Hosting Thanksgiving can be a lot of work, but it doesn't have to be stressful. With a little planning, you can enjoy the holiday without the hassle. We have everything you need to prepare for the big day from planning the menu and accommodating overnight guests to deep cleaning the kitchen and setting the table, each element helps lay the foundation for a festive, seamless celebration.
1. Guest List and Invitations
Small Gathering: If you're hosting a small group, send out invitations a couple of weeks in advance (ours is usually as casual as a text asking if we are going or not).
Big Family Reunion: For larger gatherings, send out invitations a month or so ahead of time.
2. Menu Planning
Keep it Simple: Choose a few classic dishes that you know you can make well. Your menu might remain a work in progress as the holiday approaches, but it's never too early to sketch out a plan.
Don't Be Afraid to Cheat: Store-bought sides and a pre-cooked turkey can be lifesavers. If your family is low-key, skip the turkey all together and have steak or an easy Lasagna.
Ask for Help: Don't hesitate to ask guests to bring a dish or two.
3. Decorating Your Home
Cozy and Warm: Use warm colors, candles, and cozy blankets to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. But don't overwhelm yourself. The most important part of preparing yours is knowing what you have—and what you need—to bring it all together.
Simple Elegance: A simple table scape with a few well-placed decorations can be just as beautiful as an elaborate one.
Kids Table: We like to set the kids at a seperate table (it's all boy cousins around the same age) so they can hang out, chat, tell jokes and the adults can atlk and eat in semi peace. :). My MIL always has fun games for the kids or activities to keep them busy. Again, cousins ALL BOYS between 7-13. They are active.
4. Preparing for Guests
Comfortable Accommodations: Provide comfortable bedding, extra towels, and toiletries. People (aka kids) always seem to forget their toothbrushes. Having these are and other toiletries on hand can help ease the burden if they forget.
Thoughtful Touches: Ask guests about their breakfast preferences and leave out snacks and drinks for them to enjoy. Adding a bottle of water in their room is always a nice touch. Having the kids favorite snacks, or cereal can go a long way to making them feel comfortable.
5. Cleaning and Prep
Deep Clean/Prep the Kitchen: A clean kitchen is a happy kitchen! A week before clean the kitchen, entry way, dining area, bathrooms and anywhere your guests will be hanging out. Clear counters, wipe out your refrigerator and freezer and clean your oven to ensure your space is ready for rolling out pastry dough, chopping vegetables, mashing potatoes, and roasting the turkey.
Hire a Cleaning Service: If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to hire a cleaning service.
By following these tips, you can host a stress-free and enjoyable Thanksgiving that everyone will remember.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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