Central Florida mom and lifestyle influencer Ashley Brooke Chambers appeared on WESH 2 to discuss a practical approach to holiday decorating that aligns with family values and fiscal responsibility. She emphasized the principle of “decorate once, celebrate twice,” encouraging residents to repurpose items they already own for both Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Use what you have

Chambers advises homeowners to start by inventorying decorations, craft supplies, and seasonal items already in the garage or closets. Simple elements such as pumpkins, gourds, and autumn-colored fabrics can serve double duty. By adding a few Halloween accents—like orange ribbons or faux cobwebs—these same pieces become appropriate for Thanksgiving gatherings without additional expense.

Creative, low‑cost ideas

Among the suggestions shared on her blog, Chambers highlights:

• Dual‑purpose centerpieces: A wreath made of pinecones, leaves, and small pumpkins can be dressed with a few spooky spiders for Halloween, then left as a harvest centerpiece for Thanksgiving.
• Reusable lighting: String lights in warm amber or orange can illuminate a porch for both holidays. Adding a few black‑light bulbs or orange gels creates a Halloween vibe, while the same lights provide a cozy glow for Thanksgiving dinner.
• DIY signage: Chalkboards or reclaimed wood signs can be written with “Happy Halloween” and later changed to “Happy Thanksgiving” using washable markers.

Family involvement

Chambers stresses that the process should be fun for the whole family. Children can help paint pumpkins, arrange foliage, or write holiday messages. This collaborative effort not only strengthens family bonds but also teaches children the value of resourcefulness—a principle that aligns with traditional family teachings.

Budget‑friendly mindset

By reusing décor, families can avoid the temptation to purchase new, often costly, holiday items each year. Chambers notes that many households already own more than enough supplies; the key is to view them through a creative lens. She also recommends checking local thrift stores or community swap events for additional pieces at minimal cost.

Where to find more details

Readers can view Chambers’ full blog post, which includes a printable supply list, step‑by‑step tutorials, and ideas for festive treats that complement both holidays. The post is linked in the WESH 2 interview segment and offers downloadable PDFs for easy reference.

With these tips, Central Florida families can enjoy a festive atmosphere for both Halloween and Thanksgiving while honoring the values of thrift, family togetherness, and creative stewardship of resources.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.