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If the chilling weather didn’t smack you in the face that Thanksgiving is in three days, than the endless houses decked in holiday lights sure will. We usually spend Thanksgiving at my godmother’s, but I know that this holiday can be quite daunting and frustrating for most. It should be a chance to celebrate food and family, and all the things you’ve been thankful for, without any pressure. Although, I’m not hosting this Thanksgiving I decided to share a few tips for a drama and stress free holiday season. Don’t worry about your silverware not being the brightest or small issues that pop up when the family gets together, this is your year to relax and enjoy Thanksgiving too!
1. Set Expectations and Make Your Guests Feel Welcome
- Finalize your guest list two weeks before – although Thanksgiving isn’t a formal affair for most, knowing the final guest count will make it easier to plan dishes, shop for ingredients beforehand rather than the days leading up, and gives you ample time to search through your house for chairs, silverware, etc.
- Give your guests a clear idea of timing for the day – what time to arrive, when food will be served, and times for any events you may have planned.
- Inform guests about certain details – can they bring a guest, are pets allowed, and will they be able to watch Football.
- ASK FOR HELP – too many times we think we can handle it on our own, but let’s face it, between cleaning, setting the table and decor, oh and cooking the perfect menu. Some of your guests are eager to help, whether it be brining appetizers and dessert, or having a close friend come early to set the table. Don’t forget the kids either!
2. Organize Your Pantry
- Go through your pantry – refresh spices and herbs you know you’ll be using. Getting a fresh stock of ingredients will make a whole of a difference for your meal.
- Transfer dry ingredients from their packaging – not only will airtight containers keep your ingredients fresher longer but it will make baking and cooking several dishes at once easier. If you really want to make it an effortless holiday season, label all your ingredients.
3. Invest in Proper Tools
- Choose a heavy, high sided roasting pan large enough to hold the roast and not larger – don’t forger to have hand scissors, kitchen twine, trussing needles, baster, instant read thermometer, basting brush, fat separator, cheese cloth, and roasting rack.
- It’s all about position – for larger roasts the lower third rack works best, while smaller roasts work best for smaller birds.
4. Finalize Your Menu
- Order your Turkey – fresh or frozen, make sure to place your order two weeks before.
- Gather recipes – whether it be traditional or new recipes, create a shopping list of ingredients you will need. Don’t forget dietary restrictions and dishes guests may be bringing. Once your done with your recipes, place them in a binder or laminate them so you can remember what you’ve made in the past.
- Prep your sides – two days before, make simple side dishes, like cranberry sauce, soups, and dips. This will save you crucial time on the big day, but it also gives you more time to make dishes you’ve wanted to try but were hesitant.
5. Create Simple and Effortless Decor
- Gather your supplies – linens, silverware, plates, and any other entertaining supplies you will need. Seeing what you already have, is a great inspiration for the look of your holiday.
- Food is the main focus for Thanksgiving – instead of a large centerpiece in the middle of your table, create small floral arrangements that guests can take home. Get festive by adding fall vegetables and bunches of herbs. Simple branches, leaves and elements from your yard are perfect!
- Light votives – candle lighting adds a cozy ambience, but make sure candles are dispersed throughout, not on the main dining table, and unscented. Remember the best part is walking into a delicious smelling home.
- For those you opt for a buffet style holiday – place dishes on different levels by inverting bowls covered in pretty fabric and multipurpose cake stands, it adds for an interesting presentation. Label all your dishes too, including noting certain important details like nuts or seafood.
6. The Day Before
- Take care of last-minute preparations – buy perishable vegetables and salad greens. Finish fruit and nut pies, and leave them at room temperature not the fridge, no one likes soggy pie.
- Set the table – it’s a simple task that can be done the day before instead of rushing to do it as guests are arriving.
- Take a step back and breathe – all your preparations have paid off, don’t worry. Create a schedule, whether it be mentally or a written timeline, so that you are prepared and know what needs to be done in what order. Guests don’t want to see you stressed out, while waiting to be fed. Plus, you deserve a glass of wine for all your hard work!
These are just a few suggestions but Whole Foods has a cheat sheet with endless tips, as well as the guru herself Martha Stewart. Each family or group of friends have their own traditions and norms for their holiday, so remember to make Thanksgiving special and unique to you.
