1. Set a Budget:

• Determine how much you’re willing to spend on the event. What type of event will it be? Potluck? BYOB?  Theme? Or themed dishes?  This will guide your decisions on food, decorations, and any additional expenses.

2. Guest List:

• Create a guest list based on your budget and the capacity of your space. Consider any dietary restrictions or preferences when finalizing the list.

3. Invitations:

• Send out invitations well in advance. You can use traditional paper invitations, online invitations, a combination of both, a text tree, or a good ole’ fashion phone call.

4. Menu Planning:

• Plan your Thanksgiving menu based on the number of guests and their dietary preferences. Include traditional dishes like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Consider accommodating any vegetarian or vegan guests.

5. Grocery Shopping:

• Make a detailed shopping list based on your menu and do your grocery shopping a few days before Thanksgiving to avoid the last-minute rush.

6. Preparation Schedule:

• Create a cooking schedule for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and the day itself. Research how long certain dishes need to cook and what can be prepared ahead of time. This will help you stay organized and avoid a chaotic kitchen on the big day.

7. Decorations:

• Plan your Thanksgiving decor. Consider a festive table setting with fall colors, candles, and seasonal centerpieces. Don’t forget about the entrance and other areas where guests will spend time.

8. Entertainment:

• Plan activities or entertainment for your guests. This could include board games, a Thanksgiving-themed playlist, or even a movie marathon.

9. Seating Arrangements:

• If you’re having a sit-down dinner, plan your seating arrangements. Consider the dynamics between guests to ensure a harmonious atmosphere.

10. Drinks:

• Stock up on a variety of beverages, including non-alcoholic options. If you’re serving alcohol, consider a signature Thanksgiving cocktail.

11. Timeline for the Day:

• Create a timeline for the day of Thanksgiving, outlining when to start cooking each dish, when guests will arrive, and any other important activities.

12. Gratitude Activities:

• Incorporate activities that encourage gratitude and reflection, such as going around the table and having each person share something they’re thankful for.

13. Photography:

• Charge your camera or phone and designate someone to capture the special moments throughout the day.

14. Cleanup Plan:

• Plan for the cleanup process, especially if you’re hosting a large group. Consider whether you’ll need help or if you can delegate tasks.

15. Relax and Enjoy:

• Remember to relax and enjoy the day. Don’t stress over perfection; the most important thing is spending quality time with loved ones. Lighten up the atmosphere with music, stories, and pre- or post dinner games,