Hosting Thanksgiving or a Friendsgiving this year? We know it can be a lot of work to decorate, cook, and plan – let alone host – so we gathered a few tips from party planning professionals to help you (and us!) out. Whether you’re trying to stay on budget or stick to a theme, these simple tips for hosting Thanksgiving will ensure everyone leaves raving about, and thankful for, all your hard work. 🙂
Event Design by Lucky Day Events Co., Katelin Wallace Photography, Calligraphy by Honeycomb Collective
1. Surprise friends and family with a personal, heart filled note as an escort card. – Lesley Pick of Inclosed Letterpress Co.
2. If you are hosting a traditional Thanksgiving, and friends or family insist on bringing something to feel helpful, ask for items that don’t need to be heated up or will need additional serving pieces. Appetizers that can be set out during the day, wine and desserts are great ideas for guests to provide. – Sara Fried of Fête Nashville
Stationery by Inclosed Letterpress Co., Daniel Muller Photography
3. Share what you are thankful for. Don’t forget the reason for the holiday! You can provide a fun poster for guests to write down what they are thankful for or go around the table taking turns sharing.
4. Fall decor is so simple, you can easily grab some small gourds or pumpkins to use as decorations for the table or around your house. Add some simple florals or fall leaves to the decor and your tables will look stunning! – Kari Dirksen of Feathered Arrow
Floral Design by Decoration Inc, Heather Nan Photography, Planning by Fuse Weddings and Events
5. Use herbs in your centerpieces and table decor. I love using Rosemary and fresh Oregano at Thanksgiving – adding these into your table arrangements (or as garnishes on napkins/plates) complement the meal you are serving (as they are often used in cooking traditional thanksgiving dishes!). – Tyler Speier of Tyler Speier Events
6.. Have a fun punch made for self service. Adding a festive ice ring filled with citrus and cranberry lends a holiday vibe. – Gina Jokilehto-Schigel of Shi Shi Events
Event by Shi Shi Events, Emily Millay Photography, Florals by Molly Taylor & Co., Marigold Catering
7. You can also set up a fun cocktail cart where guests can create a fun holiday mixed drink.
8. Create the perfect appetizer with a cheese cake! – Carina Romano of Love Me Do Photography
9. Top off the table with long candlesticks that set the mood. – Jodee Debes of Jodee Debes Photography
10. Can’t forget the playlist! Just like at any party, don’t be afraid to mix in some standbys with a few guilty pleasures! – Brian Pincus of Bob Gail Music
Jodee Debes Photography, Planning by Molly My & Love Detailed, Rentals by Dish Wish
What are you best tips for hosting Thanksgiving?
This is AMAZING! Thank you!
These are so helpful!