Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and you’re likely one of three people: the holiday wiz who has every dish meticulously planned, an over-caffeinated, under-rested parent still cleaning up Halloween decorations, or someone trying to balance somewhere in between. No matter which category you fall into, this Thanksgiving checklist is for you. (If you haven’t already, take a glance at our Thanksgiving preparations list as well!)
THANKSGIVING CHECKLIST:
- Turkey and Ingredients: Have you made a list of all the ingredients you’ll need if you’re cooking? If you’re a guest, have you picked out a side dish, wine, or dessert to bring for your host?
- Place Settings: Do you have placemats, cutlery, glasses, and napkins for all guests? Consider adding creative name cards to make the event feel extra special. This thoughtful touch can be done in many simple, personalized ways (ask us for ideas!).
- Centerpieces and Decorations: Are you opting for seasonal florals, decorative leaves, or a traditional cornucopia? How about a table runner or candles for that extra touch when decorating for the holidays?
- Serving Essentials: Make sure you have enough plates and clean cutlery for everyone, with extras for unexpected guests. Don’t forget turkey carving and cooking tools, as well as serving platters, bowls, and trays.
- Attire and Travel: Need any pieces dry-cleaned for Thanksgiving dinner? If you’re traveling, do you need assistance planning your itinerary, booking flights, or packing? Does your car need a clean and shine before you pull up to dinner? Simplified can help with these tasks to ease your holiday season support.
- Housekeeping: Check key areas like the living room, dining room, bathroom, entryway, and guest rooms. Do they need cleaning or sprucing up? Adding a seasonally colored throw or holiday-scented candles will make your guests feel cozy and welcome.
- Home Maintenance: Have you raked your leaves? Is the guest bathroom in working order and stocked with toiletries? Ensure there are fresh linens in the guest rooms.
- Pantry Donations: Are you sharing in the spirit of Thanksgiving this year? Do you have pantry essentials or dishes ready for donation? Our team is happy to pick up donations from you and drop them off at a local community center or kitchen of your choice.
- Thank-You Cards and Party Favors: Will you be giving party favors to your guests? Do you need help with ideas or putting them together? If you’re a guest, sending a thank-you card to your host is a gracious touch that goes a long way.
Bonus Idea:
Consider adding a themed bar or holiday station to make your dinner stand out:
- Charcuterie Board Bar: A classy spread that your guests will love. Have us shape it into a turkey for some festive cuteness.
- Hot Cocoa, Cider, or Holiday Drink Bar: Include toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and other festive favorites so guests can make their drinks special.
- Pie Board: Because one flavor isn’t enough! Smaller slices or hand pies let guests try all their favorite pie flavors without the usual Thanksgiving bellyache.
The holiday season can be the busiest time of the year—let our team help take some of the load off. No matter where you are in the preparation process, we hope this Thanksgiving checklist gives you some ideas to make your celebration stress-free. And of course, we’re here to help with any of the above and more!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in November 2022 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.