The holiday season has arrived and people are planning gatherings for the season. If your home is like mine and it’s the center for this holiday feast it’s time to make your list and check them twice. To help relieve some of the stress planning your family Thanksgiving dinner and enjoy your time with them without being a slave to your kitchen, we have created a few tips that we hope will make the remaining week a little more relaxing.
1 Week Before:
Take an inventory of table and kitchen supplies. Purchase your non-perishables, wine, alcohol, and soft drinks. If using a frozen turkey, plan the day you will begin to defrost it in the refrigerator. The rule of thumb is to allow one day for every five pounds of turkey. If you are renting anything (tables, chairs, linens, etc) make these reservations. Iron any table linens and polish your silver that will be used this season. If ordering centerpieces this is the time to place your order or if you are making your centerpiece on is the time to start. Begin to clean the rooms that will be seen by your guests, starting with the messiest room first.
3 Days Before:
Purchase the rest of your perishables, bake and freeze any desserts that can be frozen. Begin to decorate your home.
2 Days Before:
Begin cleaning and chopping any vegetables for the stuffing / dressing and side dishes. Keep this refrigerated. Prepare recipes that can be refrigerated for two days.
1 Day Before:
Dust and vacuum rooms your guests will be in. Set your table with the centerpieces and dinnerware. We recommend having a table that your buffet table keeping everything together. If your centerpiece is a larger piece this is where it should be placed. Smaller ones are for the table. Make and refrigerate your stuffing or dressing. Clean your turkey, then refrigerate. Finish preparing your salads and desserts.
Thanksgiving Day:
Roast turkey and dressing. Finish any appetizers and side items. Before family and friends arrive take a hour to relax and freshen up. To add ambient lighting light candles. Don’t forget the little people in your family. Place battery operated lights for your candles to avoid any accidents. To accommodate your younger guests create a table that is just for them. Instead of using table linens use kraft paper and set out cups with crayons. They can draw or play tic tac toe keeping your little ones busy.
Thanksgiving isn't only about the meal, so celebrate the people you are most thankful for and share your favorite holiday memories.
Thanksgiving Party Tips
Monday - Friday : 9 AM - 5 PM
Saturday & Sunday :
By Appointment
