Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if this is the first year you are in charge of organizing the holiday, there are probably a million things going through your mind. Luckily, hosting your own Turkey Day can be fairly straightforward if you are prepared. Here are three things to keep in mind when playing host:
1. Figure out who is coming
It's much easier to plan Thanksgiving – or any holiday – if you know how many guests you'll be hosting. Whether it's just immediate relatives or your extended family, deciding who will be around your table when it's time to carve the turkey will help when you're putting together seating arrangements. It's important to have a table that can comfortably fit all of your guests. Find the largest kitchen or dining room table and surround it with comfortable-enough chairs. Although many don't consider it, you should take the time to think about how the shape of your table will affect seating arrangements. Oval-shaped tables allow everyone to see and hear each other, while rectangular ones can maximize seating. If you live in an apartment or condo, it may be a good idea to create several seating areas in close proximity to one another.
2. Make sure you have enough dinnerware for everyone
The plates and silverware that you choose for Thanksgiving will no doubt affect the overall aesthetic of the event. Make sure you have enough plates, silverware and glassware for all of your guests! The last thing you want is to have a few of your guests eating off paper plates with plastic utensils. Check (and double-check) to make sure you have enough dinnerware plus a few extra pieces. If something breaks in all the raucous, it never hurts to have a backup.
3. Don't forget holiday decorations
Thanksgiving signals the beginning of the holiday season for a lot of people, so it doesn't hurt to get into the spirit sooner than later. Put out a few cornucopias to help all your guests get in the Thanksgiving mood and you can even decorate your home with a few red ribbons or wreaths for upcoming winter holidays. Remember: You can (and should) plan your holiday decorations around your existing decor. If, for example, you have modern furniture, consider solid-colored metallic ornaments in corresponding colors. Whatever your current style, you can find the holiday decorations to match.
With just a little planning (and a lot of turkey), you can make this Thanksgiving at your house one to remember. Also remember that even though you'll be dedicated to making it the best Thanksgiving ever, make sure you set aside the time to celebrate with your guests and enjoy the holiday yourself!
