As the temperatures cool and autumn is under way, our thoughts turn towards Thanksgiving. Hosting at Thanksgiving is the perfect time to bring together friends and family together to share and create unforgettable moments of connection. Especially those you don't get to see often. And if the thought of hosting Thanksgiving is overwhelming-that's understandable. But planning early on is THE KEY! When you start planning early, you will be surprised at how easy (and fulfilling) it can be. My go-to is a checklist so nothing is overlooked, I've created a Thanksgiving checklist with a step-by-step timeline, so that the big day goes smoothly. And you stay calm, cool, and collected.
1. Planning Starts Early
2. What to Include on Invitations
3 Stock Up on Supplies
4. Prepping Saves the Day
5. Hosting Tips (you'll be glad you know)
6. The Day Before
7. Thanksgiving Day
Planning Starts Early
Earlier than you may think. I like to start 4 weeks out. By starting to plan early, it will allow you time to be completely prepared on the big day, instead of running around putting out fires (figuratively, not literally I hope.) And by planning early on, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your guests on the big day, since your objective as a host is to bring together family and friends to create memorable moments. Planning allows you to be present in the moment. The moments that matter.
Get your free printable Thanksgiving checklist here. Here's to effortless and stress-free hosting.
At this point, you will need to decide your guest list, plan a menu, or if you want to make it a potluck. People feel more at ease when they participate so consider asking each guest to bring a side dish and make it a potluck. Potlucks can be a lot of fun and create a sense of community since everyone contributes.
What to Include on Invitations
I think casual invitations work best. Group texts or emails allow you to reach out to everyone at once and they make it easy to keep track of how many guests are planning on coming. A few things to include on an invitation are the dress code, if it's casual, formal, or you'll be eating outside and bring a jacket, etc. If you're having a potluck, include what dish the guests should bring such as sides, desserts, etc. It also helps to include what time guests are welcome to begin arriving to socialize (happy hour) and what time the meal actually begins. These simple things usually help guests know what to expect and that makes everyone feel more relaxed.
Stocking Up On Supplies
Starting your stocking preparations early (I like to do this 2-3 weeks early) means you won't run into the last minute problems of turkeys selling out (it happens), not having enough ice, silverware, or chairs for example. These simple things can be easily overlooked unless you plan in advance. Once you have an idea of the number of guests you'll have (always plan on a few extra) and your menu, do a trial run in your head. Mentally run through a rehearsal of tables, chairs, dinnerware, utensils, or serving ware. Now is the time to purchase extras if you'll need it. If you need more table space or chairs, a great resource to consider is renting tables and chairs from a party rental store. At two weeks out is when I purchase the turkey and nonperishable foods. This is also a good time to purchase any decorations for the table, or place orders with the florist.
Our Favorite Desert Living Style Tableware
Prepping Saves the Day
One crucial to planning is to evaluate the menu and make a cooking schedule before the big day. I do this 1 week ahead. This may sound overly dramatic, but on Thanksgiving Day when the turkey is cooking for hours and you only have one oven, it is a life-saver to have a cooking schedule pre-planned. If you're hosting a potluck, this will help with freeing up the oven. Also, most turkey's will need a few days to thaw before cooking, so plan this accordingly.
The Day Before
On the day before Thanksgiving, I like to set the table. This is the time I set aside to prep, chop veggies, make salads, or side dishes. Basically anything that can be prepped and refrigerated until tomorrow. Luckily, most side dishes, can be prepared the day before, refrigerate, and then reheated quickly or use slow cookers on the day of. Also, make any bread dough or rolls to refrigerate until needed. Don't forget to stock/refresh the guest bath the morning before guests arrive, with paper, hand towels, soap, and candles.
Thanksgiving Day
Don't forget to set your alarm today! The turkey will need to come to room temperature (usually a few hours) before roasting. Some side dishes can be cooked in a slow cooker, and I like to start these early. While I'm up early, I like to put drinks in the refrigerator (or on ice) to chill. Prep (or chill) any sides or salads during this time. Plan on having some time after roasting, that the turkey will need to rest after cooking and before carving, so you can utilize this time to bake last minute rolls or side dishes, and toss salads. Most of all, while delicious food is always welcomed, creating meaningful conversations among guests is the heart of any gathering. Great questions to start the flow of conversation is to ask guests to share what inspires them or brings them joy. Asking guests a question about their childhood memories is another great way to get people to open up and tell stories.
Bonus Hosting Tips (You Can Use For Any Occasion)
As a host, your goal is to provide an opportunity to bring people together and create unforgettable moments. With a little planning and prep, you can easily do this without being stuck in the kitchen, giving you time to mingle and make connections with your guests.
A favorite hosting tip I use on repeat is to set up an area for drinks with pre-made batched cocktails. Ahead of time, make a large pitcher or sangrias or punch so your guests can serve themselves. At a drinking area, also set out a pitcher of fruit water and wine. This will allow you to spend more time with your guest making meaningful conversation, rather than refilling drinks.
Also, spend a few minutes prepping snacking boards for guests to be able to graze. Happy guests are full guests!
Another tip, is to ask the guests to help when they arrive. Put them opening the wine, or just setting out an appetizer, but it helps them feel a part of the celebration-putting them at ease and starts conversations.
If you haven't downloaded it yet, don't forget the free printable Thanksgiving Checklist! This checklist will keep you on track and stress-free.
And lastly, remember to have a good time. That is the whole point! In the end, no one will remember if you burnt the rolls but they will remember happy unforgettable memories. Enjoy spending these moments with friends and family this day, give thanks, and make memories.
Check out Love Fall Hate Orange? for more autumn home decorating ideas!
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