We moved into a larger house this past Spring. I wanted the kids to have more space as they got older since I have heard it’s smart to be the house all the kids want to hang out at. I also had visions of hosting parties and Thanksgiving dinners. As we enter into the holiday season, there is one thing getting in my way of making those visions a reality.
I am a complete novice in the hosting Thanksgiving department.
Somehow, I have gotten away with just bringing a side dish (confession it’s usually rolls) to Thanksgiving dinners. My husband and I have decided to take the plunge and host at our house this year. With under three weeks till show time, I am already starting to mildly panic.
Mom, if this will be your first time hosting Thanksgiving, you are not alone. Here are steps I am taking in hopes I can then enjoy the holiday versus becoming a ball of stress.
Get an Accurate Count of Guests
Weeks ago, I confirmed who would be in attendance since so much of the planning is around how many people we will be hosting. As a new host, I don’t want to add on the stress of a last minute change in numbers.
Ask Guests to Bring Something
One of the reasons it will be important to know who is coming is so that you know how to appropriately split up side dishes (if asking others to bring an item). I never mind bringing a side dish and I guarantee you your guests won’t either. This could be key for us novices in order to not overwhelm ourselves the first year of hosting.
Be Strategic in Assigning Side Dishes
Don’t ask your friend or family member who is notoriously late to bring an appetizer. If you have people you know will struggle with this, ask them to bring something simple like a bottle of wine.
Start Now
Kristina has an awesome guide to coach us newbies through what day we can start prepping what item. This is mainly if you are doing it all yourself but her list really helps to take a step back and think through what can be done ahead of time.
Make a Complete Shopping List
See Kristina’s Guide Also think through the decor, household goods, or kitchen/serving items you will need and put them on your shopping list.
Shop For What You Can Now
After you have made that list, think about items you can check off now. This is probably going to be more décor items. For me, I made sure I purchased all I will need for my table like napkin rings, and fake pumpkins and candles for the tables.
Do a Test Run
Admittedly, this might be overkill. However, my husband and I are cooking a “test turkey” two weeks prior to Thanksgiving. I will be sick of turkey by the time the actual holiday arrives. We are hosting 20 people so I am also going to ensure I have enough tables, chairs and décor for it all. For me, this will significantly limit my day of stress.
Have Your House Professionally Cleaned
If budget allows, take this stress off of you by having your house cleaned a couple of days prior. My husband and I both work full time including the day before Thanksgiving. This really limits the time we have for things like prepping to host. Knowing cleaning won’t be on my list is going to be a huge relief.
Are you hosting Thanksgiving for the first time ever? Have any tips for us new to this adventure? We’d love to hear!
Related:
Your Complete Thanksgiving Menu, Cooking Schedule, and Shopping List
Ten Tips to Be a Better Hostess
I Pursued Perfection Because I Thought It Gave Me Worth
Read more of Stephanie’s contributions to allmomdoes here.
