Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and you’re likely one of three people. You’re a holiday wiz who has has every plate already planned, an over-caffeinated and under-rested parent still cleaning up Halloween decorations, or you’re somewhere trying to balance in between. Regardless of which you are, this Thanksgiving checklist is for you. (If you haven’t already, take a glance at our Thanksgiving Prep 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 for your host?
- Place settings: Do you have plate-mats, cutlery, glasses, and napkins for all guests? Consider a creative name card for each guest to make the event feel extra-special. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that can be done in many ways (ask us for ideas!)
- Centerpieces and decoration: are you opting for seasonal florals, decorative leaves, or a traditional cornucopia? A table runner, candles?
- Serving essentials: Do you have enough plates, clean cutlery for everyone (and an extra or two in case there’s a last minute guest?) Turkey carving and cooking tools? Serving platters, bowls, and trays?
- Attire and travel: Do you need any pieces dry cleaned for Thanksgiving dinner? If traveling, do you need help planning your itinerary, booking flights, or packing? Does your car need a cleaning and shine before you pull up to dinner?
- House keeping: Check areas like the living room, dining room, bathroom, entryway, and guest rooms. Are they in need of some cleaning and sprucing? A seasonally colored throw and holiday scented candles will go a long way in making your guests feel cozy and welcome.
- Home maintenance: Have your leaves been raked yet? Is the guest bathroom in working order? Are you stocked up on toiletries? Are there fresh linens in the guest rooms?
- Pantry donations: Will you be sharing in the spirit of Thanksgiving this year? Do you have pantry essentials or dishes ready? Our team is happy to pick these up for or from you and drop off at a community center or kitchen of your choice.
- Thank-you cards and party favors: Will you be giving favors to your guests? Do you need help with ideas or putting them together? If you’re the guest, sending a thank-you card to your host is an optional but gracious touch.
Bonus idea:
A themed bar or holiday station can make your dinner pop:
- A charcuterie board bar is a classy spread for your guests (have us make it in the shape of a turkey for some festive cuteness.)
- A hot cocoa, cider, or holiday drink bar: have toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon sticks or whatever you like for guests to make a fun and festive drink.
- A pie board: because one flavor isn’t enough! Smaller slices or hand-pies give guests the chance to try all their favorite pie flavors without having to suffer the usual Thanksgiving bellyache.
The holiday season is the busiest time of year for many– let our team help take some of the load off. No matter where in the prep process you are, we hope this Thanksgiving checklist gives you some ideas that make you all the more thankful this year. And of course, we’re here to help with any of the above and more!