Lucky for me, I get to be a guest for Thanksgiving and take the day off from hosting, but I wanted to provide some helpful tips for a stress free holiday. Here are my top ten hints to having a smooth gathering.
1) Create a balanced menu that celebrates the ingredients of the season. This time of year is one of my favorites because of the heartiness of some of the produce you may see at your local market.
2) Work with a list. Shopping and prep lists are crucial. Prioritize from the most difficult to the easiest. Don't forget to check completed dishes off, there is something gratifying about checking off a list.
3) Test any new recipes you may want to try before the holiday to work out any kinks.
4) When someone asks "what can I bring?", tell them what you would like them to bring. Whether it be wine, candy, baked goods or a side dish don't worry about asking your guests for help.
5) Know how many are coming and plan for a couple more. I learned this from my mom and it is something she always says, "what's two more?". Sometimes we have those wandering family members or friends who find their way over and it's best to be a little over prepared in this circumstance.
6) There is nothing wrong with using paper. So many companies have gorgeous paper and plastic products that are environmentally friendly and reasonable priced. It makes clean up easy and you don't have to worry about anyone breaking anything. One of my favorite sites is www.smartyhadaparty.com. They have everything from plates, to punch bowls and beyond. Also, set your table the night before so, this sill give you time to follow through with any vision you may have for it.
7) Know your space. Candles and centerpieces are gorgeous as long as you have the space for them. If you plan to have a centerpiece be sure that your guests can still easily pass plates and engage in conversation across the table. Same thing goes for candles, which I love as long as there is space. There are so many flame free candles on the market now and they are a safe way to still have a candle effect, without dealing with a flickering flame. If you're not ready to go flame free, tea lights are a good option.
8) Organize your platters, bowls and serving utensils. Know what you have on hand and ensure the platters are not too heavy for guests to pass around the table. I use post its to write what I am putting in each platter/bowl along with what type of serving utensil will go with it, so everything is organized the day of the event.
9) Set up a makeshift bar if you don't have a real one, so that guests can help themselves to a beverage. Don't forget to stock up on ice and any guest favorites. I like to always have a cocktail pre made, so it is easy to serve. Have a pitcher of ice cold water on your table as well or you will find yourself fetching water throughout the meal for your guests.
10) My last one is easy to say, but some not easy to do and that is to just have fun. The holidays are a time to gather with those who mean most to you. At the end of the day it won't matter if you burnt something or you forgot to roast the chestnuts as long as you had a chance to sit down, relax and have some laughs.
Enjoy!
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