Hosting Tips for Thanksgiving Dinner
Written by: Kenzie
Y’ALL, Thanksgiving is literally next week! This month has been a whirlwind but I am ready to stuff myself next Thursday and then have another hectic month gearing up for Christmas. (Plus, my birthday is the day before Thanksgiving too! What cake flavor should we make??)
I know a lot of people have some - or a lot of - anxiety over hosting parties or get togethers, but I love it! I’m not about a stuffy, formal affair but I’m all for gathering with friends and family with some great food, pretty decorations, and maybe a nice soundtrack. So, whether this is your first year hosting Thanksgiving and you want to make a good impression or you’re looking for a few ways to spice up the traditions, I’m here to share some tips and easy entertaining ideas for fall!
Mood Music
As you probably know by now, I just love music! And I believe it’s a great way to set the tone of the room at any get together. Plus, it helps any abrupt silences not be so awkward and really fills in the gaps. Always adjust volume accordingly!! Spotify has a lot of great playlists for different moods if you don’t have time to put together your own. Here are two options, the first an instrumental and more chill option, the second more modern and a little bit of everything.
Nibbles
We all know the big dinner is the main event for Thanksgiving, but usually guests show up before you’re done cooking it up. Sure, there’s the helpful ones that are good in the kitchen, but a lot of the time, the just loiter in your way! To mitigate this, set up a snack station somewhere far from the kitchen (outside is great if weather permits or on a buffet or coffee table). At the nibble station, it’s great to have both sweet and savory options. Charcuterie boards are always impressive, and add in some chocolate chip cookies or puppy chow and your guests will be out of your way until it’s time to feast!
Easy Decorations
Decorating is one of my favorite parts of any party! I like to keep things simple while still looking super cute but not cutesy. I say save space on the table by keeping the decorations to a minimum there with one or two very small flower arrangements and a miniature pumpkin or two (miniature pumpkins are my weapon of choice for fall decorating). To spruce up any food display (like the nibble table), add bunches or fresh or dried herbs - and of course more pumpkins! Other great fall decorations: candles (votives or tall sticks are always classy), vintage books, plaid blankets (for leaving on the porch in case guests get chilly while mingling or for table coverings), and pine cones, acorns, or other natural elements.
The Final Tip
This one is by far the most important… just have fun! Thanksgiving is meant to be a time to have your loved ones near and reflect on your blessings and everything you are thankful for. You’re not meant to stress over creating the perfect spread or making sure everyone is pleased. If the host is relaxed and having a good time, everyone else is sure to as well!
We’re having Thanksgiving at our grandma’s new house this year and Callie and I (with a lot of help from our mom and grandma) are going all out and I’m so excited to show y’all how it turns out!
