If you’ve volunteered (or have been assigned) to host Thanksgiving dinner this year then you may be freaking out a bit. With only days until the big event you may be wondering how you can feel more prepared.
Hosting your first one is a special milestone, and it doesn’t need to be perfect to be memorable! So, in hopes of getting my own things organized, I’ve put together a short list of tips to help you make sure everything runs smoothly and your guests get the most out of this holiday too.
Tip #1: Don’t forget to stock up on this basics.
Thanksgiving cooking has a way of eating through essentials faster than we expected. Make sure you’re well stocked on the basics (i.e. paper towels, tissues, soap, etc) before the big day! Having these items on hand keeps your kitchen and house running smoothly and saves you from those last minute emergency grocery trips.
Tip #2: Set the mood with your tablescape
Your tablescape is more than décor.. it’s the first impression your guests get when they sit down to share a meal. Think about how you want them to feel throughout dinner and pair that with a display of your own personal depiction of the holiday. Pro-tip: Set up as much as you can the night before. The day of any event has unforeseen challenges and causes the time to fly by. Putting last touches on a meal is one thing, but you’d hate to still be setting up the space when guests arrive.
Tip #3: Plan post-dinner entertainment
After dinner ends, guests aren’t always ready to leave— which is a great thing because it means they’re comfortable and enjoying themselves. Be prepared to continue to host. After dinner you can offer desserts or specialty cocktails, or even a seasonal coffee and tea selection. If you’ve got a fun group of people in attendance, board or card games could be the perfect way to entertain a variety of ages at once.
Tip #4: Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Hosting doesn’t mean doing everything solo. Whether it’s asking someone to bring a side dish, assist with prepping the food, or helping to set the table, involving others turns the day into a team effort. You’ll actually be surprised too how much most guests are eager to contribute— and sharing responsibilities makes the whole experience more enjoyable for you too.
Tip #5: Think about your menu ahead of time
One of most important tips for first-time hosts is to think about your menu well in advance. If you’re not sure where to start, keep it simple: choose two main meats (i.e. turkey, ham, roast chicken, etc)— and plan around five sides that balance flavors and textures. Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a salad or bread roll work beautifully together. Planning ahead helps you shop efficiently, organize cooking times, and ensure your table is well-rounded without feeling overwhelming.
Tip #6: Plan for leftovers
Leftovers are an inevitable part of Thanksgiving, since it is notorious for producing more food than anyone can eat in one sitting. To be prepared, have containers or resealable bags ready for guests to take food home. Preparing for leftovers not only keeps your fridge organized but also extends the joy of your meals and leaves guests with a reminder of the day. Thoughtful leftover planning can even inspire creative meals the next day, turning your hard work into multiple delicious days of foods.
Tip #7: Not everything has to be homemade
Hosting your first Thanksgiving doesn’t mean every dish needs to be made from scratch. Know your strengths and focus on the dishes you love and cook well. For everything else, consider store-bought options or order bulk items from restaurants or catering services. Using these shortcuts saves time, reduces stress, and lets you enjoy the day without sacrificing quality. Your guests will appreciate a delicious meal, not whether every dish was made entirely by you.
Tip #8: Think about your menu ahead of time
One of the best ways to reduce stress is to prepare dishes ahead of time. Many items freeze well or can sit in the fridge for a day or two. Even making components like sauces, gravy, or dessert crusts in advance can save hours on the big day. By prepping ahead, you free up time to focus on cooking main dishes, setting the table, and enjoying your guests, instead of scrambling in the kitchen at the last minute.
Tip #9: Start the morning by getting the meat in the oven
Whether you’re preheating a pre-cooked meat or starting a raw one from scratch, make the meat the very first thing you put in the oven in the morning. Holiday meats take the longest to cook and they often need resting time afterward, so getting them started early keeps your whole schedule on track. This also frees up valuable oven space later in the day for sides, rolls, and desserts.
Tip #10: Get yourself ready early in the day
After you put the meat in the oven, take a little time to get dressed and do your makeup first thing in the morning. It’s easy to get swept up in cooking and setting up, and before you know it, guests are arriving while you’re still in pajamas. Getting yourself ready early ensures you’re already presentable while prepping and serving food, and any touch-ups later are quick and easy. It also helps you feel more confident, put together, and relaxed throughout the day— because hosting is always easier when you already feel like your best self.
Photos by Anne Rhett for Over the Moon // Location: Guesthouse Charleston (this property)
