Planning Ahead: Whether you’re hosting family for a formal Thanksgiving dinner or friends for a more relaxed Friendsgiving get-together, you’ll want to start planning well ahead of time. If you’re a guest, reach out to your host/hostess and see if they need help.
Invite: This one’s easy but it might slip your mind with all the planning. No need for anything formal, but you’ll want to at least send out a mass text or maybe even start a Facebook event page or WhatsApp group so that your guests know when and where you’re hosting Thanksgiving. Keep in mind that you may have extra last-minute guests - it’s all in the spirit of giving!
Decorations: This is actually something you can do days before getting the turkey. You may already have a color scheme in mind for your table, but generally, you can’t go wrong with fall colors like orange, burgundy, willow green, and chocolate brown. Plan to have your decorations by November 16 so you can make sure you’re happy with the look.
Menu: Have a rough idea of what you’d like to make yourself, like turkey and gravy, and what you can pass on to family and friends, like apple pie. If there are kids coming, make sure you have some kid-friendly foods and non-alcoholic drinks. The important thing to remember is, you’re not in this alone! Tap into what Thanksgiving’s really about - sending your S.O. to brave the Costco parking lot for last minute cranberry sauce while you set the table. We’re kidding of course, but the important thing is not to feel bad about delegating!
Set the Table: Time to get creative! If you’re pulling out the fine china, don’t forget the charger plates! Generally, each place setting should have a water glass, a wine glass, salad plate, dinner plate, napkin, spoon, fork, and knife. Centerpieces and place cards are also two party decorations you can get ready ahead of time.
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