Thanksgiving is one of our favorite days of the year, and for us, it’s always a full house—usually around 30 people gathered under one roof. We love hosting, and over the years we’ve learned a few tried-and-true strategies that help the day run smoothly and keep it fun for everyone.
Start Early: Prep the Weekend Before
Avoid the grocery-store chaos by buying everything you need the week—or even the weekend—before Thanksgiving. This is also the perfect time to give the house a good clean and make sure table linens are washed, dry-cleaned, and ready to go.
A Few Days Out: Cook and Set Up What You Can
Anything that can be made ahead, make ahead. Prepping dishes early and setting up spaces in advance reduces stress and frees you up to enjoy the actual holiday.
Create Table Setups That Work for Every Age
We like to create different table environments for different age groups. Adults get the china, kids get the paper plates, and everyone gets a space that works for them. We make the kids’ tables extra fun with activities and let them help decorate—it keeps them entertained and gives them ownership of their space.
Add Fresh Flowers
Fresh cut flowers are an easy way to elevate your home for the holiday. We love the affordable and seasonal selection at Trader Joe’s.
Make a Thoughtful Drink Station
Set up a bar with several drink options in a spot that flows well with your home’s layout. The key is placing it off to the side so it doesn’t clog up the main gathering areas.
Don’t Cook It All Yourself
Thanksgiving is a team effort. Ask guests to bring a favorite dish. It creates community, adds variety, and takes pressure off the host.
We love placing all our favorite dishes buffet style on this fabulous warming tray!
Don’t Forget the Games
Whether it’s football or the dog show, make sure there’s a designated spot for people who want to watch.
Prepare for Leftovers
One final tip: have to-go containers ready so guests can take home leftovers. It’s a small touch that always makes people smile.
