On my nightstand: Lamp, candle, a family photo, clock, seashell drink coaster, &, usually, a glass of water
My nightstand also has a lower shelf where I keep a couple of "pretty" devotional books, a journal, & my Kindle.
On DH's nightstand: Lamp, seashell drink coaster, &, usually, a glass of water.
Both of our nightstands have drawers for stuff like flashlights, pens & notepads, cough drops, extra phone chargers, etc.