Creating a Festive Atmosphere

One of the best ways to make Thanksgiving memorable is by creating a festive atmosphere in your Home. Keep the pumpkins, but it's time to put those jack-o-lanterns and creepy skulls away!

Decorating your home with Fall accents

Bring the beauty of the season indoors by incorporating Fall accents into your decor. Use items like colorful leaves, pumpkins, and gourds to create stunning centerpieces for your dining table or display them on your mantel. You can also hang a fall wreath on your front door to welcome guests into your home. Think along the lines of either "Rustic Harvest" or "Modern Autumn Elegance", there are many options and not a one size fits all...use items that you love and that bring a smile to your face. 

Using scented candles to add warmth

Wait...WHAT? I personally prefer the aroma of pumpkin pie and turkey floating from the kitchen..you know, ALL that seasonal yumminess! But after dinner, nothing sets the mood quite like the warm glow and inviting aroma of scented candles. Choose candles with fragrances like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, or apple cider to fill your Home with the cozy scents of fall. Place them strategically throughout your living area to create a warm and inviting ambiance that will make your guests feel right at Home. This also helps diminish lingering cooking smells. Young children and pets? Maybe electric melt warmers or essential oil diffusers are a better option for you, as they smell and perform just as nice.

Planning Your Thanksgiving Dinner:

Creating a menu that caters to everyone's dietary restrictions

One of the highlights of Thanksgiving is the delicious feast that awaits, a time when family and friends come together to celebrate, and it's important to ensure that everyone can enjoy the meal. Take into consideration any dietary restrictions or allergies that your guests may have. Offer a variety of options, including diabetic friendly, gluten-free alternatives, and nut-free options. This way, everyone can indulge in the feast without any worries.

Cooking ahead to reduce stress on the day of

Thanksgiving Day can be quite hectic, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and cook as much as possible in advance. Prepare dishes that can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This will not only save you time on the day of, but will also allow you to enjoy more quality time with your loved ones. Consider making desserts in advance. Desserts are the perfect opportunity to save time!

Trying out new recipes or sticking to traditional ones?

Thanksgiving often brings a mix of traditional family recipes and the desire to try something new. Decide whether you want to stick with the tried-and-true classics or experiment with new dishes. If you choose to try new recipes, consider adding one or two new dishes to your menu while also keeping the traditional favorites. This way, you can introduce some exciting flavors without sacrificing the nostalgia and comfort that comes with traditional Thanksgiving dishes (not to mention have something to fall back on, in case the new recipe didn't turn out as expected). I learned this lesson from personal experience, new recipes should be tried a week or so in advance...I tried a new spin on a sweet potatoe dish a couple of years ago, it was a flop! I missed having sweet potatoes on Thanksgiving that year! Needless to say, I won't wait until the day of, to try a new recipe for Thanksgiving again!

Organizing Fun Family Activities:

Planning for games that can engage all family members

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to bring the whole family together for some fun and games. Choose games that can engage all family members, from the youngest to the oldest. Classic games like charades, Pictionary, cards and board games are always a hit. Outdoor activities like touch football or a scavenger hunt can also be a great way to get everyone moving and enjoying the fresh air.

Incorporating Thanksgiving crafts for kids

Thanksgiving crafts are a great way to keep the little ones entertained while also encouraging their creativity. Set up a crafting station with supplies like construction paper, markers, and glue, and let the kids create their own Thanksgiving-themed masterpieces. They can make handprint turkeys, paper pumpkins, or gratitude jars to capture the spirit of the holiday. I would advise, however, to have someone else keep watch over the littles while you are preparing dinner! IYKYK

Creating a family tradition or embracing old ones

Family traditions are what make Thanksgiving truly special. Consider creating a new tradition that can be passed down through generations, such as a gratitude circle where everyone takes turns sharing what they are thankful for. You can also embrace old traditions that have been part of your family for years, like reading a Thanksgiving story or watching a favorite movie or parade together. These traditions create a sense of belonging and nostalgia that will make your Thanksgiving celebrations even more meaningful. My favorite is sharing what we are most thankful for.

Setting up the Perfect Dining Area

Creating a beautiful and inviting dining area is key to hosting a memorable Thanksgiving dinner. Here are some tips to help you set up the perfect space:

Arrange the dining area to accommodate all guests

• Consider the number of guests you'll be hosting and arrange your dining area accordingly. Make sure there is enough seating for everyone, whether it's using your dining table, adding extra chairs, or setting up a buffet-style meal and eating at a bar top.
• If space is limited, you can also set up additional seating areas in the living room or patio with comfortable chairs or floor cushions.
• Kids love to have their own table!

Setting up a beautiful Thanksgiving table

• Choose a tablecloth or table runner that matches your Thanksgiving theme or color scheme. Earthy tones like orange, brown, and gold work well for a traditional feel.
• Add a centerpiece to your table using elements of the season, such as a vase of autumn flowers, a cornucopia filled with gourds and mini pumpkins, or a rustic wooden tray with battery candles and fall foliage.
• Don't forget to set the table with elegant dinnerware, including plates, silverware, and glassware for each guest. Consider using cloth napkins in fall colors for an added touch of sophistication.

Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere

Everyone's belly is now full, the tryptophan and carbohydrates are working their magic! For after dinner comfort:

• Place soft blankets or throws on the chairs or nearby seating areas for guests to use if they get chilly. Those throw pillows might actually get used today!
• Play soft background music that complements the festive atmosphere, such as instrumental holiday classics or soft jazz. Have musicians in the family? Now is a great time to embrace it!

Managing House Guests

As you prepare to welcome friends and family into your home this Thanksgiving, it's important to think about how to make their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Preparing guest rooms for comfort

Before your guests arrive, take the time to prepare their rooms to ensure they feel welcomed and at home.

• Provide fresh linens and towels for each guest.
• Clear out any clutter and make space for your guests to store their belongings.
• Add some personal touches, such as a small basket of toiletries or a vase of fresh flowers.
• Make sure the room is properly ventilated and temperature-controlled.

Plan activities to entertain guests

Keep your guests entertained and engaged by planning activities that everyone can participate in. These tips will ensure that your house guests have a wonderful and memorable Thanksgiving experience in your home

• Organize a sightseeing tour of your city or town.
• Plan a movie night with classic Thanksgiving films.
• Arrange a friendly game of backyard football or board games.
• Take a nature walk or hike in a nearby park, especially the day after Thanksgiving when so many "Opt Outside" instead of shopping.