It’s time to pack up those spooky Halloween decorations and transition your home for the next fall holiday. Whether you’ll be hosting a family get-together or celebrating with friends, now is the time to start planning now to ensure a stress- and disaster-free Turkey day. Here’s how to organize your party supplies and details for a beautiful feast this year.
Finalize Your Guest List
First things first, sit down with your friends or family to make a final decision on who you’ll be inviting over this year. Send out your invitations now so your guests will have enough time to coordinate their own plans and get back with a timely RSVP. Regardless of the number of confirmations, always be sure to add at least two people to the total number of guests. It’s almost guaranteed that you will have a few unexpected guests drop in on your feast.
Make a Menu or Hire a Caterer
Jot down recipes, shopping lists, and cooking schedules today if you’re planning to make a home-cooked favorite or two this year. You’ll want to stock up on ingredients before your local grocery store sells out. It’s also important to make sure that you check your local grocery stores hours Thanksgiving week. Some stores will be open on Thanksgiving or have limited hours during the week. While you’re at it, be sure to clear space in your pantry and fridge to hold the bounty of food before cooking day. Toss out those old leftovers, spoiled food, and empty condiment containers. If you have extra time, your oven and cookware supplies could probably use a nice cleaning.
Do a Walk-Through of Your Home
It’s important that you take your time as you pass through every room. Make note of anything unsightly that your guests might notice and take the next couple of weeks to fix scuffed paint spots, flickering lights, or fraying furniture. Has your guest room become the catch-all for the house? Start cleaning it out now. Clear the coat closet and entryway, spruce up your post-feast lounging areas and prep guests rooms or kids’ areas as needed. Also take a good look at your dining space as you move on to the next tip.
Decide What You’ll Need to Rent or Buy
Can your dining room accommodate one long table for everyone or will you have to split up into two areas? Do you have enough chairs and table settings? Gather your own entertaining supplies and see if you can make-do or if you’ll need to buy or rent extras for this holiday season. Local party rental stores might run out, so put your reservation in now.
Plan Out Your Table(s)
This step is a bit early, but you can start visualizing the table or sketch it out on paper. Start planning an ideal seating chart, so couples aren’t awkwardly separated and family feuds aren’t reignited. You can make changes as RSVPs arrive.
Consider what your statement centerpiece will be this year as well as how you’ll be coordinating the plate settings and name cards to match. If you’re going with a nature-themed piece, it’s best to wait to order flowers now to prevent early wilting, but make sure to reserve one ahead of time with a local florist. If you’re planning on using a pumpkin, make sure the one you are going to use won’t rot by the time Turkey Day rolls around. Nothing is as unappetizing as a rotted, moldy vegetable sitting amongst a sea of food.
Start Decorating!
This is the most fun step of all and you can really let your style shine in any way you desire. Choose a general theme for the home and shop for matching decorations. Make sure you add some of this season’s classics, such as warm candles along the mantel or an inviting fall wreath on the front door.
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