As sweater weather approaches, so does Thanksgiving with its signature blend of warmth and a faint air of stress for some. While the holiday is a time of gathering and giving thanks, hosting Thanksgiving can sometimes feel more like a marathon than a moment of joy. From planning the perfect menu to orchestrating the logistics of family dynamics, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Follow along these tips and tricks to streamline your Thanksgiving preparations and turn that holiday chaos into a smooth, enjoyable experience, so you can focus on what really matters: creating lasting memories with your friends and family.
1. Set the vibe
Are you going for a classy, dressed up dinner or a casual lunch? Are you serving dinner family-style or as a multi-course meal? Set the tone by dressing up your table. Create an over-the-top tablescape by layering plates, adding decorative mini pumpkins, candles or garlands and elegant napkins. Or simply lay a timeless table runner and classic dinnerware for a more simplistic look.
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2. Craft the Menu
Creating a Thanksgiving menu that wows your guests doesn't require you to reinvent the culinary wheel; it's all about delivering delicious flavours that leave a lasting impression. The key to a successful Thanksgiving spread is focusing on tried-and-tested recipes that you’re comfortable with. Opting for dishes you’ve prepared before reduces stress and ensures a smoother cooking experience on the big day. Think of classic favorites with a twist or comforting staples that you’ve perfected over the years.
Our simple Roast Chicken with Lemon, Sumac and Garlic paired with Fall Roasted Vegetables make for an ideal main and side dish. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, experiment with our Fig and Goat Cheese Loaf served as an appetizer and make sure to finish with our spin on the classic pumpkin pie, our Pumpkin Mascarpone Swirl Pie with Nut Crumble. Make sure to shop our Thanksgiving essentials to help you create an artful menu!
3. Stay on Schedule
The key to hosting a smooth and seamless Thanksgiving is preparation. Follow along this schedule to ensure a stress-free hosting experience.
3 Days Ahead
Buy all your produce and defrost your turkey in the refrigerator (if that’s what your serving). Beat the crowds by doing your grocery shopping in advance and visit your local market to find mini pumpkins you can use as decor.
2 Days Ahead
Clean your house, focusing on high-traffic areas like the living room, dining area, and kitchen, and start prepping your ingredients. Store anything that can be peeled and chopped in advance in airtight containers in the fridge and mix your sauces and dressings. This will save you a lot of time on Thanksgiving day. If you are marinating proteins, you should begin this process as well.
1 Day Ahead
Prepare your dessert and set the table. Desserts can typically be stored at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. Some desserts also need 12-24 hours to cool or set so be sure to read through your recipe and plan ahead.
Day Of
Wake up bright and early and preheat your oven. Once the turkey is in the oven, start working on your side dishes using the ingredients you prepped in the previous days. When the turkey is done, let is rest while you entertain guests. Bring all your dishes to the table and enjoy. If your dessert is best served warm, heat it slowly in the oven while you eat.
