your favorite people, share comfort food, and soak in all the cozy vibes of the season. And in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains, the charm is multiplied with crisp air, rustic cabins, and breathtaking fall scenery.

Whether you’re hosting Friendsgiving in a mountaintop rental, a downtown Gatlinburg condo, or right at home, this guide will help you create a warm, welcoming, and unforgettable experience with scents, décor, and delicious seasonal recipes.

1. Set the Mood with Cozy, Seasonal Scents

Nothing sets the tone for Friendsgiving quite like fragrance. Scent is the first impression guests receive when they walk through the door — and handmade candles make that moment magical.

Best Friendsgiving Scents from Southern Timeless Candles

• Warm Pumpkin Spice – nostalgic and comforting

• Cranberry Apple Marmalade – bright, tart, and festive

• Maple Bourbon – rich, warm, and perfect for cabin gatherings

• Smoky Vanilla Woods – a cozy fireside favorite

Tip:Place one candle near the entryway, one in the dining area, and one in the kitchen. Keeping them coordinated (same or complementary scents) creates a smooth, welcoming aroma that fills your entire home.

2. Style a Rustic, Smoky Mountain-Inspired Table

Your tablescape doesn’t need to be complicated — just intentional, warm, and inviting.

Friendsgiving Table Styling Ideas

✅ Use a soft, fall-colored runner (burnt orange, mustard, or deep green)✅ Add greenery like eucalyptus or cedar for natural Smoky Mountain texture✅ Layer in handmade pillar and jar candles for a soft glow✅ Mix pumpkins, dried oranges, and pinecones for organic decoration✅ Keep place settings simple with neutral napkins & a sprig of rosemary

Why it works:The mix of candlelight and rustic natural elements creates that signature “Smoky Mountain cabin” warmth.

3. Make Your Friends Feel Special with Personalized Touches

Friendsgiving is all about connection, gratitude, and celebrating your chosen family.

Here are easy ways to elevate the experience:

• Add handwritten name cards

• Give mini candle favors at each seat

• Include gratitude prompts or “Thankful For You” tags

• Offer cozy throw blankets if you’re dining outdoors

These thoughtful touches make your gathering feel personal and memorable.

4. Serve Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Recipes

You don’t have to cook an elaborate Thanksgiving dinner — Friendsgiving is meant to be relaxed.

Easy Friendsgiving Recipe Ideas

• Brown Butter Sage StuffingRich, savory, and simple to make.

• Honey Cranberry Baked BrieA quick appetizer that looks impressive.

• Slow Cooker Apple CiderAdd cinnamon sticks & oranges for fragrance.

• Maple Bourbon Sweet PotatoesA Smoky Mountain twist on a holiday favorite.

• Pumpkin Cream Cheese BarsPerfect for dessert—easy, sharable, and delicious.

5. Create a Cozy, Cabin-Lit Atmosphere

Lighting transforms the entire evening.

Try this:

• Keep overhead lights dim

• Use candles as your main warm lighting

• Add fairy lights or lanterns for extra sparkle

• Keep a fireplace going if you have one

The golden glow will make your Friendsgiving feel intimate, cozy, and unforgettable.

Make This Friendsgiving One to Remember

With handmade candles, thoughtful décor, and delicious seasonal recipes, your Friendsgiving celebration will feel warm, inviting, and unmistakably “Smoky Mountain cozy.”

Southern Timeless Candles brings the ambiance to life—helping you create memories that glow long after the night is over.