Despite the fact that we’re well into November at this point, I have yet to do a single thing to get my kitchen ready for the rapidly approaching holidays. If you haven’t either, then at least we’re in good company, and it isn’t to late to get ready either!
In fact, I’ve broken it down into a handful of the most important tasks. Tackle one task at a time, and soon enough, your kitchen will be in tip-top shape for the holidays, regardless of how grand or intimate your gatherings will be.
11 Tips To Get Your Kitchen Ready For The Holidays
1. Clear Out Old Food
Clear out any old food items (especially anything past its best-by date) from your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Not only will you get rid of all those expired or unwanted things that are taking up valuable shelf space, but you’ll free up room for incoming ingredients and future culinary creations.
Be sure to clean up any sticky messes if your fridge or on your shelves if you happen to have any. (This isn’t strictly related to holiday prep, but you’re already moving things around so it’s a good opportunity to take care of those messes!)
If you’re freezer’s feeling crowded, take things out of their bulky packaging to free up more space. Discard foods that show signs of freezer burn. If you have an older freezer that needs to be defrosted on occasion, you can probably gain some valuable storage space by defrosting it now.
2. Check Your Spice Cupboard
Go through your spice cupboard and check the best-by dates on everything you know you’ll use for your holiday dishes. When in doubt, spices that are over a year old could probably use replacing, as well as any that don’t smell like much of anything when you open them.
Here are some spices commonly used during holiday cooking to look for and restock as necessary:
- Poultry seasoning
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Parsley
- Garlic
- Nutmeg
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Vanilla extract
3. Clean Your Oven And Dishwasher
Your oven and dishwasher are likely to get a workout in the coming weeks, so you want to make sure they’re relatively clean and in good working order for the holidays. If your oven or dishwasher is looking particularly grimy, check out my tutorials detailing how to clean each here:
4. Inventory Your Cookware
Making sure you have all the cookware you need (and that you know where it all is) can go a long way toward making your holiday meals more efficient. Start by taking an inventory of your pots and pans—do you know where your roaster is, and where all the lids to your pots are?
Another good thing to do is check out your cookware for cracks, chips, or broken pieces so you know what needs replacing.
5. Wash Your Tableware And Linens
Since a lot of our holiday pieces only comes out once or twice a year, they might be a bit dusty. It’s a good idea to pull out any special dishes, glassware, flatware and serving pieces and give them a good wash—doing it ahead of time will ensure you’re not trying to wash a bunch of large dishes during the hustle and bustle of food prep.
Take the time to wash and iron your tablecloths and napkins too. If you like to use candles on your holiday table, make sure you have enough on hand and a lighter or matches to light them with.
6. Get Rid Of Clutter
If you’re anything like me, once the cooking begins in earnest, you need all the counter space you can get! To help free up more workspace, go through your kitchen and remove extra items from countertops, tables and shelves to declutter.
Put all these things into a storage bin or closet so you can get them back out and replace them after the holidays. With your temporarily pared-down kitchen, you’ll have the room you need to cook and bake your holiday meals to perfection.
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7. Sharpen Your Knives
Don’t settle for hacking up your turkey with a dull carving knife—take the time to sharpen it beforehand, along with your other go-to kitchen knives. Use either a sharpening steel, a knife sharpener, or take your knives to a local knife shop and get them sharpened by a professional.
8. Stock Up On The Basics
I find that if I’m going to forget about something, it’s not usually the ingredients or the table settings—it’s those everyday housewares that I didn’t think to check on! Save yourself some time and stress by making sure you have plenty of those everyday necessities. (For instance, you don’t want to finish up a big holiday meal and realize you’re out of dishwasher detergent!)
Not everyone will need all of these things, but here’s a general list of household basics you can check your stock of:
- Trash bags
- Kitchen string
- Aluminum foil
- Plastic wrap
- Ziplock bags
- Cheesecloth
- Dish soap
- Dishwasher detergent
- Toothpicks
- Batteries
- Coffee filters
- Paper towels
- Napkins
9. Give Your Kitchen A Safety Inspection
Whether or not you’ll be expecting little ones in your home for the holidays, making sure your kitchen is safe is a smart move! But if you are expecting little ones over, you’ll want to ensure they can’t get a hold of any potentially harmful objects, such as matches, lighters, sharp utensils and household cleaners, by storing them cupboards with safety latches.
And everyone should make sure they have a functional fire extinguisher and smoke detector in their kitchen. And speaking of smoke detectors, take the time to test all the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your house to make sure they’re working correctly. Better safe than sorry!
10. Give Your Appliances A Checkup
Check each appliance you plan to use, including your microwave, stove, oven, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, crockpots, food processor, mixer and blender, to make sure they’re working and ready for action. As you assess each appliance, clean anything that could use it.
It’s also worth checking your oven temperature to make sure it’s heating up to the correct temperature. Learn more about calibrating and adjusting your oven at the link below.
Read More: How To Calibrate Your Oven For Better Baking
11. Consider Setting Up A Drinks Station
One thing I find helpful during holiday dinners is setting up water, sodas, and any other beverages out of the main kitchen area. That way, people can help themselves to drinks without creating a traffic jam for those of us who are working in the kitchen.
You can do this for the duration of the season, which may be especially useful if you’ll have guests staying with you for the holidays. Set up an easily accessible beverage station with your coffee maker and coffee, water kettle and tea, and all the add-ins too. Put it in your living room, dining room, or wherever makes the most sense in your house so that guests can help themselves without crowding the kitchen.
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Do you do anything special to get your home ready for the holidays?
There are certain things that you can do. Like REFACE YOUR CABINETS, REPLACE CABINET HARDWARE, REPLACE LIGHTING and many more things.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Always keep your toaster unplugged after every use! One of the top fire causing appliances.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Those are all great ideas, especially for those younger and starting out. I flew by the seat of my pants starting out and can share some pretty embarrassing moments.Where were you (and the internet) back in the early 70s? One thing I’m really having trouble with is the politically correct saying “Holiday” “Holiday Table”. I beg your pardon? This is NOT a new holiday someone just invented. It’s an old Christian holiday named after Christ. Call an apple an apple! Please. I’m am not a devout Christian or even necessarily religious, but, I get a bit upset and bounce onto my soap-box when I see our traditions butchered. No, it’s not everyone’s tradition or holiday for that matter, but it’s a specific holiday that everyone enjoys. If you enjoy it and participate don’t change the name. Merry Christmas and I hope your Christmas Table and Christmas Dinner turns out perfect.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like this article so much as it brings the best tips on how to prep! Now that christmas is near, i guess some of u are gonna follow these tips, and then throw a party huh? Hehehe
Please log in or create a free account to comment.What a wonderful list! Thanks.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I invested in quieted china chests long ago and so when the holidays roll around I just have to take my china out and use it. It’s all kept safe and clean in my china chests. I’ve moved several times and I just place the china chests in a box and move.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great tips for everyone here, thanks for sharing this out, I love it!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Jillee, you are AWESOME !! Please don’t change a thing!! Do it your way!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.xoxox
HI, I love your blog and have been following on Pinterest for a long time. I now have your newsletter coming into my home. Great tips I have tried your homemade laundry soap, and so many of your other ideas and recipes. These are great ideas for early Thanksgiving get readies. My question for you. You have a lazy Susan pictured. Is this in the cupboard or on the counter? If on the counter what items do you keep on it?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for your hard work. I think your format is great and easy to follow. Thanks again Sherry from Ohio
A lazy Susan in the cupboard is super helpful! I love using them for spices and other small items. :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love the thoroughness of this list, but if I were to tackle it, I would have had to start in January!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thank you so much for the reminders! Two can think better than one and, when it’s two women? Wow!
Have a great weekend!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I was curious if you ever thought of changing the structure of your blog?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Its very wwll written; I love what youve got to say. But maybe
you could a little more iin the way of content
so people could connect with it better. Youve got aan awful lot of teext for only having 1
or 2 images. Maybe you could spce it out better?
Having been a fan for many years I feel you have done an amazing job and your blog is wonderful. You have gone from small and simple to professional and gorgeous. Your content has made my life richer. Thsnk you Jillee!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Oh, how funny! I was just thinking the opposite. I love the setup because the intro gets right to the point, and then everything I read is on topic with just enough photos for visualization. I get so tired of scrolling through a zillion pics. Those remind me of kids trying to stretch their essays.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best Thanksgiving hint is to cook 2 turkeys. Instead of one 20 lb+ one, roast one 12-15 lb turkey the day before; slice it and put it in the refrigerator. That is the leftover turkey. Then, on Thanksgiving, roast another 12-15 lb turkey to present at dinner. This is much easier and you end up with more white meat. (sizes can vary according to your number of guests).
Please log in or create a free account to comment.What a brilliant suggestion, this is the solution I have been looking for ! If I had thought of this it would have saved me many years of holiday frustration with giant birds. Another plus for this idea is that smaller birds are more tender and tastier.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Our family’s favorite way for the last 15-20 years has been to let our local (locally owned) grocery store cook it, slice it, and save us the broth and yucky parts for gravy. (My grandmother used the yucky parts when she made the gravy, but now that its my job, I don’t.) They don’t charge very much at all for this service and no one has the hassle! If for some reason we can’t do this, we swear by cooking bags.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to plan an event for a time when a meal isn’t necessarily expected, that way I can serve simpler foods and snacks that can often be prepared ahead of time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Well I have been doing this for about 10 years now I set the dinning room table early I mean like 4 days in advance then I cover it with that clear film plastic that they sell at Wal-Mart Everything stays dust free . I can put all the little touches like place cards ,napkin holders ect that seem to be time consuming Then when its time to dine before anyone comes I remove it ..lite the candles I am ready
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip for the holidays is to start early. I have been doing a little bit every day, starting back in November with making my own Vanilla Extract. I am making all homemade gifts this year including myself on the list. Doing something each day, whether a little extra cleaning, making my own Nilla wafers for the cognac ball cookies or working on some original labels for my gifts–a little each day doesn’t seem so daunting as trying to get everything done last minute!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We try to keep things simple. And you can use this tip to identify water glasses. http://wholenewmom.com/whole-new-budget/sharpie-permanent-marker-rubberband-water-glasses/
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a Menu List of all the items I will be serving & the dishes they will be served in. I set thetable the night before & put out the serving utensils & platters & bowls. I then then tape the list to a cabinet over the sink so that I will be prepared for the days festivities.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to have a great husband who is most helpful with cleaning.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I plan a cooking schedule for myself. I make a list of dishes that can be made a day ahead or earlier, those that can be frozen and the ones that need to be cooked at the last minute. This gets me from start to finish and definitely organized when preparing a holiday meal. I stress less and enjoy my company more!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip would be to make sure you washroom are clean and stocked up with fresh towels, toilet paper and light a warm scented candle….and most importantly have a glass of wine and enjoy everyone’s company!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I “assign” a couple dishes or projects to my hubby. When he is doing his thing, I take a BREAK. Huge he
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Always have plenty of food on hand for unexpected visitors
Please log in or create a free account to comment.What a great idea! It is also time to make sure holiday foods, plants, and decorations are of reach to your pets!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is keep “to go containers” (you can buy in bulk from Sam’s) for your family to take some food home.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I swear by my Cozi phone/computer app. I can keep track of all my recipes, dragging them to my meal planning calendar and to my shopping list. Then when I get to the store, I use the Cozi app to check off items as I buy them. My hubby and kids can even add last minute items to the list, and they’ll appear instantly on my phone so nothing gets left out. I have separate lists for each store (grocery, dollar, Walmart, etc.) to keep everything organized and make sure I get the best prices by planning my shopping ahead of time at the most economical store. I use the free version, but you can pay for more features with a subscription. (BTW, this is my fave tips site!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to ask for help – EARLY! Before you get frustrated, irritated, bitter…that’s if you have some one who is willing to be a gracious helper, which I do. And be lavish with your thanks!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Freeze freeze freeze did I say freeze:)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have learned to freeze most of my holiday dinner ahead of time./-make it a week or so ahead but the trick is in the defrosting of food. When it’s defrost time usually a day before the party use the refrigerator to defrost then heat and serve.
Prep a day before for the veggie tray. Bag and label trays/ dishes one wk party wask and cover.
Hope this helps
Lazy in tx
Kathy
I always have lots of kid friendly foods when entertaining. It helps keep them entertained.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My TIP: When making deviled eggs, mix the egg yolks, mayo and seasonings in a ZipLoc bag. Put everything in, zip it closed and smoosh it with your hands til blended, then cut the corner of the bag and fill up the whites………………….SUPER EASY……………
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make my cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it. It’s easy to find a day when I can make the dough a month ahead of time, but closer to Christmas my time gets crunched! I defrost the dough the day before I need to bake.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.How do you splatchcook a turkey?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Clean as you go~but don’t over load your dishwasher.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love doing Thanksgiving potluck style. The host does the turkey so it doesn’t have to be transported, and everyone else brings a side and a pie. The result is a fabulous feast and no one is burned out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you don’t want to bake early, prep & group your ingredients the day before to save yourself time and frustration (and identify forgotten ingredients) once you get started.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If at all possible, I like to take a short nap before the Turkeys done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip: If you’re a dog owner, schedule a full grooming appointment, or bathe them yourself, before the holiday- try to get them in no later than two days before the event. That way you have one free day for any last minute errands.But your pooches will be fabulous for guests.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love to make beautiful place settings that are personalized, and love to serve horderves. Lots of them, and wine, while Christmas music plays. It’s like heaven :) xo
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to have an activity for the kiddos to do while the adults are cooking. Whether it’s a little centerpiece, place mat, or simple coloring sheet, it’s nice to have a fun and busy (and quiet-ish) Thanksgiving themed craft for the little kids to do and then show off to the adults. Along with the gluten free rolls and cornbread for my son and green bean casserole, I will be taking a big box of construction paper, tissue paper, markers, glue, and scissors to my in-law’s house :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set your table the night before.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make lists and check off as you finish. It helps me remember during this busy time of year!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always tell people that dinner will be served half an hour after I plan on serving it, that way I have time in case something goes wrong, and I put out simple appetizers of cheese and crackers so people have something to munch on if I run behind. If someone offers to bring something I never say no! I plan out how long each item takes to cook/bake and give myself a checklist with times, so I can remember when to start things. Anything that can be done the night before gets done then, so I have less dishes to do the day of: potatoes for mashed are peeled and cut and put in the fridge in water so I just have to change the water and boil the day of, veggies are peeled and sliced ahead of time. Dressing is made so it just has to be popped in the oven. I clean and organize my kitchen and pull down my good dishes the week before. I make sure my dishwasher is empty and clean as I go. Most important, I don’t stress about things being perfect. My family will remember time spent talking and laughing longer than they will that the rolls were a little dry.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip is to eat out if there will be a small number attending. I have been doing this for a few years now and I love it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to remember to prepare for emergencies. I know it’s no fun, but they do happen and it’s always nice to be prepared for anything! :) Happy Holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Several weeks ahead, I map out my menu listing all ingredients needed. Then I check to make sure I have everything or put it on my grocery list.
Once I have the menu set, I make sure I have all the serving dishes and serving utensils required, group them together and put a note in each noting what it’s for.
Eliminates surprises, well, mostly anyway ;-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip: always have some basic appetizers on hand so when unexpected guests show up, you have something to serve them. Crackers, nuts, olives, sparkling water, hot cocoa, a nice bottle of wine, etc. Thanks for the great giveaway!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to stick with recipes I’ve made before. Trying out new recipes for an event isn’t wise, because they might not turn out as well as you’d like.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Get a cooler to put drinks into. The juice for kids & pop (and other adult beverages) can take up alot of room in the fridge. This way you save the room & by keeping the cooler out of the kitchen, everyone can access the drinks without getting in your way.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m not hosting Thanksgiving this year, my sis is, so I’m not only taking a delicious sweet potato casserole, but a BIG bouquet of fall colored flowers for the host!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my tip is dont be afraid to ask for help, you are human!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t do it all your self. Everyone loves to bring a dish of their favorite recipe. You make the turkey and a few basics and let everyone else bring a dish to share. When the meal is over they can all fill their dishes with leftovers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t forget the four legged friends of yours or thoses of family and friends. Make sure everyone knows not to feed them from the table as many Thanksgiving foods are not healthy for pets and maybe make a “safe” place for them so they can get away from the hussle and bussle of the busy day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My biggest tip is during your cooking, CLEAN AS YOU GO! It’s so much easier when you don’t have a sink full of dishes, a full trash can, dirty counter tops, and mess on the floor!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I plan my menu a week in advance. Also some of my guest usually bring a dish. My panty stay pretty organized with labeled containers, so all I have to do is check of what I need from the market by looking at the containers with my list of recipes. I also try to do this a week in advance as well.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One of my tips is to leave a basket of soap, shampoo, tylenol, antacids, lotion and other samples on the bathroom counter for guests to help themselves if they need anything.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.During the holidays there are so many extra tasks that it’s easy to forget that special meals and gatherings are not Performances. They’re not about timing and and “getting it right” or making an impression. They’re about the people, the relationships, the growing together, and hopefully, love.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If I get angry about the lack of help or appreciation or embarrassed by a cooking goof, I check my motives and remember the humbleness of the first Thanksgiving and the first Christmas. I need to scale it all back until there’s lots of room for kindness, forgiveness, and love.
My favorite tip: clean up as you go!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.As we usually have Thanksgiving at my sister-in-law’s house, bring plastic containers to help put away, or share, the leftovers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I pinned this
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I would say preparing as much as you can ahead is the biggest help to me.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I set out trays of help-yourself treats soil don’t have to stay in the kitchen. That includes hot drinks in crock pots
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Use powdered eggs in your baked desserts. You can’t tell the difference and you can lick the bowl and spoon without worrying about getting food poisoning!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make more appetizers then the actual main meal. Most people now have allergies and picky kids, so they munch on more snacks. Plus my family is full of snackers so hardly anyone eats at the same time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Just enjoy the time spent with family. Don’t make things too fussy, and cherish the moments with those you love! And remember to thank our Savior, Jesus for the gift of His Love!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set up a “kiddie” table especially for the all the kids. I love that our set up is always close to the “adults” table. We get to hear all of the crazy, silly conversations the kids have & snap lots of pics of them! :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I start prep work & whatever cooking I can starting in November. If it can be prepped & frozen to make my life easier I do it. I always make sure I have yummy homemade appetizers ready to pop in oven from freezer at moments notice. It’s important to me to have time to have fun with my family & guests & not just be stuck working in the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love making home made Gluwein. It is a German tradition I have carried on since living there. I use Mogen David Concord Grape wine, put it in a saucepan with about 1/2 c. of sugar, slices of lemon, slices of orange, cinnamon sticks and whole cloves. It not only smells wonderful, it tastes wonderful!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love having homemade bread baking or fresh out of the oven when people come over. I keep a container full of bread dough in the fridge so we get the enjoyment if fresh bread without the day-of mess. Artisan bread in 5 minutes a day means my house always smells like grandpa’s kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I want to win!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I pinned this
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Clean as you go!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan the menu early, get family members to pitch in with there “FAVORITE” dishes. Get as much done the day before as you can. Get the bird in the oven and finally take a 20 minute nap before the guests arrive…you’ll feel better and not so grouchy when family arrives .
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I usually test things out on my husband before the Big Day
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always prep the day before while watching chick-flicks. This year’s pick is Letters to Juliet!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to accept any help so I won’t be so busy that I would not chill and enjoy myself. Thanks
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to do dishes the same night so I won’t dread to clean up the next morning.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Last year we used paper plates! It seems a little casual but with a lot of people it made the cleanup much easier!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I so want to not be stressed out this season so I can enjoy the company of my family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I put together a timeline for the days leading up to the holiday – with a detailed schedule for the day of the “event”. Another related tip – I keep a little supply of gifts that can be used for hostesses, guests, neighbors, etc. Generic items like candles, holiday tea towels, little holiday books, etc are not expensive and I feel better prepared for surprises.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Enjoy every moment with your family and truly be thankful for every day we have together!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My #1 tip is to just relax and enjoy your family time! Try to get everyone involved in the cooking/serving/cleaning that way no one is left alone to do everything. It’s much better this way! If you’re inviting family over for dinner have them bring their own dishes that way you don’t have to prepare as much food. The last thing you want to do is have a stressful holiday… eat, breathe, smile.. repeat! =)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always freak out about having room in the oven for all of the sides. However, many people forget to take into consideration that the turkey needs to rest for 15 minutes and then it takes us another 10 minutes to carve it. So my tip is to use those last 25 minutes to warm up or bake the other sides since most of them don’t need much time in the oven to begin with.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep as much as possible ahead of time. For example, chop peppers, celery, onions, etc, measure amount needed for recipes and put in ziploc Baggie. Next take all the little bags and put those for one recipe together Ina larger bag or bowl so they are all together.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The best tip is to prepare as much as you can in advance, and then relax and remember that it’s about the day and family and friends!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This year, we are going to my Partner’s Aunt and Uncle’s house, then coming home and having our own Thanksgiving Thursday evening through Friday. The kids and I are cooking everything on Wednesday. Leftovers are better anyway, and we will have enough food to last the whole weekend!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I forgot – we also had all menu items purchased by Monday this year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I also agree to the tips about prep everything as many days in advance as possible. The table is set, silverware is clean and all serving dishes and utensils are ready for use.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have all the guests feel as comfortable as possible, if someone is better at pies and wants to make them, yes, bring them! We have so much food I also stock up on ziplock bags for everyone to take home leftovers. No paper plates used, just wash dishes as they are used and it is not a big mess. Enjoy the time with everyone that is wanting to help, let them. Be thankful for every single person that has graced your table with their presence.
My tip is to make sure I have extra disposable containers to give leftovers away in! I cant stand the clutter the day after!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t forget the furniture! Double check the count of people that will be attending your soiree and make sure you have enough seats and room to make folks comfortable! Don’t forget special cases like kids and babies that may need special treatment and make sure you arrange the seats accordingly.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do as much ahead of time as I can, and spend a lot of time planning and making lists! Love your site :))
Please log in or create a free account to comment.when I get ready for the holidays, I make sure I have the “memories”… mom’s stuffing, real mashed potatoes, homemade apple pie, juicy and not over cooked turkey…. homemade gravy, and fresh cranberry sauce !!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make my christmas cookies early and then freeze them! This way if I have unexpected company, I pull out the cookies, put them in a gently heated oven, and then they are ready to eat! Yum!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite entertaining tip is to ‘stage’ all the tablee, chairs, table linens, flatware, centerpieces and any special decorations or chair accents two days before the feast. We can’t cook too far in advance, but I can wash all linens/ dishware, and have them labeled so I know I have attractive serveware for each dish, along with enough salt/ pepper and gravy containers. Keeps me sane the day of the dinner so I can focus on cooking.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do everything possible ahead of time! Remember that disasters make the best and funniest memories. : )
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I used a counter top roaster for the turkey. It frees up oven space and gives me time to get side dishes in the oven on time. I set my table the night before and cover with a clean sheet. Remove as company arrives. Saves me time. I also set out dishes on the table so I don’t forget something.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.After doing all you can do to have things ready, be sure to enjoy the day with family and friends. Don’t worry about things you can’t control just do what you can and make memories!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Have someone clean your house, I can only wish.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip is to accept help! If people offer to help cook, do dishes, bring food, let them! And remember- Good enough is Good!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to pre-prep as much as I can so that on Thanksgiving day I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Clear out the coat closet so that when guests arrive, they have a place to hang their items. Otherwise, everything gets dumped and your house that you spent soooo long cleaning & making perfect, is quickly in shambles!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Get the dogs groomed a week early, so shedding doesn’t ruin your cleaning!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.In order to prepare for all of the cooking I try to go to the grocery once and get everything I need and might need. However, I always end up making a couple more trips for forgotten items.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I assign “jobs” to my kiddos (greeting people, taking drink orders, acting as my runner, etc.) to keep them involved, but out of my kitchen! :) They love it and are AMAZING helpers!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love your website. I check it daily. I love to decorate my table with lots of colors and textures. I use
Please log in or create a free account to comment.natural things from the out of doors as much as possible. Dishes or china, are what I collect and when at thrift shops, I’m always looking for unusual pieces to add beauty to my table settings. Hugs and smiles are always a nice addition to any holiday gathering!!
This one sounds like a no brainer, but make sure there is enough seating and room at the table.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Let someone else do the hosting. Just bring some type of dish or dessert that can be used.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my tip take a breath and enjoy family & friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love the list, I also do a menu plan and shopping list early in November for T-Day, and again on Black Friday for Christmas baking, so I can start picking up special ingredients that keep !
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My thanksgiving tip is a tradition thats used yearly. Get a cloth tablecloth in a plain color, and have every family member or guest use a fabric marker or sharpie to write down what they are thankful for and the year. This tablecloth is brought out every year, slowly filling up with memories and blessings. Great holiday centerpiece to pull out. Happy Holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to make a calendar of all upcoming events where my hubs or I are required to bring a dish. Then I decide which 1 or 2 dishes I could make that would cover all the fetes, potlucks, soirees, and parties and that’s what we sign up for.
It’s then pretty easy to make a giant batch of sweet ‘n sour meatballs (my go-to offering), portion into the desired number of affairs, and refrigerate or freeze until needed. Then dump it into a crock pot or festive dish, heat up, and away we go. Easy peasy for us, and no one knows the difference!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am purging my whole house and the kitchen was my starting point. I threw in the garbage pots and pants that shouldn’t be in anybody shelves; others things I took to garage sales, and now they’re going to donations. I’m keeping in my drawers what I like, use, and care to have it. Your article opened my eyes to my spices. Tonight they be in the trash. Ha-ha!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to cook mashed potatoes and chop/prep veggies on Tuesday and cook desserts on Wednesday. Turkey goes in the oven early Thursday morning so I have more time to relax when the guests arrive. All that’s left is making gravy and reheating foods as needed.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.To balance the craziness of the season I try and set up the parties at my house as early as possible. I create menus and grocery list so I can pick up items when they are on sale. I also try and make sure to do as much prep as I can before hand. I keep my baking for when my girls are out of school since they enjoy doing it so much. With my prep and planning, done I can enjoy baking with them.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thank to all for the wonderful and very useful ideas. I’ve already have done a few, but some of the other suggestions were “Light Bulb” ideas! We have asked our guest to bring a specific types of dishes to share. Most of our dishes will be prep or done on Wednesday. I like to use a couple of crockpot for the mash potatoes and stuffing (I finish off the stuffing in the oven for that crispy top).
The last few years we have been cooking our brined turkey on the BBQ, which is why our guest list has grown this year. The BBQ method frees up the oven for other dishes to finish off or stay warm till dinner is served.
To everyone, have a joyous and safe Thanksgiving Holiday with your family and friends!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite do-ahead meal prep is making the mashed potatoes the day before. The next day, put them in a crock pot to warm up. No one will ever know they aren’t freshly made.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.To me the best part of welcoming people into your home for the holidays is making it look and feel like a home. Setting the mood with low lights and candles can really help. Also, I love the scents of the seasons so for Thanksgiving it’s all about the pumpkin and apple spiced candles. For Christmas is gotta be the pine and peppermint candles that fill the air with the holiday spirit.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I get everything I can prepared early. All the chopping, dicing today. Baking tomorrow!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to do all you can before the big day, set the table, and cover it with a sheet, make dishes that you can make ahead, clean the house on Monday before Thanksgiving, make or buy the centerpiece the week before. make a list of all the recipes you need and a list of dishes you are planning to serve so that you will remember to actually serve everything you made.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to do as much ahead as possible, so Thanksgiving Day is more fun for everyone!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Whew! I needed your cleaning your oven tip a loooooong time ago, lol.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I sure appreciate the ease of navigating your website and your quick and easy ideas! Somehow, I seem to just make things WAY too hard, as if I am not busy enough!
Thanks for all your great tips! I love them!
My tip is to have containers available so you can send leftovers home with family/guests!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My #1 entertaining tip is to have a spotless home, starting with the kitchen and living room. thank you for all your wonderful ideas.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Annual Christmas baking with my mom in late November/early December!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This year I made my centerpiece and am quite happy with it. Some glitter and glue and turned some previous things into new !
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to get out all the serving pieces ahead of time, including the serving utensils, that way I’m not stressing at the last minute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have several tips. 1. Find a place for the smokers outside your home, if at all possible, in a sheltered alcove Supply ashtrays and a metal bucket to throw cigarette butts and ashes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.2. Find a room for your pets to be comfortable in. Sometimes guests are not aware that pets are or are not allowed outside…bolting pets….uneasy pests.
3. Don’t sweat the small stuff…it happens…just enjoy your day with friends and family!
Make sure to have enough food and beverages, but to have leftovers than feel like there is not enough! I love putting out bowls of Andes candies too.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.clean out silverware drawer of all unneccessary items, if your like me you have a tendency to put odd pieces in there so you can find them. put a new liner in drawer wash the silverware tray if it is washable.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.i have a planner that i use from year to year, keep track of recipes, ideas, decorating schemes, who came who brought what etc. my plan for what to do on what day is in there, what dishes to use what works and what doesn’t is in there……my shopping list based on the recipes….that way i can just keep track os what is on sale and follow the plan. this way everything is done ahead of time, i get to watch the parade and i only need to do a few things on the actual day and i’m NOT spending the whole day in the kitchen away from family and friends
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I bake things ahead so I dont have have to make everything in one day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I plan to really enjoy this year as it is a once in a lifetime event of Hanukkah and Thanksgiving falling on the same day. Also I am employing the help of my older children to tackle all the necessary tasks! Happy Thanksgivukkah!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One of my favorite things to decorate for the holidays is the dining table. So many options and it always looks so welcoming!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I still have small kids and we go to several different houses for the holidays, so I don’t have a great tip for entertaining. However, when I do have people over, I want my focus to be on my guests not on the house. They are coming over for me, not a sparkling house. Five years from now, will it matter if I had dust in the corner of the ceiling? To me, the memories that are made are more important.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’ve been using a method of holiday preparation passed down from my grandmother.
In addition to chopping the “holy trinity” (onions, celery, and bell peppers) and preparing cakes, pies, and side dishes days in advance for the holidays, my grandmother always stored non-perishables (recipe ingredients, canned goods, mixes, spices, condiments, etc) WEEKS in advance in a “Holiday Box” in her pantry.
She would also “decorate” her Holiday Box with Christmas wrapping paper and used the same box for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love planning the meal, looking for recipes, organizing my thoughts, to do this I use a note tablet.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to list the menu starting with the appetizers, I make a note of where each recipe is located (the page # of the cookbook or the location in Pinterest…If possible I may print the recipe out at this point.
From here I make my grocery list.
prep as much of your food ahead so you don’t have to do as much
Please log in or create a free account to comment.relax and enjoy. if something doesnt go quite according to plan, it usually doesn’t matter, it might even make for good memories!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.pinned to my pinterest holiday board!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.make sure you have a good bottle of wine for the cook…something to sip while you are preparing the meal!!! i like pinot noir….you’ll feel great by the time the food is ready to serve!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We do some of these basics ahead of time. The key is a clean, fully stocked kitchen before Thanksgiving week! As soon as the turkey goes on sale, we buy it before the mad rush!! Also, Zen in the diffuser…sets the tone for the day and has such a calming effect on everyone! I’ve been using it at work and it’s amazing how many comments people make when they enter my office!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to have a beverage station where guests and family can make their own thing to drink. That area is stocked with glasses, ice, pop, beer, wine, etc.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.following on pinterest
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Please log in or create a free account to comment.family feels so special when we make our own “punch” with sparkling water and various juices. It’s always interesting what flavors we come up with.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip – I try to remind myself on the day of the event, that no matter how much I prep and plan, to not stress if it doesn’t all go as planned. My husband often reminds me to take a breath and just enjoy our family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m disorganized by nature, so I plan, plan, plan! I write lists for everything, then enjoy the satisfaction of checking off as I accomplish things. I do as much as possible ahead of time….I even roast and carve my Thanksgiving turkey on Tuesday. I arrange it in a pretty baking dish, then reheat it on T’day. THIS year, my favorite thing about Thanksgiving prep is that one of my daughters is dong most of it! We all divide up the menu, but Jackie is hosting us….for which I am thankful!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One of my best holiday tips is don’t put everything off until the last minute. I made that mistake last year and I was a zombie by Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Mine is more of a before and after. Two weeks before the big day get ahold of everyone that may be cooking and finalize the meal plan and the necessary grocery list. I like to keep all the recipes I will be using and the list in its own folder so I am not searching for them later. One thing that is always on the list is disposable tupperware. After the meal divide the leftovers and that way everyone gets a little care package and I do not end up with packed fridge full of more food than we can eat. (Of course this wouldn’t be such a problem if we didn’t always cook enough to feed an army haha!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m a big coffee drinker and try out different ones at times. I don’t let any of the less than favorable blends go to waste. I put unused coffee grounds in the bottom of my trash can, to help minimize odor. I may not like the taste of whatever brand, but they always smell wonderful. Just compost when the aroma subsides.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This isn’t really a tip on how to make the holidays easier, but I picked this tradition up from somewhere, and it has enriched out Thanksgiving every year. We love it, so here it is.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.At the end of the meal, when everyone is full and happy, we take turns around the table sharing what we are really grateful for this year. It is really surprising how much closer it brings everyone. Gratitude really is quite magical.
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
When I host Thanksgiving, I always let others bring something to share. Not quite a potluck, but everyone has their special dish they like to make, eat and share and it adds to the richness of the occasion (no one is required to bring something, but it seems they always want to!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you have kids, and your meal is scheduled a bit late, it’s good to have something simple to serve them a few hours before the meal (like mac & cheese).
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Speaking of which, don’t be so busy you forget to eat yourself! I get very cranky when I’m hungry. I’d rather eat less at the main meal than be cranky beforehand because I’m so hungry.
Try to be in the moment. Relax. Enjoy your guests and let it roll. =)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Go buy up all those bags of Candy Corn in all the yummy flavors. Dump them in a hurricane jar and make a cute label that says “Turkey Toes” and put them out for everyone to snack on at Thanksgiving for a little something sweet.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Put all your table setup stuff in a box prior to go day. Ironed linens, polished silverware, napkin rings, list of guests, etc… This way you just move inventoried box in day of event and it’s instant setup without the worry. Better yet, assign this setup task to someone else.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep the room is little on the dark side so the Christmas lights sparkle brightly and don’t mix the Tom & Jerry’s too strong!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.An hour and a half before I have to put the turkey in the oven, I bake a Pecan Pumpin Crunch. It is always a hit for dessert and it makes the house smell like heaven. And it’s easy to make!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always have things like crayons to keep the kids busy and some wine to keep the cooks happy.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make as much as I can ahead! Also, use homemade stock if you can- the natural gelatin is good for your bones and your stock will make everything taste so much better and adds less sneaky sodium! It is frightening how much salt is in those cans of stock on the grocery shelves.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan ahead! Procrastination does not but stress you out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do as much make ahead as I can (meals for this week were done in the crockpot and frozen last week, so I don’t have to cook dinner and can focus on cleaning; make a couple batches of cookies and freeze; set up appetizer trays Wednesday evening and stack in the fridge). Wednesday night we watch the Grinch while I make pies – this means the kids are up late, so they will sleep in and mom can get the turkey in the oven early before anyone is up.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.At my house every family brings their signature dish so no one person does the bulk of cooking.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple..its easy to go overboard..simple holidays leave room for memories to be made and joy to be lived!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I used to spend days prepping and cooking, and now as much as I hate to admit it, I order dinner from the store. The best part about having it delivered, I have more time to take photos. I have some of the best photos…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Be okay with delegating to others, be okay with “preparing” some foods instead of “making” all of them, be thankful for anyone who helps clean up!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I made a Christmas scrapbook as far back in the family that I could go. I included family member’s favorite dishes, favorite memories, events, other customs and trends.(How some trees with decorated in the 70’s was interesting) I pull it out each year. It’s fun to remember with family and find out what other families did. It’s a great conversation starter. I even included trivia and guess that greenery pages.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My advice is to get together with family and split everything up so you are only in charge of one or two things.i love it.it is so much more relaxinand enjoyable. thanks for doing another giveaway!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make a chart with cooking times and temperatures of your planned food. With only one oven, I need to choose things with similar cooking temperatures. Learned this lesson the hard way! :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always go grocery shopping the beginning of December, and stock up on all of the things I will need for Christmas. This makes the holidays a lot more enjoyable for me, when I have everything I need and I don’t need to fight the crowds.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to spread the work out over the week before the Holiday, especially the cleaning. If guests are staying with us, I tackle one room a night to get everything cleaned and prepped for our company.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.After I plan the meal and shop for all ingredients needed, I group the non perishables together for each dish and place them in the bakeware or casserole dish I am cooking them in a week . Several days before I start making the dinner rolls and cinnamon rolls and then freeze them. If I make lasagna, I make the sauce in advance (a few days)and then assemble the lasagna the day before and refrigerate. The table is set the night before and is ready to go. I have a cheat sheet on the fridge and mark off each item and chore once it’s done. for 30 years this has been a life saver for me!!!!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to set the table the night before so as one less thing to do the day of.
Also, check out the dollar store for plastic containers so guests can take home leftovers!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite holiday tip is to have a few planned activities for the kids. A treasure hunt complete with clues as riddles can keep kids busy for a while! The older kids now like to help the young ones solve the riddle to get to the next clue. When the weather is going to be bad I plan a craft. Funny how the adults tend to be gathered around the craft table!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I recommend finding as many recipes as you can that can cook in a crock pot. I have almost all my side dishes set up for the slow cooker. When the big day comes I don’t have to worry about timing everything in the oven and stovetop.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.For a less stressful day, I do pot luck so that I don’t have to worry about managing multiple dishes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I keep a holiday binder this time of the year. It will have any parties or gatherings I have and what needs to be cooked and what day. I also will list chores/cleaning around the house that needs to be done so I’m not swamped. It’s also helps to save the year before to refer back to. I always make pies and desserts a day ahead.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to prepare as much as I can the night before and use slow cookers for some things.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip for the holidays is to remember, but not stress over those special diets. There are 4 in our family that have celiacs, so it is absolutely necessary to ensure those needs are met! Lots of fresh fruits & veggies really helps. I made some GF dinner rolls & they turned out great!! Now Gf pie crust & apple crisp!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do as much cooking ahead of time as possible.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you are like us, empty nesters, you might want to buy a smaller turkey breast and do it in the crockpot. You can google how. It turns out really moist.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A lot to do before the holidays! Thanks for the tips! I hate cleaning out the fridge, but it has to be done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If I am running short on time, I will head to the grocery store salad bar and get my veggies for salad. No one ever knows. Sssshhhhh
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If, like my family this year, almost everyone has taken the week off for the holiday, take the time to spend time together away from both the kitchen and the table; you’re going to be doing enough of that in the days to come. Get to know each other again, listen to each other, really listen. Sit with the elders and learn from their experiences. Play with the children and give them your undivided attention. Put the cellphones, tablets, bluetooths, etc. away and REALLY be there with each other. This is the time and the memories that will be cherished long after the turkey and sides have all been devoured, and everyone has returned to their regular routines.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock the TP!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make up your menu and get out all the recipes one week ahead of time. Then go through all the ingredients and make sure you have every thing you need. That will guarantee no unexpected last minute trips to the grocery store.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make lots of lists, and my group of friends has a long standing agreement to make every party a joint venture so no one person has to do all the work.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make all pies and cakes on Tuesday. Make dressing on Wednesday-it just seems to taste better the next day. I also make tea,lemonade, and set tables on Wednesday.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We bake a lot in the days before, and have the older kids do food prep at the table. First thing we prep is a veggie platter to keep snackers away from the dinner.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.When someone says, “Should I bring (some sort of food that they consider their specialty)?” Let them. It’s what they really want to make and eat. It will make them happy and it doesn’t really matter if it doesn’t go with your planned menu or if you don’t like it. Plus, it may be that they really don’t like what you are making and want to know there will be at least one dish that they enjoy.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Sometimes it’s nice to get a football game on, or play some live music or signing to get a moment to tidy up or prepare for dessert or whatever the next activity is. Distraction at its finest, ha!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to brine the turkey so it is juicy even the white meat
Please log in or create a free account to comment.On most holidays, I like to get a good walk/run in the morning. It allows me time to organize my thoughts, release for my stress and burn some calories so I don’t fell bad about what I eat later. It also gives me the energy to make it through the day and actually enjoy it!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Always put out veggies and dip for those that get hungry early!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Awesome tips! I decided years ago not to stress. Just breathe and if everything is not perfect, so what? The important thing is family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Lists are my best friend when it comes to holiday planning. One for each of the dishes and another for ingredients required. I also try to make as much of the food earlier in the week as possible. Also, getting all the veggies chopped and ready to go beforehand is a big help.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.When we are hosting, I make not only a menu and a grocery list, but also a time line of the big day and the day leading up to it, with start times for items that need to be cooked, etc. This makes sure I don’t miss starting the turkey so it can be cooked on time, or remember to put in the rolls in the middle of all the other pots boiling. It really helps keep the day organized.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Holiday tip? Let someone else cook and I’ll happily clean up :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I pre prep everything I can, measure things ahead, cut veggies ( not potatoes) and get snack trays ready. Disperse the work so less to do on the big day! I could use some help, and that card would help ( maybe get some tropical traditions coconut oil)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make lists, do as much prep before hand and let people bring things to help out and to have some new stuff to try.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love having my grown children and grandchildren over to help me get my tree and lights put up and decorate the tree with Christmas music playing int he background. Also getting together to do some baking.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If guests are spending the weekend with you, assign someone the task of preparing a simple breakfast each day to give the hostess a break. She’ll be exhausted after the big meal and clean up. It’s no fun to play short order cook as guests roll out of bed the next day, a few at a time. Make a group decision to have a help yourself buffet of cold foods, or a sit down together and get it over all at once breakfast. If you vote for the latter, decide on a time and make sure everyone has an alarm clock so they stick to the agreement. Whoever is last to the table does the dishes. Skip breakfast and you’re locked out of the kitchen until lunch.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan plan plan
Please log in or create a free account to comment.While it’s easy to get caught up in holiday stress, it could be avoided. Precut all the veggies and freeze them. Make your casseroles ahead of time and freeze them. Order your pies from Baker’s Square (they are as good as home-made). This way on thanksgiving day all you have to do is put the turkey in the oven and thaw the rest. Who wouldn’t like a stress-free holiday!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Happy Thanksgiving!
I like to put all of the ingredients for a dish together in that dish. I place them in my spare rooms if I have to. If it is not refrigerated, it gets placed in the cooking dish with any other ingredients to save me steps later. I usually do this when I unpack the groceries to save a step and also see what I have forgotten.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always start my holiday planning by working a timeline that ends the day before the event. I list all my cleaning, shopping, prepping, and cooking on a list and work back from the holiday so on the holiday I am free to cook the things that can not be prepared early. That leaves time to relax and enjoy my day with my family and friends!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.there are several recipes that we love for both Thanksgiving and Christmas so I prepare for both meals at the same time to stock up the freezer with the side dishes. (Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, sausage stuffing, and green bean casserole, plus homemade cranberry sauce) Makes Christmas time so much easier to enjoy baking and frosting cookies and such since I have most of the meal already taken care of.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.As my children are now adults and our numbers are increasing which is one of our greatest blessings, I’ve asked each family to bring at least one thing to share. I always end up spending so much time on my feet that I’m exhausted come the day of. I’m trying to avoid that this year. Hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I cook, peel and mash sweet potatoes the day before and put them in a casserole dish. On Thanksgiving I just have to prepare the pecan topping and bake. I also assemble the green bean casserole (except for the fried onions) and cheesy potatoes the day before to eliminate mess and stress the day of the big meal. I also make the cranberry sauce a couple days in advance. The night before I set the table. I feel so much more organized when I only have to schedule baking times for the hot dishes and get the cold things out on Thanksgiving day. It’s so much nicer to serve a meal with a relatively clean kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One of my favorite tips for all of the holiday cooking is to use the crockpot in creative ways. This year I’m making garlic mashed potatoes Thanksgiving morning, and placing them in the crock pot (with a little extra butter) to keep them hot and ready to serve… And it’s just nice to know I won’t have to worry about mashing potatoes at the last minute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I use my crockpots for as much as possible to free up my oven.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the help! I can use a lot of these tips year round. You are an inspiration!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We have Christmas at my sister’s every year. Fortunately she only lives 2-3 miles way. Everything that can be prepared the day before is and left at my sister’s. Anything that will not spill is brought to my house for the next day. My mother gives strict instructions on what oven tempuratures and times each dish takes and which dishes can be cooked together. When the food at my house is done, we drive it over to my sister’s where the finishing touches are done. This cuts our cooking time in half!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I got tired of digging for the old traditional recipes at the last minute so I have put together a book which is divided into each holiday. When I need to make my grocery list and/or begin cooking I have everything in one place. I am now putting together a duplicate book for my daughter to add to her hope chest.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is not necessarly for thanksgiving but more a prep for Chriatmas. We put all the itwms we want to pack away for decoraring to the side. As we empty boxes of decorarions we put the year round items in them so they are out of the way.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is a popular one…plan ahead!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I put any pantry items on the counter the night before. All frozen items are put in the same area, in the same freezer. Once the turkey is in the oven, time to prep for the rest. I like the idea from Darren (above) of lighting candles or boiling fruit peels to scent the air. Thank you for all your great ideas. Have a great family Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Many people fret too much about the insignificant things such as making sure the table is set just right or this or that is perfect. Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family and be thankful. This is what truly matters! No one will remember if the cool whip wasn’t sitting perfectly on top of the pumpkin pie, but they will remember if you spend more time with that pie than with them!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This is such a helpful list, and I don’t know what I could add to it to share. But, I like to delegate that way I’m not doing all the work myself. That is my best prep tip…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Just found your blog and love all the tips and recipes. Love giveaways too. Happy Thanksgiving
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip. Before holiday cooking…pour a little wine, play some great music and enjoy the memories you’re about to create!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Looking forward to having a go at our first gluten free Thanksgiving this year!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to plan ahead and prep ahead of time to make Entertaining more fun
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This would be good for the coming Thanks giving and Holiday Seasons.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make sure I wash and press ny table cloths and napkins. I always do as much preparation ahead of time as possible so that I can enjoy the holiday without getting stressed! Our family does a potluck style thanksgiving since no one has enough ovens to cook everything at once. :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Crockpots are awesome for keeping food warm…sometimes there just isn’t enough room in the oven or on the stove so use that crockpot!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.December is so busy that thorough house-cleaning is nearly impossible, so if guests are coming over and you haven’t been able to get the house in ship-shape, keep the lighting low by using the lights on your Christmas tree and strategically placed candles. If you have a dimmer switch on your lamps and/or overhead lights, that works, too! This also creates a warm atmosphere.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.this is a nice article, i like it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I plan in advance what will go in each serving dish, I set up 3 crockpots on the patio, and use my grill to “bake” my meats outside on my patio. That leaves more space inside for serving inside and frees up my oven for side dishes and breads. I try to do as much advance work as possible, so I spend the day with family and friends instead of in the kitchen. I try to use good refrigerator management so that I have room to thaw my meats and store my fruits and veggies, but my poor fridge is always stuffed. This is the one time of the year where I wish I had an extra refrigerator!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great tips! I’d add polish silver!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I start preparing a few day’s before Thanksgiving, the night before I peel and dice my potato’s and soak them in a pan of water in the fridge. I dice up my celery and onions for my oyster dressing and soak them in the fridge also. I have all my baking done the day before and the turkey in the oven overnight on 200 degree’s and so on Thanksgiving I just have to do a few small things and i’m finished. This way I have more time to spend with the family.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have difficulty with organization and time management. The things that help me out are doing a lot of the housework the weekend before the big day so I can focus better. I like to bake the day before and cut some of the vegetables to have ready for T-Day. The most important part is enjoying the time with the loved ones!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip is to do as much prep work in advance as I can. That way Thanksgiving is a more relaxed day for me.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to make as much ahead of time as I can. I make my noodles 2 weeks ahead and freeze. Make my pies the night before. Anything I can do ahead of time works, so that I am not exhausted by the time my family arrives!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My prep includes cleaning all the nooks and crannies (fans, vents, refrigerator, stove, etc)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to have a few gifts wrapped to put under the Christmas tree that night when we set it up. It makes it so exciting for our little ones.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to clean some every day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I count my blessings while I am preparing and cooking. I love sharing new ideas. I also go over the old recipes with my children and grandchildren helping me cook. I tell them the story behind the recipes, and any little extra secret that is not written on the card.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do everything I can ahead of time, don’t know how else to keep it simple!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to be sure and have the EO’s on hand!!! I have as much prepped as I can before hand and I try and breathe and relax. I think this year we are going to try a new Holiday tradition, even though I don’t know what that is yet!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan simple meals the week of Thanksgiving. I do a lot of soup & sandwiches (Panini’s) and Crock pot meals. It give me extra time to get all the other things on my list done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prepare all the food prior to the day of the gathering and throw things in the crockpots and Nesco cookers the day of it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Preparation Tip #1: Locate key to your china cabinet several days before your big dinner! My key has disappeared, the cabinet builder is no longer in business and I don’t know how to pick the locks.
Tip # 2: Have disposable paper plates and saucers, cups and plastic forks on hand
Please log in or create a free account to comment.in case # 1 doesn’t work out.
Have little dots or something ready to put on the bottom of platters and dishes people bring so you can identify the owners later after the food is cleaned up and put away. Also let go of it when the day arrives, there is nothing more you can do what will be will be and what’s most important is that you get to relax and enjoy your family and friends and they you. Trust me everyone will eat and everyone will enjoy themselves especially if they get to enjoy you as well as each other.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip has already been mentioned but I’ll repeat it. As an aging Mom and Grannie, my perspective on some things has changed over the years. Spending time with my family and loved ones is far more important than cooking to impress and exceed.
It seems that our holidays are so much more enjoyable when everyone is relaxed, helping out here and there, and there aren’t so many dishes prepared than we could possibly eat. It’s about time together and counting our blessings, and enjoying the good foods.
Do as much as is possible ahead of time, take care of yourself, take – and have someone else take – lots of pictures, candid and posed.
And as someone else said, BREATHE!
Hope each and everyone of you has a blessed Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do a lot of cookies, and instead of freezing each kind in its own tin, I have a few large tins that I put an assortment of all my cookies in. So when I want to do a plate of cookies, I grab a large tin and use everything in it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep a snack area on your table or in the refrigerator. Guests sometimes want a late night snack. I keep cookies or cake slices on the table. Individual juices, waters, fruit readily available and easy to access in the frig.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip… know what you love to do for entertaining…
If you love to cook sit down dinners, invite people over for dinner.
If you are into a bit more freedom in your party, do a bunch of appetizers and let people eat what they want…
I vary from year to year but have learned to trust my gut on which one to do each year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prepare as much ahead as i can, make sure i get plenty of rest before the big day and not stress over mishaps.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is delegation. Each family member is responsible for a dish. I’m making the rolls from scratch this year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Be ready for the little visitors. Check games, colored pencils and markers, get coloring books, locate the dvd’s.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always create a menu two weeks ahead, prep the day before, have a glass of wine while cooking, and enlist all willing hands to help. It’s always a family affair!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep everything possible ahead of time. Slice, dice, chop and label all the bits you can. Keep it simple. Thanksgiving is about family so don’t spend all your time in kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have a little simmer pot I use to scent the house. I add whole cloves and orange peels to the water. Doesn’t take long till the whole house is scented.
I actually haven’t hosted the meal for several years now which is good in a way. It’s just too much for me these days both financially and energy wise since being on SSDS. I do however bring a large beautiful salad to whomever is hosting. It’s always a hit since it is chock full of goodies like yellow & red bell pepper, Jerusalem artichokes, celery, jicama, finally chopped cauliflower, broccoli & home grown alfalfa sprouts. My budget is able to handle this due to the wonderful farmers market in my city. They have super low prices & I love helping the local farmers. Some of them travel as much as 3 hours to get there. I am so thankful to them. They are a real blessings.
A very Happy Thanksgiving to you & your family Jillee.
I am thankful to you for all the great tips you have been providing ! :-)
Blessings,
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Liliane
My tip is to divide up making the meal between family members. My brothers (all grown with our own families) and I each claim what we will be contributing to the meal, that way no one person has to feel overwhelmed making everything. It also took all the pressure off my parents so they could enjoy the grandkids.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple. Have foods made in advance. Use crock pots. Sometimes a full blown meal is too much if families are going to different families that day. Dips and finger foods are great to have for people coming and going. Time spent with others is precious, that is what should be important, not the crazy details or perfect meal.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for all your tips, I smiled as I read your post as I just cleaned my oven yesterday and plan to clean out the fridge today. I would love to have your gift certificate to replace some of my flatware
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We do a planned shared dinner so we are only bringing the potatoes for 35 people…well, along with 2 pies, table decorations, paper plates, etc.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.set the table the night before!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep and cook some of your vegetables days ahead, to save you some time!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax and accept help!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I buy the premade large boxes of appetizers at my local Sam’s club.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A great tip is to take a little time for yourself to. Go read or take a bath. A great stress reliever which is needed to help you focus on your task.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to use lots of lists. It is so satisfying to mark items off! Almost as satisfying as having a clean home and all the food prepped! LOL!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.These are some great tips!! Thanks :) One thing I like to do is to purchase, or better yet, create a game for the children to play. This helps give the adults time to visit, cook, ect. You can create a scavenger hunt in the yard for the older kids and buy a little $5 game at walmart for the little ones. The game they really seem to like is that elephant one where the little butterflies fly out of the trunk and the kids catch them. If you are in a crafty mood you could make a stand with a scenery background and make a bunch of felt props and people for the little ones to stick to the board and create a sort of puppet show. Just some ideas to keep the kids entertained without having to stick them in front of the T.V.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Remember to charge your camera batteries and movie taking devices the day before Thanksgiving! Never miss a moment!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.When my husband and I were first married, I accidentally cooked the turkey upside down. Now I do it intentionally because it makes the white meat so tender. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We are hosting Christmas, and we have a big house we are renting… SO we have room for all. However, because this is not our permanent home, there are several things that won’t look so “homey.” Regardless, we will set up a long table to eat at, family will bring side dishes, grandma will brings center pieces and table cloths, and the day before I will be taking a detox bath courtesy of Jillee’s home made recipe that I have been using for about a year now.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip for those in warmer climes is to take the celebrations outdoors!! I live in Northern AZ and while we can get snow in Nov… last year it was perfectly beautiful and we took our Thanksgiving to the Lake and enjoyed grilling our pre-cooked turkey legs and prepped veggies outdoors. We played card games, took a hike, paddled our kayaks, played badminton and ate and ate and ate! AND no one’s home had to be cleaned and then trashed by a bunch of guests, and on top of all that we had the lake to ourselves of course so it was pretty special and fantastic all the way around. We plan for a repeat performance this year if the weather cooperates!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.In my family, we always try to take a final look at the menu and cut it down by a couple of dishes. There is always too much food anyway, and even cutting the menu by 1-3 things can be a big help on stress level and enjoyment. Happy Holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a list for the day before and the day of thanksgiving …makes the days go much smoother.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan a list of things to do for each day leading up to the event. Getting a little done at a time will keep you from feeling stressed.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep as much as you can ahead of time! Pot luck is fabulous.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do some of the prep up to a week before. I always keep chopped onions and bell peppers in the freezer since I put some in almost everything I cook. I replenish my stocks before major events. Pie crusts can also be made and frozen a week in advance.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Send the kids out with my husband for a few hours on Thanksgiving morning. Gives me time to get everything in the kitchen started so we can all sit and watch the parade together when they get back.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make anything you can early; one less thing to do the day of!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is a comment. Don’t weat the small stuff. Plan easy meals. Spend time with family, that is more important that decorations and fancy food.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t sweat the small stuff. Really, it’s not worth it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Oh, and alcohol for the time you spend with crazy relatives-you know, the ones that drive you nuts.
My holiday entertaining tip is to have plenty of appetizers on hand for those delicious-smelling, agonizing hours before the feast!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Work as a family. Let your children watch you work and teach as you go. The Monday before Thanksgiving we all hit the family room. A list is created of all that needs to be cleaned, organized or fixed. All of us pick what to do and in record time the room is clean and ready for family.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax. If you do, they will!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to make as many things as possible ahead of time. Potato salad can be made the day before. Also pies. I get my Mac and cheese assembled the day before, leaving just the baking for Thanksgiving day. We have ham rather than turkey so no cooking there. We try to make it as easy as possible so family can spend time together.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to make sure I have a pumpkin pie alternative like ice cream or cupcakes for the kids. Little ones tend not to be a fan of pie!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I also suggest spending some time in your guest room if you are going to have out of town guests. Make sure the clock is set correctly, extra blankets & towels, bottled water or a carafe for them so they don’t have to fumble around in the dark, reading material available, etc. Would you want to stay in your guest room?
I loved everyones comments and am happy to report my table is set. Husband is frying 2 turkeys and oysters. all here and he is in charge. My guest are bringing all of the sides. Ordered bread and will pick up on Weds..which leaves me with time to pamper myself. Nails, hair, cloths, reading, meditating and spending time with my daughter before she goes to school in January. I am also scheduled to sit with a friend weds morning which is a joy in itself. I wish all a blessed holiday and look forward to Thursday at 2. I feel so blessed to be able to have 20 friends over to share a day of Thanksgiving with. Love and Light Patty
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A few weeks before the holiday make a large kettle of nourishing soup (like hamburger soup with cheddar cheese cubes) and pour into small container and put in freezer. Then when the ‘crazies’ hit and stress starts to mount, you’ll have a meal that will make you feel good and help to keep you from noshing on the high calorie holiday goodies.
Also I have my wonderful husband assist me in the kitchen cutting up veggies, peeling potatoes, and dish duty as we work together to prepare the feast!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to have everything prepped as much as possible before the big cooking day. I like to have at least half a day to myself to relax and prepare my mind for the tasks ahead. I wash and chop what produce I can, make sure everything in the home is spic and span.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to use cheap (but cute!) festive paper plates.. they’re fun and it leads to easy clean-up!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I put all the ingredients for each recipe (the ones that don’t need refrigerated) and put them into the pan they’ll be cooked in, or the bowl they’ll be mixed in, ALONG WITH THE RECIPE! Then highlight the items that will need to be pulled out of the fridge last minute to make the recipe. Makes it easy for anyone to walk in, pick a pan or a bowl and make the recipe!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to set the table the night before. set up a coffee/ dessert space. with the cups, sweeteners ,creamer and extra forks and plates and napkins etc all ready to go
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make up plenty of pie crust and freeze them ahead of time in the original pans that way all I have to do is add the good stuff and all done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make sure there are plenty of games to choose from to play after dinner. It gives you some breather room after dinner and helps keep your mind entertained until dessert. Someone always brings a new game to play. It’s something that my whole family looks forward to doing every year!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do deep cleaning the weeks before Thanksgiving. Make sure you have enough bedding, pillows, towels, silverware, plates, etc for your guests ahead of time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to enjoy your family. Don’t sweat the small stuff. If things aren’t as perfect as you would like, don’t mention it and no one else will probably even notice!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to start early and do a little extra every day, be it cooking, decorating, cleaning, wrapping, or whatever, so things don’t get overwhelming. I try to have everything done a week or so before the holidays so I can relax and enjoy my family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to do most of your prep work well ahead of time. That way when you get cooking it is all chopped up or shredded, ect. All you have to do is throw it togather(sp). I find it makes my life that much easier. To tell you the truth I get started on Tuseday with chopping and prep work. Start cooking on Wendsday and Thursday. This year I have a lot more on my plate since my mother in law died on tuseday. I offred to cook all her dished as well. I would never survive with out being organized.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prepare as much before the big day, use crock pots when possible and open the bottle of wine early
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to make a big bowl of homemade sangria. Everyone loves it and drinks lots of it! Having people tipsy and relaxed is a very good thing on a very stressful day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The years when I had a small oven and many people coming, I roasted the turkey the day before. Then we sliced the meat, cleaning the bones well. Wrapped dark & light meat separately, including some turkey broth in each package. That way the packages could be reheated while side dishes and rolls cooked and warmed in the oven. It also made for a lot less clean up on Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make a check list of things you need to do….you will feel like you have accomplished so much as you are checking things off.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.everything does not have to be totally homemade….
Please log in or create a free account to comment.semi-homemade helps to save so much time.
you can buy prepackaged stuffing and add your own ingredients to it. i.e chopped celery, sausage, onions etc.
My entertaining tip is to be sure you have all the seating you need (+3 to be safe) cleaned and arranged so folks don’t have to hunt for a place to sit or wait for you to get the folding chair out of the closet and dust the cobwebs off. Make sure the seating is mingle-friendly around a central spot (not the TV till after dinner!) like a coffee table with dips and snacks. Oh…and don’t forget the coasters.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I use sticky notes to label serving dishes ahead of time. That way I am not struggling right before
Please log in or create a free account to comment.meal time to find the right dishes. Also helps me to remember to pull out foods made ahead that I
have stored away.
We prep for the holidays partially by having our holiday celebrations on non-traditional days. This saves on the stress of travel and shopping with crowds. The main point of a day like Thanksgiving is to give time to be with and share a meal with people we love and enjoy. The actual date does not matter.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip, shared to me by my grandma, many years ago, is to start planning early. I prep as early as possible to also save time. Also, I buy my non-perishables months ahead of time to save money.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Is it telling that I use the AA tip – beware of HALT – never let yourself get too hungry, too angry, lonely (accept help!) or tired? LOL. Seriously though – I feel like sometimes we let the essentials get lost in all the mad preparations for holidays, and I think that everyone has a better time when they make sure the basics are covered first. It’s hard to enjoy anything if you’re exhausted and overwhelmed. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Our family is so big that we have to rent our villages (yes village.. Only 900 people! Ha) school cafeteria. So we all just bring a dish and all help clean up!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have already started preparing those dishes that can sit and mellow until the big day, either in the refrigerator or in the freezer and be thawed when the time comes. I pre-cut all the vegetables for the dressing and freeze ahead of time so I don’t have that hassle at the last minute. The vegetables and stock, I have in my freezer on a daily basis. I make my dressing the day or night before, refrigerate and reheat. That allows the flavors to set together as well as gives me just a tad bit more time and oven space. Remember to ask for help during the day, people are always willing to do something! Happy Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to prepare as much in advance as I can. Pies are cooked a couple days before, casseroles are prepared the night before so all I have to do is pop them in the oven. LOVE the idea of putting the mashed potatoes in the crockpot and setting the table a couple days in advance. We start playing Christmas music on turkey day, so it makes things a little more fun – everything is always better with music!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We’re doing our own cooking for the first time this year! Woohoo! We’re splitting the job with friends (neither of us have family in town), and we’re so excited. Obviously I don’t have a bunch of wisdom yet, but I will say that remembering to enjoy the prepping process is so important. I loved all the cooking and baking growing up almost as much as the actual eating! Food prep with my MIL has been some of the best bonding times with her since my hubby and I were married. Decide that the prep will be fun not stressful! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t forget to enjoy your friends and family! In the end, that’s all that matters.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always get out all the serving dishes and put a sticky note in each one saying what it will be used for. I prepare anything ahead that I can. I always make sure I have crayons and coloring books or paper so that the kids can entertain themselves. Then I make a point to walk outside or in the bedroom and breathe for a few minutes to keep myself calm – the day goes much better that way!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A couple days before, I attempt to get
Please log in or create a free account to comment.confirmation on who’s coming and if they’ll be bringing any guests (possibly a niece’s boyfriend, etc.), then I will set the table the night before to make sure I have enough utensils and seats.
Loved these tips…. I love to cook and make a huge mess but I am finding that keeping it simple works just fine and dandy!! The simpler the better!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make a list of the menu and what is needed to fix what’s on the menu. Dice all veggies needed a day ahead and cook what can be cooked ahead of time. Makes it easier Thanksgiving day for the cook!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I will be making your easy sparkling apple cider!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I just try to get out of bed! I really just clean and keep clean throughout the week leading up to it because it’s so annoying to wake up to a mess that must be cleaned before everything else that needs to be done as well.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I start cooking 2 days before the holiday to cut down on time spent preparing on the day of…. I need a clean fridge to store what I’ve made so I make sure I do that several days ahead….. there have been some holidays where I made things that could be frozen up to a week before I need them.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my tip is to do as much in advance as possible so that I can enjoy the time with family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip is to create a notebook for Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday recipes – A few years back I copied all the family favorites onto notebook pages and created the notebook titled ” Holiday Recipes”… and it’s so much easier to just grab the notebook and find them all together for each holiday.
As I prepare a dish, I lift the page out and use it to prepare that food – and then put it back into the notebook for another year. I know I have “x” number of things still to prepare by looking at the pages I’ve removed… and always feel good as I start putting them back into the notebook when foods are stored in the refrigerator for a holiday a day or two later.
It’s weather amazing how much time it saves from pulling recipes out of my card file or from the internet or from cookbooks – And of course, new recipes can be added to the notebook – and my family really appreciates the “old favorites” as well.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We divide all the cooking between the kids so no one is stuck with too much work. We all show up with our part and dinner is a success! My mom has cancer and is struggling now so the most important thing is just spending time together. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan ahead, get things done early, and ask guests for contributions if needed so you can relax and enjoy the company!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday entertaining tip is to eat, drink, and be merry.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Have everyone pitch in and help.
I love making lists so I organize everything on it in the order of which foods can be prepared a day or two ahead of time. I do as much chopping of ingredients the night before the big day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make a list and check it twice, makes for a smooth running day. Merry Christmas.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make my piecrust early in the month, roll them out into pie tins, layer saran wrap between and freeze. They are so nice to just pull out and bake. For 2 crust pies simply lift out one of the bottoms for the top.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A big bowl of homemade Chef Mix is an easy, economical, and popular make-ahead appetizer!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.make sure you have lots of ziplock bags, paper plates, and foil so your guests can take lots of leftovers home with them.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have never hosted my own thanksgiving, so I always make sure to ask the host what I can bring or if coming early to help would be appreciated. And, don’t forget the wine!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.You left out one very important aspect of holiday prep – ENLIST SOME HELP!!!! ;)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love the advice!! We pretty much knew this, but having it in black and white makes
Please log in or create a free account to comment.it much easier.
While I may not cook most dishes in a crock pot, I often transfer them to one when possible to keep everything piping hot, especially during parties when we serve lots of food buffet style.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This year my son and his wife offered to grocery shop for me (just emailed a list). She’s making a few side-dishes and pie. I also put out all my serving pieces the night before. I’d like to purchase a food warmer someday. Your list reminded me to clean my oven tonight.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m the cook wherever our family gets together. So, a week before I get all the nonperishables togeth by dish in bags or baskets. For example for each pie I prepare all the dry ingredients mixed in a ziplock bag together. That way when I get there I can put dishes together quickly and have lots of time to sit and be with my family.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Cooking can be so overwhelming. Learn to give up some of the control, and let the family pitch in. It helps ease some stress and it’s always fun when the family cooks together. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I start by making a list in October of the ingredients that will be needed for the Christmas dinner, and everytime I go shopping I get a couple of things from that list (you know, things that won’t spoil). I keep everything in a plastic storage box, so I can double check that I have all that I need. This way you don’t forget anything and it doesn’t seem so expensive as if you had bought everything in just one trip to the store.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always say a prayer for kitchen safety before too many women get in the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make a list so that nothing slips your memory. Thanks for all the useful tips, I would not have thought of a couple of them.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to always provide entertainment for the kiddos, while the mom’s help cook and the dad’s enjoy their sports…We do crafts and puzzle tables all prepared ahead of time with projects.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep ahead as much as possible!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep and clean prior to the big event.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Before I start cooking, I take big bowl/box for each dish i plan to make and put all the ingredients needed to make the dish in it. It helps me cross-check with my recipe to see if I am missing an ingredient before-hand and I am not running around in the pantry in the middle of cooking.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best holiday tip is to go to visit family. That is what we are doing for Thanksgiving. Now, Christmas, that is another story. I love to prepare as much as I can beforehand. I will bake muffins to add to breakfasts or as a snack that can just be pulled out of the freezer and warmed up.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am a list person, and I like to do as many things like shopping and prep in advanced to lower the stress. I also stick to recipes I have made before so there is a lower chance of mistakes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m cleaning out the hall closet to make room for guests’ coats and starting my Christmas baking!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Or if you have a young budding chef in your family welcome them to the kitchen by setting aside a few simple age appropriate food prep tasks for them to do too so they can feel proud that they contributed to the special Thanksgiving meal too. Those are memories they will carry with them all of their lives.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Whatever you do, keep it simple and enjoy your loved ones.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I know it is all about the meal but don’t forget about entertaining the little guys. Have games and toys appropriate for the little people in your family to keep them entertained and out of the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love your list! My tip is to also plan a grocery shopping day at least 4 days before Thanksgiving to avoid the last minute rush. I take out all my recipes and make a complete list for everything I’m making. There’s nothing more frustrating than to be halfway into a recipe on Thanksgiving Day and realize you are missing a key ingredient!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is check the farmer’s market! Sometimes even when the grocery store is sold out (not to mention a nightmare) they will have the meat and produce you need for a fraction of the price,
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I buy my celery, carrots and onion prechopped from Trader Joes. Saves a lot of time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock up on zipper bags and containers that you don’t mind leaving your house. Sending home leftovers is a great thing!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I would have to say…..just don’t stress it. If everything doesn’t come together the way you planned, it’s no biggie. :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip for entertaining is to stock up on cloth napkins – they make holiday entertaining so much classier! We always get compliments on my favorite gray hemstitched napkins.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to remember that everything does not have to be perfect.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for all your great tips…I really like reading your blog, getting your newsletters, and following you on Pintrest. All of your holiday tips are great, and so are the ones from everyone that has responded here. The best tip I can offer, that hasn’t already been shared is-Pray. Pray without ceasing. God is Who the holidays are all about, and what He cares about most is people. Keep God first in your heart and mind, and wrap all your family, friends, and even those new acquaintances in prayer. Be thankful, and enjoy :)!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Good ideas!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Lots of good tips, most of which I already do. Since I have Christmas Eve ( my family) and Christmas Day ( everybody!!) I have to really make lists and watch what I’m doing . I do use disposable for the Christmas Day, as I have 25 to 45 people. Remember to keep it simple, and it will flow better. I do basics Christmas Day, Turkey, Smoked turkey, potatoes gravy cranberry sauce, pies, drinks, cool whip. Anything else is brought by my guests, I don’t assign, but several will call and say this is what I’m bring, so we don’t have too much one, not another. I also set up a separate table with the drinks, and desserts, including the cups, plates, utinsels. Lots of work, but let others help, you will all be happier then!,
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to make sure I have an “alternative dish”. Personally, the only meats I eat are chicken & turkey. So, I like to have another option in case someone doesn’t eat turkey. It’s even better when I can make someone’s favorite dish. I just want everyone to be able to enjoy the food, conversation & each other equally… So no ones left out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock up on gladware or other containers to send guests home with leftovers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like having extra appetizers and cookie dough in the freezer so last minute guests don’t stress me out! Some faves, homemade summer sausage, pizza rolls, mini calzones, and holiday cookie dough ready to slice and bake.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Loved these ideas. You really identified the jobs I usually procrastinate and made me imagine how great it would be to have them all done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Start preparing early. Makes it less stressful and you tend to be more organized. Also, enlist others in your family for help. Trying to do it all on your own makes for a cranky mom
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to begin prepping a few days before. Anything that can be chopped before I do a day before. Any desserts, pasta salads, etc… that you serve refrigerated I make the day before as well. Then the day of I throw everything together and bake anything that’s left.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Best tip- GET TO BED EARLY!! Too many times I’ve stayed up cleaning and prepping and then felt like a zombie during the festivities. Not cool. I’ve learned that I can get those things done that I wanted to stay up to do, done twice as fast the next morning.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Try changing up where to have Thanksgiving dinner…I always do the cooking but leave cleaning and storing at my daughters house this year! What a bonus!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am doing thanksgiving for 21 this year. 2 days ahead I make the cranberry sauce and prep/chop all veggies and put the turkey in the brine. The day before prepare side dishes. Turkey the day of and first. While the turkey rests I cook the sides. Gravy is last. Can’t wait until my kids are old enough to help set the table.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I use an app called AnyList and I create a shopping list for each store that I`m going to. Whenever I run out of something,I`ll add it to my shopping list,so I won`t forget to add it later. Whenever this store is on my way,I`ll stop by and buy whatever is on my list. That`s my way of saving time and running out of stuff while I`m in the middle of doing something.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t try to please everyone with everything. All it will do is stress you out more.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have gone over the list of dishes each person is responsible for bringing, and I have double-checked the cabinets to make sure I have enough of all of the ingredients to make each of the dishes for which I’m responsible. Since we’re having one early Thanksgiving gathering at our house on Wednesday night (a late dinner after I get home from work) in addition to a gathering on Thanksgiving Day at my in-laws’ house, I will make sure that the leaves are in the table and the table is set with festive dishes and a centerpiece the night before. I will make sure any dishes have been emptied out of the dishwasher so that there’s plenty of room available for the dishes used during the meal. Anything I can make ahead, I will do so.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip is to have a plan and make a list!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is do not dress too warm and do not wear pants that fit too snug!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep food ahead of time! Chop veggies the day before. Make cranberry sauce a couple days before. If you make rolls from scratch, par-bake the rolls and toast them the day of. Mashed potatoes can be done the day before. Less work on Turkey day, and more time to enjoy the day with family. (And be thankful for all that you have been blessed with!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This year my family is BUYING a deep-fried turkey from a church fundraiser! Easy, plus the money goes to feed a needy family in our community.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to plan out “buffet style” for ease and anyone can drop in at any time! Everything is ready to go!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to share the workload and get some others to bring dishes they are known for. I love your list of prep and will start today!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Check your list 2 times so you dont forget anything i would hate to go back to the store. We are busy enough :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I pre chop celery and onions for the stuffing the night before or I buy frozen chopped onions to save prep time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Here is one tip I try to live by. Whatever it takes to make your holidays special, take the time to personally enjoy that day with family and friends. We spend far too much time worrying aobut how the day will go instead of partaking in the day’s events. We always want to look back and have memories of those days.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I don’t usually entertain. That would be my tip. Take a dish to share to someone else’s house! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try and have a few dishes prepared and oven ready the day before so I just have to stick them in the oven on the day of the event
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip for entertaining would be to do as much before hand as possible. Save yourself some time to sit back and breathe and to simply enjoy spending time with family. Take lots of pictures and cherish those priceless moments for years to come.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax…that’s my biggest thing. I don’t like chaos so that’s the first thing I get rid of in my kitchen during the holidays.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock your emergency first aid kits.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I continue with a family tradition that my mother started about 35 years ago. The holiday spaghetti sauce and meatballs takes about two days to cook. By doing everything in advance, all I need to do when it’s time for our special dinner is to cook the spaghetti noodles and broil the garlic bread. This provides me with much more time to enjoy with the family!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip that I try to remember is its better to be cooking than cleaning when guests arrive!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to prep veggies two days ahead that i can. Then one day make pie crusts, and prep appetizers. Day of just throw everything together :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I wash all bathroom rugs and linens the weekend before Thanksgiving. I also do all the shopping on the Friday before Thanksgiving because I hate the crowds the week of Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make sure to slow down and enjoy your loved ones.
Oh, and everything takes much longer than I imagine, so tack on plenty of “buffer time” in preparations.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am a list girl… I love making lists, grocery lists, baking lists, cooking lists, times to prep, handmade Christmas gifts lists. It soothes my frantic mind and helps me feel more in control during this hectic busy time :) And checking things off feels so darn good!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to start early. Bake whatever you can days before and then freeze (cookies work great). If you are feeling too stressed out hire someone to clean your house the day before. :) Oh and make sure you have a nice candle burning so that your house smells wonderful. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip? Relax! Enjoy the moments, good or bad. They all make for memories of the day. Let others help too. It takes some stress off of you and I get the best conversations this way too!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m terrible…my tip is go to your sister’s house. :-) She’s the one who does the holiday dinners.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite thing to do when entertaining for Thanksgiving is to not worry and just enjoy. When I can be relaxed as a host, I set the mood for everyone else to relax and enjoy. Laughing with friends and family over mishaps that might occur in the kitchen is far more fun than stressing about every dish turning out perfectly. My favorite Thanksgiving memories as a girl are just looking up at all the adults laughing and hugging and telling stories. Nothing beats that!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best trick is to cool as much ahead of time as possible. I make and freeze pierogi in September. Throughout the week, I will prepare dishes, and use my freezing cold garage for temporary chilling.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip is lists, lists, lists. Plan out what needs to be done, when it will get done, and who is going to do it. When it’s all written out, it’s easy to look at and see where to start. And do as much ahead of time as possible!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to get as much prepped early as possible! And delegate!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We always make a list of what we are cooking, who is bringing what and a list of groceries that we need. We start planning at least a month in advance to make sure we have everything we need.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip. Clean as you go!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I start cooking on Sunday and get as much pre-cooked as possible.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip: Don’t Stress! It will all come together in the end and we all end up stressing over things way too much! Take a deep breath and destress, that’s my best tip!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to give jobs/assignments to other guests. I think it makes everyone a little more comfortable when they have a purpose in the meal. It also allows everyone a piece of the compliments. It really bring a sense of togetherness to the meal.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to have things on hand for the kids to do. Crayons or puzzles…quiet activities for the table. Also, don’t forget to relax and take a group photo to remember the day. Happy thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My helpful holiday tip is to first make a list of all the menu items you will be making. Then pull out each recipe and make a list of all of the ingredients you need to purchase, categorized by store. Working backwards, from Thanksgiving Day, make a list of everything you need to do each day to prep each menu item. Some menu items can be prepped several days before, so prep them early to save time on Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We start prep a week early. The best way is to involve the kids…they are excited and so proud of their involvement.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make sure to have lots of little jobs to let guests help with- When someone asks to help I give them a job, whether it’s peeling carrots or making sure the wine is chilled. Many hands make light work and guests like to feel useful :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock up on cream cheese! My local stores always run out!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.mY TIP IS TO MAKE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN IN ADVANCE SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO RUSH AROUND THE DAY OF ENTERTAINING AND YOU CAN ENJOY YOUR GUESTS.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to have very simple appetizers easily accessible for little ones and even hungry teens. Putting out cheese cubes, crackers, grapes and baby carrots (or whatever combination you choose) makes waiting for the big meal easier on younger guests and their parents. I know parents often want children to wait, but holiday meals are often not at regular meal times and I prefer to not have kids melt down just before the meal because they got too hungry.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to make as much as possible ahead of time so I can enjoy the company.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.i like to have out several board games as it is nice to have the fun interaction without video games….scrabble, pictionary, trivial pursuit, monopoly, clue, etc.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I forgot to add my hint ! I like to put mulled apple cider in the crockpot during the day of cooking ~ that way the house smells wonderful before we start ~ and little sips keep us hydrated and happy :) Like many of the above commenters, I prepare what I can before the busy cooking day. Thanks for the opportunity to win the giveaway and for all the wonderful ideas from you and your readers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the helpful hints!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t try to make everything at once. Make your pie the day before. Chop your vegetables. Anything you can do prior to Thanksgiving decreases your workload on the day of.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Buy all of those cute holiday themed paper supplies off season when they are on clearance and keep stocked up, so that you have them on the ready!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Always have something for everyone. It could be a certain dish, fragrance, movie, etc. If you have something for everyone then no one feels left out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip for this year: This Thanksgiving is going to be a tight one for us, so I took the pumpkin from Halloween and cooked it up so I would have tasty pumpkin pies this year. One medium pumpkin turned out 9 cups!
I also have my list of what everyone else is bringing this year, so I know what I need and when they call me and ask, I have it close by. Some people get so frantic. lol
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my tip for this year quality over quantity
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A couple days before Thanksgiving we make sure we have all of the Christmas decorations out of storage and ready to put up. That way after Thanksgiving dinner the whole family can help decorate the tree together!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.While this may not be an exciting tip, I am buying pre made salads because I don’t have fridge space and I want to enjoy my family. Thanks for all the tips, by the way!! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My advise for anyone on any day is to clean as you go. Fill one side of your sink with dish soap and water or fill a small dishpan. That way you can quickly clean an area between tasks.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the tips ~ I found them very helpful, and appreciate you adding lists of items plus links for cleaning! Also thanks for the chance at the giveaway!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I get my table set at least a week before the big day. I set the table w/ all the plates and glasses upside down so they won’t get dusty, and I set the serving dishes on the table upside down as well. This way I know that everything will fit!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is an easy one – get invited to a friend’s house and bring a dish to share :-) Or go out to your favorite restaurant. There’s just the two of us and it’s too much effort to cook turkey and the trimmings for just us.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We keep the dining casual and buffet-style. I prep as many things the day before as possible. We also cook the turkey the day before and take it off the bones. The meat is still moist for the Thanksgiving meal, we don’t have to wait for a turkey that doesn’t want to cook, and the oven is free for the last minute items like rolls!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The best advice is to make as much as possible the day before!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love your site Jillee! I get inspired by both your project topics as well as the readers’ comments. I made a list several years ago AFTER Thanksgiving was over so I could know what worked and what didn’t and I still use that list today. Mainly it is all about the prep/organization. Sometimes the unexpected makes the most memorable get togethers though!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a list of everything that needs to be done/made and then put it order from stuff that can be done the days before up until the day of. It helps me see what actually needs to be done and I don’t get stressed out trying to do it all the day of. I also delegate the stuff that I don’t really have a “right or wrong” way to the hubby :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Organize your menu ahead of time, then when someone asks what they can bring, you can delegate one of the dishes to them :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I made a thick, padded, reversible table runner that’s long and wide enough to replace all the ugly, mismatched potholders we usually use. Now the table top and tablecloth are protected in style and the runner might be the only thing that needs to go into the washing machine afterwards.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to get everything done ahead of time. All the side dishes and the setting of the table, etc. Then on the day you can put everything in the oven and relax!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Toaster ovens are great for baking rolls and stuffing and other small dishes while the turkey keeps roasting, undisturbed, in the big oven. And one can never have too much pie (baked the day before, of course)!
And I’ve found that it is awfully nice for a guest, whether they sleep in a guest room or on the living room floor, to have a lamp or at least a flashlight right there. It makes nighttime trips in an unfamiliar house much easier, and it is so nice to be able to read and turn out the light without climbing out of bed.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you can, delegate and ask your guests to help out with food. Less expense and work for you and your guests probably want to help anyway.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Clean as you go! Before doing anything else I fill my dish pan with hot soapy water. Spills, splatters & drips in the refrigerator, stove/oven & counters are wiped immediately. I keep paper towels (only time of the year I buy them) for floor clean-ups. The favorite cooking tools are washed after each use and air dried in a mini dish drain (instead of–oh no its in the running dishwasher & now I have to wait or interrupt the dw cycle). I dump the dish pan water as it gets dirty, & set it up for the next round.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Clean as you go! I’ve been known to triple or quadruple line the kitchen garbage can so the bag can whisked away with barely a hiccup.
Clean as you go! Wash that odd sized item by hand as soon as its job is done, so you dishwasher doesn’t have to sacrifice the space. It takes about 30 seconds to wash it by hand. Let it drip dry a bit, then dry it by towel & put it away.
Clean as you go! I keep a larger than usual recycle bucket in the kitchen to keep up with me.
Clean as you go! Keep an extra large container on hand to hold the large quantity of egg shells, fruit & vegetable scraps that are going to the compost pile.
Clean as you go! Quick sweep the floor every hour.
Oh & don’t rush–if dinner is at four and its running late–no one cares–especially if appetizers were served.
I always do as much as possible before everyone gets there, I make one turkey up a few days before so I will have room in my oven for things that need to be made that day. I always set the tables up the night before to help make sure that I will have enough room for everything and everyone, then we have to use paper plates until dinner :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The best way for me to make it through the holidays is to make my lists and take time to have a good nap and a soothing bath with some lavender salts so that I’m feeling ready to tackle whatever comes my way.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I bake cakes ahead of time and put in the freezer (wrapped VERY well in Saran Wrap of course). It gives the flavors time to “mesh” together and makes them easier to frost as well! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love this list! This year the dinner is at our house, and I’m under doctor’s orders not to “overdo,” so my husband is helping out with the cooking for the very first time (and we’ve been married 41 years). He is much more obsessive about a clean kitchen than I ever was, so he spent most of the weekend rearranging the cupboards, washing all the plastic containers that haven’t been washed in a while, and cleaning the stove.
I have to admit this is nice, but I don’t want him to overdo either! I’m going to send him this list so he can put things in perspective. A lot of things are already done (we write the date we purchase spices on the packages when we bring them home, so it’s easy to weed them out later) but we do need to clean the dishwasher (my husband bought commercial dishwasher cleaner already) and mop the floor. Our kitchen is very small and the house was built in 1930, so we’ve already maximized our use of space and there isn’t much clutter to de. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite thing to do is boil a big pot of water with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, apple pie spice, pumpkin pie spice, etc. all daylong to perfume the house with the smells of Fall!!!
I do this all season long. Try it. Nancy
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m a list maker so having a to-do list handy keeps me on track. I like to keep it visible so I always know what still needs to be done…also so anyone who is pitching in knows as well!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We share responsibity at Thanksgiving. We eat at my brother’s house, so me and my daughter make pies the day before. Great tips here. Love your blog and all the good things you share with us.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to always have access to children’s movies so that they will have something to keep them occupied.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Always wash dishes as you use then when cooking large dinners or entertaining so that you don’t have a big pile waiting for you at the end of the party. It also cuts down on clutter in small kitchens.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to sprinkle candied orange peel as a garnish for desserts and candy. It easily makes everything look a little fancier!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you are going to have a potluck to ease the cost of one persons thanksgiving burden make sure you assign or keep a list so you don’t end up with 4 dishes of stuffing
Please log in or create a free account to comment.When preparing a buffet table, I use sticky notes with the food names on them so that when other people are helping me bring hot dishes to the table, they’ll know exactly where to place them!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always set my table the night before, so that is out of the way..And always..lists,lists,lists.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip is simple but makes a huge difference in ones enjoyment of the holiday. In all the rush and madness of preparing then cleaning up, don’t forget to slow down, take off that apron, and sit down with your friends and family for some good “chat” time. It’s so easy to get busy and forget to actually spend quality time with your guests!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to keep no-prep snacks available for un-expected (or expected) visitors. Chips, veggies, dips etc.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try not to stress and go overboard with all the cleaning……give it a good clean after all the activities. Do it sorta pot luck style…..I do the main course and they fill in with all the others, then enjoy the good food and all your friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We buy containers to send leftovers home with the guest which they can keep. No worries at the end of the meal about getting your Tupperware back and where to store all the leftovers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make and freeze ahead favorite holiday desserts…I have an easy recipe for a frozen Kahlua pie that’s always a hit and I usually keep some frozen cookie dough around the holidays. When last minute guests are on the way pop a batch of cookies in the oven. Nothing smells more cozy and welcoming than freshly baked cookies. Can do the same thing for last-minute entrees like homemade cornbread and a batch of chili, lasagna, pulled pork.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have 6 kids so this year we bought a table cloth just for them to color on, it was only 3 dollars and they can color and spill and when it’s over we can throw it out!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The night before a holiday, I always: 1) set the table; 2) prep the veggies; 3) figure out cooking times so everything is always done together; 3) chill beverages; 4) cover the dessert table with a tablecloth and arrange the centerpiece. Everything I do the night before helps with a stress free holiday.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Each year my husband gives me the gift of not having to be in the kitchen for holiday meals! We always eat Christmas and Thanksgiving dinner out. Lots of energy left over for all the rest of the holiday month that way!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My mom sends out a list via email with all the dishes (one home at a time) everyone sends back with their name by at least one dish that they are bringing over. This way all the work is divided up, so there is less expense pushed onto a single home, and less work on her (the host). Seems to work really well.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Go go to grandmas!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I set the table the night before and all the serving dishes with notes inside of them as to what goes in them. I leave the vegtable & cheese tray for guest that want to help.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always try to have a couple of appetizers made up in advance to help with “always hungry” boys
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Our family does as much of the prep work a few days in advance: chopping veggies, Green bean casserole prepped and ready for oven etc. Also… we get the table set the day before so Thanksgiving Day is less stressful.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep as much as you can ahead of time and enjoy the actual day with friends and family! Everything mught not go perfect and that’s ok!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Catch up on as much laundry as you can before your company comes over. There’s nothing worse than running out if clean sheets or towels when you have people over. And if you use Jillee’s laundry soap recipe like I do, it won’t cost you much at all!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to plan, bake and make everything you can in advance. This will allow you to enjoy the day more.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you are having a big gathering, have everyone bring something. It takes the load off of you to buy and cook everything, plus it lets everyone bring a favorite recipe. And make sure to play some party games. They keep everyone entertained and engaged!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip….when you run out of something and only need a dab to make it work.. sending hubby to store…..for goodness sake …send him to salad bar to get just a dab…,He can AT LEAST handle it at the salad bar. For instance, I needed bacon for soup for goodness sake.. how do you pick out bacon.. oh for pete’s sake go to the salad bar and get a scoop. It worked out so well. I get it from the salad bar now, too. I didn’t have to fry it either. Black olives .. same thing.
Everyone have a great Holiday season. W
Please log in or create a free account to comment.don’t stress!!! no one expects perfection! it’s all about having fun! bring on the games! serve good wine and coffee…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to get my table linens out early and double-check for stains, etc. I wash if needed and iron so they are crisp and clean for the big day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prep, prep and more prep. Then open the wine or pour the mimosas and enjoy the day with family and friends. Count your blessings and give everyone an opportunity to participate by bringing wine, side dishes, chopping veggies or doing the dishes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I will be having my Thanksgiving dinner at the church where I belong. I am a divorced mother of two grown children. My son is in the navy and is in San Diego My daughter lives in Tenn and will go to her father’s side of the famiy for Thanksgiving. I will help serve the homeless and the less fortunate have a great Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to get all the serving pieces set out & labeled what’s to go into them. It makes it easy as people arrive with their contributions for the meal what to do with them without my being pulled it 4 directions at once.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to do as much as possible ahead of time so I can relax with my guests
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My family almost always does “pot-luck” for holidays. Whoever is hosting usually makes the turkey and maybe a few other things, while everyone who is coming brings sides, pies, rolls, and whatever else. And, everyone pitches in afterward to clean up. It makes hosting much less exhausting!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love singing karaoke. Karaoke Christmas Carols, anyone?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My biggest help is making a list, as others have suggested. I list my dishes, cooking times and temps, and order of cooking. Otherwise, I’ll do like I did one year when I discovered the cranberry sauce prepared but forgotten in the refrigerator after the meal was eaten, or the year I realized I left two things to cook at the very last, and they took widely different temperatures.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The other thing I do is start a few days before (probably tonight) with prepping for the table — I’ll pull out my silver and polish it if needed, wash out the crystal and check the china (which stays covered). I’ll pull out my good tablecloth and press it and the napkins. I love using my pretty things, so the extra work it takes doesn’t bother me.
My tip is to help remind myself and family members what we are celebrating- Thanks Giving. Lay out small pieces of paper, fun pens and pencils, and a festive jar/bowl/cup. Have each family member and guest write out things they are thankful for and fill that container up. Some people will fill out one paper, some many. Then during the meal or some other appropriate time, go through the pile of Thanks Giving Notes and read them together. This will create great conversation and warm memories and help set our focus for the season :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I work in retail, so planning is essential! I bring snacks and desserts and have a teenie tiny kitchen so getting stuff done early, staying organized and cleaning up as I go along allows me more time to spend with my family!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I find out in advance what people like to drink for beverages, so I can make sure that I have that on hand. We pretty much only have water on hand for “soft beverages”, so I have to plan for these.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the list – it helps one feel not so overwhelmed. How about a quick inventory of the freezer? You might come across something you need to to use up – that would make breakfast or lunch a little easier!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make a list of every dish I am serving. Then I write down the time it takes to cook and what temperature it has to be at. Then I rewrite the list in order that I will need to prepare them. This helps me stay sane when I’m juggling 5-7 sides and the turkey each year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My husband helps out by doing all the dishes as I do the cooking. It sure helps to have things cleaned up as I go along.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Lists! For everything. Planning makes it all a breeze.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.AND get out those recipes…don’t leave it to memory on exact measurements of Aunt Martha’s famous sweet potato pie.
Thanks for the opportunity to win such a great gift, and thank you for allowing us all to post our comments. We love your site!!!
Personally, I’m really big into making categories and lists. That way I can easily see what needs to be done for-lets say-the cleaning, cooking and decorating. As I progress on the list I make sure to cross out what has been done. This, I find, helps me to stay calm and brings a sense of accomplishment when I can actually see what has all been crossed off!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to not try to everything yourself. Allow others to help with food and cleanup.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to keep a couple jars of turkey gravy ready as a back up. Making gravy is always the most stressful thing for me and it’s done at the very last minute. No one wants a gravy disaster, but just in case, you’ll have the jarred gravy there. It makes me less stressed and relaxed. I’ve never had to use it in all the years I’ve been cooking Thanksgiving, but having it there brings me some calm. We usually just use it up with leftovers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I think I also saw someone else post this tip but there’s nothing like the smell of simmering spiced cider (you can make it in a crock pot with the lid off) to greet guests and make the house feel cozy and welcoming. Plus you & your guest can sip it while waiting for the meal to be served!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.While I don’t often host – only one of me and many others to visit, I find that researching and planning my menu out ahead of time is invaluable. I bookmark recipes, make a list of what’s needed, shop a bit at a time so as not to take the financial hit all at once. I’ll also parcel out the dessert so I don’t have to worry about it. Then I’ll assess my timing for what can be done the week before, a few days ahead, the morning of etc. This has proven to give me the optimum amount of time to visit and spend with my guests.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I hate asking for help – but it really does make a big difference to have my husband help in the end! Two people can always get things done faster than one. I also like to split my tasks up into different days if I can so that I don’t feel overwhelmed.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love a sort of potluck Thanksgiving celebration. I cook the turkey, dressing, and a couple of other basics, maybe salad and a pie or two. The guests bring their favorite holiday dishes, and most years I don’t even know what folks are bringing until they show up. We have a lovely mix of foods, sometimes from other countries, uually some old-fashioned traditional foods, and it’s easy for me and fun for everyone. When some guests don’t know each other, their dishes ae sure-fire conversation starters.
Thanks for the chance to win!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One of my holiday entertaining tips is to let everyone help. Be prepared to have each person (young or older) provide a way to contribute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you have a kids’ table at your holiday get-together, use butcher paper as a table cloth that the kids can color on! :) Keeps them occupied before and after the meal.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This is late for this year but you can do after Thanksgiving and have it for next and so on. Make a list of everything you had to do to get ready for Turkey day. I mean everything, from creating the menu down to cooking the meal. Then turn it into a Thanksgiving checklist starting 3 weeks before the event. For example, 3 weeks before you begin planning your menu, 2 weeks before you finalize your menu & 1 week before you go grocery shopping. I made a checklist over 7 years ago and still use it to this day & I have never had to stress about any part of this celebration.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prepared a lot of dishes ahead of time. We try many methods to cook the bird. It’s always ready earlier than planned. So I don’t save anything to do except gravy right before serving. It makes the holiday so much easier, I have time to spend with guests and have more fun. We use two crock pots, one for mashed potatoes and one for stuffing. I make my own cranberry whole and jellied sauces. Pies done ahead. And, when I remodeled the kitchen two years ago, added an extra small oven. It’s primarily used throughout the year for bread. Holidays: it does side dishes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.What a great list!
I say give yourself some grounding, meditating or yoga, the morning of. This will make life calm and you have to give to yourself before you can give to others :)
Peace & Blessings~
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make sure to precook and put together whatever I can ahead of time. I also make the liquor store/grocery store run as far ahead as possible. No stress the days before makes for a happy cook! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Take plenty of photos so you can remember all of the fun!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always make up by menu and grocery list at least a week or two in advance so I can take advantage of specials. I make as many things ahead of time as possible then make up a cooking schedule for the day of so I can be sure to get everything ready at the same time. As my kids have gotten older the schedule has been a good way for them, my husband and son-in-law to know what needs to be done when without them having to ask me or me having to track people down and give instructions.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.To stay on top of the holiday and/or company in general I keep the table set in theme and bake cookies.
1st tip: With two curious cats in my home, I flip every place setting over on the table, to be flipped back just before company arrives.
2nd tip: Regardless of your climate, keep a piece of sandwich bread in the container with baked goods. They will stay moist and flavorful for a much longer time. Swap out the bread as it gets stale… not your creations. Sandwich bread has never failed me, ever.
Happy Holidays!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Making a List and checkn’ it twice~then set out to get all of my food for the big day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Next is to have all recipes ready to go.
Happy Thanksgiving to All~and remember to be Thankful for what you have.
I always accept help in the kitchen! Even though I can handle the cooking, and usually it is easier to just do it myself, I always say “yes” when someone offers to help. I know that sometimes there can be “too many cooks in the kitchen,” but to me, that is what the holidays are all about! Guests feel like they are contributing and I can keep trying to do it all alone!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Clean as I go. That way I’m not stuck with a HUGE mess at the end. Oh, and have lots of alcohol. If something’s screwed up, then no one will notice!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set up a drink station so guest can help themselves upon arrival. Also, keep paper towels, mop, etc. handy to clean up spills. Most importantly have fun and don’t stress everything always works out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock up and prep easy appetizers like a variety of cheeses, crackers, veggies, and finger foods so you are always ready for company!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My biggest tip? DON’T STRESS! I know we all want to do our best make make everything look and taste amazing, but this is also a time to be thankful for what you have and spend time with the people you love. Don’t get so stressed out about making everything perfect that you forget to enjoy life.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is super easy and helpful! Try cleaning as you bake/cook for the holidays. This helps the clean up at the end and also helps if you have guest show up early your kitchen isn’t a mess!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We smoke our turkey outside (hubby does this) and then I try to do desserts, salads and even some veggies ahead of time. My dressing is made in the crockpot (thanks to recipe from Mr. Food) and turns out great every time. This saves on last minute running around, because most everything just needs to be reheated and set out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to Prep thing before Thanksgiving by making a list.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Happy Thanksgiving to all~
I always make sure to light my candles about an hour before I’m expecting company. That way the whole house smells heavenly when everyone arrives!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We have a Thanksgiving committee that goes over the hits and misses of previous years. I also begin shopping and deep cleaning about 3 weeks in advance.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep everything before so I can visit with family on Thanksgiving. The Turkey goes in the morning of, and while he is resting the sides go in for a thorough warm-up. I make a few appetizers to munch while we are playing games until dinner and get to spend time with my family and catch up and plan for the holidays.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Eat out!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make some of your side dishes ahead. For instance you can make dressing and sweet potato casserole ahead. Having these dishes already assembled makes Thanksgiving day a lot more relaxed. It’s all a matter of putting them in the oven or crockpot to finish. You’ll have more time to visit and enjoy your guests. Also, make double batches when you’re assembling, then freeze to cook and eat later between Thanksgiving and Christmas when you’re busy with other things.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Making my mother’s pumpkin soup to serve friends and family when they arrive. Let’s everyone mingle and enjoy while I finish the main cooking. And it makes the whole house smell like Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always use post-it’s to label all of my serving dishes ahead of Thanksgiving/Christmas dinner, so that when guests ask if they can help , they can easily see which dish is for mashed potatoes and which platter is for the turkey, etc. Works great and saves some extra time!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a list of everything that needs to go in the oven with temps and times. I see what I can possibly put in at the same time. I start with the lowest temp and go up from there.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I also make a list of everything I have with the quantities and when everyone has gone home, I note what I need more or less of next year.
I have my daughter get started on thanksgiving crafts early so that she has fun and that part of preparation is done and ready.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love the tips, as always. I’m a procrastinator, so these will help. Can’t wait to work on the turkey and all the trimmings and then begin decorating for Christmas. This year, I’m going to try crockpot mashed potatoes to free up some stove space for homemade cranberry sauce and other extras! So exciting!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Delegate – others like to feel part of the celebration even if it means bringing a side dish or dessert.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I need to recruit all of the above ladies to help me!!!!! Since I’m disabled, they can do all of the nasty things while I supervise!!!!! And have pumpkin pie afterwards!!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.In my family, we make a homemade pineapple tea (it’s a traditional Mexican recipe) and not only is it a yummy warm drink, it also makes our house smell so good!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make little sides ahead of time such as pies or cranberry sauce so you have more time on that day. Also make sure you have delicious candles lit. Most important of all…just remember its one day out of the year that you have to cook and deal with crazy family….well until Christmas is here. Ha!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Mainly this year I am hoping to focus on including the little one in everything and not about making things perfect. It will be a meager holiday for us relatively and a great opportunity to get back to basics.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a timeline listing every single thing I have to do.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Lots of lists for me also, a list of meal components, ingredients for each dish, what day to make them, what dish, what serving utensil. Any detail I can think of to write down so I, or a guest who wants to help, knows exactly what to do. And I never ask my sister-in-law to peel potatoes again!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip is the set dining the table the night before the holiday. This way, if cooking takes longer than expected, you can find peace in knowing your home looks great!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If a neighbor won’t be home ask to use their oven. My next door neighbor and I switch off holidays. She’s gone on thanksgiving and we’re gone on Xmas Eve.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make the cranberry relish a few days in advance — one less thing to do last-minute and it improves the flavor: http://jbbsmusings.blogspot.com/2001/11/some-day-ill-be-as-organized-as-susie.html
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set the table and arrange your centerpiece the night before. Put all your place cards and whatever else you will use on the table in place, and you won’t have to worry about it last minute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do as much as you can in the days preceding, and then relax. The point of the day is to celebrate with family and friends. Yes, we want everyone to have a great experience, but it’s not about the food or the house, it’s about togetherness.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A few years ago I devised a “master list/file” containing my most requested, or “must have” holiday recipes as well as a grocery list with all the ingredients (including amounts) of all the necessary ingredients needed to complete these items for upto 6 people. Once I have these, if I have extra guest, I simple add a few canned or frozen ready-made items to the list to stretch it and I’m good to go. Kinda like how my Grandma use to add another potatoe to the pot to stretch the soup!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always fall back on those tried and true family recipes that have been handed down through the generations. It is a pretty stress-free holiday, when I am confident in making reliable dishes that everyone will enjoy. I also tend to pull out the crockpot for at least one easy, make ahead dish that frees up a little oven space.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.power cleaning the weekend prior and then prep a few dishes each nite, the day before, all the tableware is put out and cleaned as well. always a breakfast casserole for the morning of.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Prepare as many sides as possible the day before. I love to use crockpots!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the tips! I don’t really have any tips as I have never been in charge of Thanksgiving myself, but remember to have a fun day. Happy Holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t stress about it. As long as there is some edible food it’s the thought that counts!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep your pantry organized. Shop in advance.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to make as much as I can ahead of time. Things like Pies and cakes keeo well for a day or two.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I use to be a “I got this” type of person but really if someone offers they really won’t mind a task. Plus having someone else by your side allows for some great conversation time (even though I like to talk to myself). I have found that letting my toddler help too. It might not make it faster but it is better then listening to him complain or worse making a mess somewhere else. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Check and double check your recipes to make sure you have all ingredients on hand. I sometimes will buy double what I need, just in case a few extras show up and a dish can be quickly doubled.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We make the turkey the day before and debone it, then on Thanksgiving day we put it in the roaster with all the saved juices. Makes Thanksgiving day so much less stressful!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Have activities for the kids, so they won’t want to be in the kitchen. Holiday coloring books, bored game, etc. Anything but video game, it is the holidays and we want the family to be together.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I think most people have covered my tips, but just to repeat the idea. I plan my menu ahead, print out the recipes and make a shopping list from those. In addition I make a time chart of when I will prepare each dish (as much ahead as possible), as well as when I will reheat each dish. I readjust, as well since I can be sure everyone will be late (that just how it rolls around here, since I am the only one who is neurotic about time). I also prepare a short little devotional time, when everyone shares a thanksgiving item (as we wait for everything to go onto the table) and sing a song and give thanks together. I get to enjoy this since I make everything ahead and it’s all in the oven just waiting to be put on the table. Oh, and I get my ever loving husband to clean the living/dining area right before everyone arrives so I won’t be stressed about cat fur and clutter.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The best tool I have is my time table. When we’re pulling together a big event, I make a chart with dates and times that each dish component is to be accomplished. Of course, it works best when I build in time for unexpected… since surprises always happen! I’m not a (terribly) anal person, but this is the only way I can manage to pace myself and pull these things off without wearing myself out before the fun bits!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I focus on tried & true recipes that I know never fail & save the experimenting w/new recipes for another time…cuts way down on stress because I know they will be wonderful!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make sure you have kids bring containers for leftovers. HAVE FUN WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I especially enjoy going to someone else’s house for Thanksgiving. Of course, I also cook a small turkey at home, too, so I get to play with the leftovers, too.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to have some easy to make appetizers all ready to go. If dinner starts getting held up, you can pull those out. If not, then have them the next day or two. I plan on extra stuff and only serve if running low on things or people want snacks later.
ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS…. let other people help. Makes the day go better and you don’t feel overwelmed doing it all yourself. I know people who shooo everyone out of the kitchen then complain when nobody helps clean up or serve… that it was SOOOOO much work!
Let them help!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always have crates of Legos, blocks, toy trains, hot wheels, dolls, and color books and crayons, available for the children. . It keeps them busy and out from under the feet of the adults who are helping in the kitchen. I think the dads enjoy the Legos as much as the kids do and it is amazing to see the creations they come up with.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make sure you are aware of dietary needs and make sure there is always something for everyone. If there are people that want to help or want to bring something make sure you know what it is and possibly give them a short list of what they could do so you don’t end up with 10 pumpkin pies.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I go through all my holiday recipes and make sure I have all the ingredients. I buy in bulk then chop the nuts, etc ahead of time so when I bake a lot of the work is done and I can just enjoy!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.….and don’t forget!!….brine that turkey!! You won’t regret it….best turkey ever!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Test.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great tips! I try to prep as much food as I can a day or two before Thanksgiving so all I really have to worry about is getting the turkey done. Most of my side dishes are ready to put in the oven after the turkey.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great tips for any time of the year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My entertaining tip – always have snacks on hand! A nice veggie tray, some cheeses, a bowl of chips or nuts. We always have an endless supply of food available, which keeps anyone with heath problems from feeling sick between meals, keeps those nursing (aka me!) and older kids from getting too hungry, the little kids something healthy to spoil their meal with and give mom and dad more time to visit and less doling out approved snacks. Not to mention, it encourages everyone to stay in one room instead of spreading out!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love to make my own cloth napkins each year. This year I’m doing deer silhouettes!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Wow, can’t believe how organized people are, I’m just lucky
Please log in or create a free account to comment.enough to get dinner done and not be to exhuasted, feeling a tad quilty! Though one thing I do is a Thanksgiving favor!
Do as much prep the day before as you can!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We go to my Mom’s for Thanksgiving and everyone brings a few things so it isn’t so much on one person. We bring the same things EVERY year, so it is easy to plan. Now that the “kids” are growing up, they are taking over a few of Mom’s dishes. At my house, I keep a holiday candle burning to help set the mood…so relaxing!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Getting ready at my house includes going through all of the fantastic recipes I’ve gotten this year, deciding which ones I want to make, laying them out in a row on the counter, placing bowls and the dry ingredients in a bag by each recipe. When time to start it’s like an assembly line and everything goes so much smoother.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to go in with a grateful heart so it doesn’t really seem like work. It really is a blessing to be able to feed those whom I love.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for hosting!
Google make ahead mashed potatoes…so many delish flavors and lots of prep done as early as you want….crock pot ranch mashed…cheesy…all wonderful!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set the table the day before. Cover with a sheet if you have pets to keep it sanitary. Have the centerpiece(es) ready to go at the same time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am one of the world’s slowest cooks, so I try not to stress too much, dinner will get done when it gets done and it will be delicious!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The #1 tip for a stress free holiday celebration (especially Thanksgiving) is to STAY ORGANIZED. Make lists and stick to them – ALWAYS!!! If I don’t have a list, prepared in the order in which I need to do things, I will invariably be off track and running around like a psycho mom at the last minute. List List List List – it’s the only way to go.
Next, and this is what our family has “graduated” to over the years, is to have each person bring a dish. In our family, the host provides and prepares the Turkey for Thanksgiving, one family member provides the dressing and gravy, another brings the sweet potatoes, another brings pecan pies, etc. etc. This way all the work is not on one person and everybody gets to enjoy a lovely day. We love doing it this way.
P.S. – Our Thanksgiving tradition is to eat lunch instead of dinner and the husband’s clean up and do the dishes before the games start in the afternoon, then we all graze through the games if we get hungry again. THIS, in my opinion, was the greatest idea ever! LOL.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to cook my turkey cut in 1/2 and laying flat so that the breast stays moist and it cooks faster. I cook it in the lowest part of the oven and this allows for the other shelf to hold more food items.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Like so many others, my biggest gift to myself is to prep everything I can the day before . . . pies, dressing and side dishes, set the table . . . clean out the dishwasher . . . then relax with a nice glass of red.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My Holiday tip is to start early! Do a little bit at a time so you are not so stressed out and unable to enjoy the Holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m not sure I have a good holiday entertaining tip, as I’ve never really done it before. But this year we will have 62 people at Thanksgiving dinner (!), and I’m soaking up all the tips I can find.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I would add whole and ground cloves to the spice list– a little is needed for pumpkin pie recipes and it is great with the holiday ham. I bake my sweet potatoes a day or two before — then peel, mash and store them in the fridge– I measure what I need for my sweet potato casserole , then freeze the rest in 2 cup containers. I have the ingredients on hand for my casserole or sweet potato pie ready any time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Place a small bin on your countertop for recycling. That way cans and bottles won’t take over your countertops and guests will know where to put them. Then you can take them out to the recycling bin in one fell swoop when it gets full.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love thia list!!! For me prepping everything uncluding the menu is a must!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I did all of my Thanksgiving grocery shopping on Saturday night after 8 p.m. There were hardly any other shoppers in the store and everything was well stocked. We were in and out of the store in no time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite entertaining trick is simply to clean as I go. As soon as I’m done with a pan, I wash it and put it away (or ask someone else to wash it!) There’s nothing worse than getting to the bottom of the pile in the sink the next morning to find a gravy-covered whisk! Yuck!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to PREP! anything that can be made ahead of time….do it
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One thing that I do recommend is that you don’t wait to the last minute to clean everything! If you keep things tidy over the span of a week or more, then you’re not so overwhelmed when the holiday comes!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the tips, the one about the spices having no aroma is a good reminder! My tip is to do less and talk more. I find when I do less, i.e. put out fruit as opposed to constantly making food throughout the party, and talk to more people I end up having a better time. Which means my guests have a better time as well.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Holiday meals with turkey are pretty easy — it’s the side dishes that can trip you up. Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time, then reheat them — add a little milk — in a Pyrex dish covered with aluminum foil. Foolproof!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We always cook too much and end up with too many leftovers and too little space. While shopping for Thanksgiving food, invest in inexpensive food storage containers to use as ‘to-go’ containers for your guests. They’ll be grateful for the treat and you won’t have to try to figure out 100 ways to use leftover turkey.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love the basics list
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I did all my Thanksgiving grocery shopping on Saturday night after 8p.m. There were hardly any other shoppers in the store and everything was stocked well. We were in and out of the grocery store in no time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I let my boys’ families decide where they will spend each holiday to take the pressure off them. Then, if my own schedule allows I will have a gathering here in the mountains. If not, then we plan a dessert day and we get together sometime during the holiday season. With broken families the norm these days and stress abounding I didn’t want to put anymore pressure on them by insisting on “my turn”. This turned out to be a great solution and I actually get smiling happy faces when they come to visit, not stressed out, tired, “I can’t wait for it to be over” attitudes. It’s a win-win.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thank you for the helpful tips!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We don’t have family here in Utah, so i am the chef of all our holiday meals. In order for me to have everything ready at the same time, i write out a timeline so i know when to place something in the oven and when to take them out. I get whatever i can (sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, etc) prepared the day before and store in the fridge. On the day of, i start with what time we want to sit down at the table and i work backwards. I write down oven temps & cooking times and subtract the cooking time from when we want to eat. Then i know what time to start that particular dish. This has worked for me for several years now. It keeps me on track and relaxed and i am more able to enjoy the fruits of my labor with my family!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love all the tips! Plan & Prep ahead is the
Please log in or create a free account to comment.ongoing tip. I have to use lists for sure.
Thanks for all your ideas. Amazon Card would be a very welcome & needed gift!
Happy Thanksgiving
When I downsized my living space to a condo, I no longer have room to entertain the whole family so I now go to one of my granddaughter’s home to celebrate and play with my great grandchildren. I generally prepare one or two of the traditional dishes and provide preparation advice (but only when asked).
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Like many others, I make a list of everything! What food I will be serving, what items I need for the tablescape, what I need to do the day before and the day off. This helps me when others asks, “what can I do to help?” I have them look at the list and pitch in!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple, start early!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I ALWAYS make what I can in advance to cut down on time day of. Boiling potatoes and yams, baking the pumpkins, making the pie crust, and getting ingredients diced and ready for the stuffing. Still the same amount of work, but when spread over a few days, it seems like so much less!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plus, having the kiddos peel potatoes and carrots, is always a time saver!
Just this weekend I was thinking I need to go through my fridge and toss out some old bottles of salad dressing, etc., so this is a good reminder.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I started cleaning out cabinets last week and I can’t believe how much room I’ve opened up just in cabinets from expired or stuff that’s been open for who knows how long! Today/Tomorrow is my fridge cleaning/washing days, and Wednesday (which also happens to be my boyfriend’s birthday) is holiday dessert preparing and shuffling out pots, pans, dishes I will be using. I have (voluntarily) agreed to host Thanksgiving again this year and I’m going to tackle what I can before the big day! 20+ people is a lot of food and cleanup, so I’m doing some easier dishes this year and have devoted each family/couple/person to bring something! I love Thanksgiving, so I’m hoping to make this the best family time of the year!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have one of those lovely side-by-side refrigerators that is too small to hold much of anything, especially all the things I want to pre-prep for the big holiday meal! ( it is actually too small for the leftovers ; ) ) So as long as it is nice and cold outside I use the back of my van for a refrigerator It holds everything!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Before putting any decorations on top of my kitchen cabinets, I HAVE to clean them, the easiest way is with a cordless vac, use the brush attachment and it’s done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t be afraid to make “semi-homemade” dishes. Statrting with a packaged item, like stuffing then adding in your own ingridients, spices, erc can be a time saver without loosing the home cooked quality. There are so many pre-made items at the grocery now that can save you time and money. Utilize these items and put your own spin on them. No one will know and it will get you out of the kitchen faster to enjoy your family.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip would be to use the crockpot and do make-ahead side dishes so your not cramming it all into one day. Happy Thanksgiving! Thanks for the great tips and the giveaway!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love these tips. A good reminder of what to do. I make sure I have my food saver ready to go and containers ready to send stuff home with others. I make sure to do dishes as I go, so I don’t have to after the meal.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thank you so much for the spice list and grocery list. I am going to use them as a permanent part of my own home made lists.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love to have some craft or game for the kids to participate in while the last minute meal preparations are being done. It is usually brown paper for a place mat, or turkeys they make from cookies, icing and candy, or from cups and construction paper. They love showing off their work afterward. Some adult supervision will be needed, especially if they are using scissors, or you could already have cutouts available. I also have a coffee and hot chocolate bar set up.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This will be my first Thanksgiving in my home! My tip is delegation! It’s a happy family gathering, it’s good to all be happy to do a little something together so not one person is stuck with all the ‘work’ Love your site! Happy Thanksgiving time all :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.1- Don’t forget to plan all the meals for the day, not just the big one. Scrambling to keep the masses happy adds unnecessary stress. Easy self serve foods on hand allows ordinary life to keep marching on while the cooks makes magic.
2- Give everyone a job and then let them do it! Rare is the person who can just see what needs to be done and do it. Most people are happy to have ownership of part of the celebration if they are told exactly what is needed. When the work is parceled out it prevents too many people helping at the same time or not enough help. The hostess does have to remember that the joy of shared labor is more beautiful than a perfect table scape :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.do everything in advance that can possibly be done!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to have a hot chocolate station up and running all Christmas Eve and Christmas. It has lots of yummy toppings to make many combinations.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One of the obvious tips for holiday entertaining is to do as much as humanly possible before the guests arrive (especially a day or two before, if possible!). This saves so much time, and makes the big day itself more enjoyable.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I just try to relax and stay calm throughout the holidays, it’s a time to enjoy family and friends. I still exercise and take time for myself because that makes me a better hostess. I also like to prep my veggies and as much of the other food items as I can before the big day so I don’t have to stand in the kitchen all day and am available to visit with everyone.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This will help my New Years cleanup as well, thanks Jillee!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip is to check One Good Thing by Jillee like I did yesterday … Cleaning my oven racks in the bathtub as I type (:
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We usually get most of the prepping done the night before, it makes things a little easier.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Fun to read; describes my kitchen exactly. But so glad that we don’t have a lot a guests for Christmas/New Year’s dinner. Just the two of us and maybe one-two guests. BTW, is that Mme. Benoît’s cookbook in the first photo? I live in Québec and I have the book in French which is somewhat wider but then again, written French is longer than written English.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is get as much done ahead of time as you can! Then put something calming in the diffuser before guest arrive & just enjoy!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I think delegating is a great idea, it let’s everyone be a part of the fun and gives the younger ladies a chance to learn to cook. Love your website and emails.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make sides the day before at least. My mom freezes a lot of her sides and I am trying to get in the habit of that too.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to stock up on containers so family can enjoy leftovers! A nice sampling in a decorated paper bag is a pleasant end to the day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite holiday tip is to wait until after the holidays for my big party! I have a “Winter Party” with all of my friends and family. I always invite new people from church and people who seem to need a friend. So much more relaxing!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t forget to inspect and wash your food storage containers so you can enjoy all the yummy leftovers, too!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to keep in mind what it is all about. The holidays are about family/friends being together, love, campassion, and Christ. No one is going to know what the perfect holiday meal looked like in your head and they are not going to care if/when the real version didn’t turn out the same. It is about time and memories.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I follow you on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram too!
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My tip is to remember that Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what you have. Spend time with your love ones and enjoy the time you have with them! Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.do as much as possible ahead of time. Then enjoy the Day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I got an error message on my first comment, so I don’t know if it posted or not.
My holiday tip: KEEP IT SIMPLE. I actually help the chef-of-the-day by bringing a few dishes that are safe for me to eat since I have a severe cow’s milk allergy. It’s less stress (for me and the cook!) if I bring dishes prepared with ingredients I know are safe. This week, I’m preparing sausage and cornbread stuffing, cranberry relish, and green bean casserole — all HOMEMADE and FRESHLY MADE without dairy products! Yum.
p.s. Thanks for the Amazing giveaway, that gift card will come in real handy as Husband and I make last-minute purchases for our bundle of joy — Baby Kamden — who’s due December 22. This will be a Christmas we’ll never forget!!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Oh my gosh, I do just about all of these things!! haha. Plus, I make sure that the light fixtures, such as my chandelier, are all extremely clean. A lot of people tend to clean the whole house, but forget to do the lights! They come on and “oh, look a cobweb” lol.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.For a quick food grab though: Personally, I love to make desserts of some sort that are easy to grab. If it’s a cold treat, then I like to put them in separate cupcake wrappers or even small plastic cups. Ice cream can be pre-scooped into cups to easily grab out and hand out. I’ve also pulled the ice cream out (candy cane, egg nog, AND pumpkin (YUM) flavors), and set them out on the counter all around a small “ice cream” station, where there was all kinds of christmas themed sprinkles, whipped cream, cherries, and candy cane pieces all broken up. It was a HIT with the kids!! (a lot of the kids in my family don’t like pies so ice cream is always a winner :))
I love to use my crock pot for cooking a small turkey. Take the lid off or the last 30 minutes of cooking time and the turkey browns and crisps on the outside. Amazingly moist and tender on the inside.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to have “kits” for people who want to help. I make up lists/recipes/diagrams and the needed items so that when someone asks “what can I do?” I can point them towards a task I think they can handle. It does help avoid all the questions and a lot of things like setting the table or putting out appitizers can be done out of the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Always think about what “leftovers” you want for other post-holiday recipes and prepare plenty for the holiday meal. I like to use dressing for the “crust” layer and mashed potatoes for the topping of a “leftover” turkey pie. And leftover sweet potatoes can become a pie too. I guess they are really PLANovers!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make the stuffing, the day before. I bake it in a tube pan, easy to slice and serve!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.de-clutter, de-clutter, de-clutter, de-clutter…. did i mention de-clutter?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep as much as much as possible a day or two ahead so that on the actual day, it’s mostly assembly and heating.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We ‘be finally found a turkey recipe we love and get very high marks from all who enjoy it with us! The mayonnaise crusted turkey recipe is so easy & so tasty! Every time we use it one of our guests makes off with the recipe!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.*We’ve! Oops!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Sometimes I step aside to let others cook – even in my own house. My mother-in-law is a great cook and likes to keep to her traditions. I used to try to be the perfect host and cook, but now that we have kids, I step aside and let her do the heavy lifting in the kitchen. It’s a lot more relaxing now.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I only have one oven and a toaster oven. I prepare a timetable with oven times and temperatures for all dishes that will be baked. I know exactly when everything goes in and comes out of the oven!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.i do a lot of prep a week or 2 before hand and freeze. for example, here in the NW, wild chanterelle season is coming to an end and they are becoming quite costly; knowing that, about a month ago, i bought, sautéed, and froze some specifically for stuffing use. other things that freeze well? pie crust, roasted turkey bones for gravy, turkey stock, rolls……don’t forget to find your roasting pan!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Lots of good tips Jill! I also ask guests to bring their own containers to take leftovers home in. I prep side dishes the weekend before, chop on Monday evening, and bake on Tuesday and Wednesday evening. Happy Thanksgiving to your family and readers!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.It takes time to organize, but organizing saves time in the long run. Thanks for the great tips.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax, enjoy the cooking, and all the prep work as much as you can and remember it’s not about the food being perfect or your house being perfect but it’s about sharing time together and being with people and coming to the table with a thankful heart full of love toward one another.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I ALWAYS label my serving dishes well before the meal is ready. I have done that for years. It really makes it a lot easier when everything is finished. There is never a big panic about what fits in what bowl that way. I started doing it at my mom’s for Christmas. At first she thought I was nuts but she saw how quickly food got on the table and now she’s all for it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to get a head start. Make any part of the meal that can be prepared ahead of time that way you can actually enjoy the day as well. Consider slow cooker recipes for morning of. Happy holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t fret and fuss, just enjoy your guests!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.It was many years ago but I BLESS the day I found using a Covered Roaster to cook my turkey!!! It keeps the bird deliciously moist AND cooks it faster! Just remove the cover for the last 30 minutes or so to brown him up…….YUM!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I write a list, post it on the fridge, of every dish/condiment/recipe and my menu so that I can continue to check it over and not forget anything! Planning ahead, doing what I can early all helps to enjoy the big day. My cranberry sauce is already made. It also helps to not forget something you made and tucked away safely so no one would taste or eat it before Thursday! When company arrives and someone asks to help, I can have them check the list to see what has to be put out on the table or a job that needs doing.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Many years we have had terrible weather on Thanksgiving. My tip is to have an alternate cooking plan if the power goes out. Grills, camping stoves, or ovens in an RV can be a life saver.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like making candle holders out of mini pumpkins and using them on the thanksgiving table. It is beautiful and sets a lovely ambiance mood.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to bake and freeze as much as possible beginning early November. I sure have enjoyed reading all the great tips!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip: I try to keep it simple. The whole point of thanksgiving is the time with people and celebrating blessings of the year. While I love to cook and love to try new recipes, I make sure not to overextend myself and enjoy the process of making the dinner as well as the eating of the dinner. I spent one thanksgiving where I spent so much time making the dinner that I was too exhausted when I sat down to eat that I didn’t want to eat- never again!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple and clean.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always like to make sure we have some cookie dough made and scooped into balls. Then I freeze them around this time of year, so I can pop them into the oven for a quick treat whenever we have guests visiting, planned or unplanned. It’s easy to put something together and it makes the house smell delicious!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple and within your abilities and energy level. If its too much, don’t do it! Your family and friends won’t miss it, and they would rather have you calm and enjoying yourself than stressed out and frantic. I’ve been to many holiday gatherings where the hostess was so stressed she didn’t enjoy herself. Its not fun for the guests either!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Capture the holiday memories by using a white tablecloth covered with a clear plastic one. Every year have your family & friends write a memoir or note with the date on the cloth. Use year after year. Precious when you look back to see memoirs by loved ones no longer with you.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We always cook our turkey in a Nesco roaster. Leaves much needed space in the oven for other things. Also have a smaller roaster for other items. Potato dish, stuffing, etc… The roasters can be put in a different room/garage if space is needed.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I keep a pot of simmering potpourri on the stovetop all season long! It’s simple and inexpensive… some quartered fruit, a few spices and cinnamon sticks – it’s reusable too! Makes my house smell heavenly, no matter when guests drop by. I love it even when it’s just us home for the day or evening :*)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make side dishes ahead to save time. Make sure to enjoy time with family and not get stressed out over one dinner. Keep it simple and have fun.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Everybody knows to light lots of candles and have music playing in the background to make things more festive, but I do this even for the days before while I’m getting ready. It keeps my stress level down and reminds me WHY I’m going through all of this!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great tips! I would add make a to do list. I refer to mine frequently to make sure I haven’t forgotten something simple but necessary like the cranberry relish is in the spare fridge. That meal was a tad plain, oops.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I buy my baking and candy supplies early. This way can work on my Christmas goodies whenever I have free time and don’t need to run to the store at the last minute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I lay out everything needed the day before: pot, pans, dishes, silverware. So everything is at hand as needed. No scrambling at the last minute. I set the table with all the china, glases, etc the night before. Guests always ooh and awww when they walk in the door early and see the sparkling set up — the holiday mood is on!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my tip is to make ahead everything possible to avoid stress and better enjoy the season
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip . . . .not very environmentally friendly, but I shop at the dollar store for decorations and when the holiday is over, I just trash everything. I always like to decorate, but I hate putting everything away afterwards. I hate the clean-up. So, instead, I walk around with my trash can and just dump it all in. And I’m done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make lists….lots and lots of lists. AND, let everyone who offers to help, HELP!! Enjoy!!! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I don’t think I have any tips to add to your great ones but I sure could use the gift card to help with Christmas…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Brenda
This list will make a great foundation on which we can plan and build a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Thanks for sharing!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make lists and use them!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to share the responsibility! At my house, my mom does the turkey and veggies, I do the mashed potatoes, my sister does the gravy and my sister and I split the lemon meringue pie! When you only have to do one or two things, you become really good at them and it’s easier to handle!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Pre bake and freeze as much as you can, then just pull it out and re-heat. Saves so much time…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep things in advance. Pies, ice cream, and rolls can be made in advance. My cranberry relish is made several days ahead of time. Once I have the Turkey in the oven I can focus on some general clean up and setting the table.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I so love your blog, Jillee! My one tip would have to be prepare what you can for the day before hand. Like these wonderful tips like Jillee mentioned, prepare pies or whatever you can ahead of time. I was reading a list of what to make when to have everything hot one time and the pies were listed. Really? Make them on Tues or Wed and go catch a few minutes of the game or find out what the rest of your family or guests are up to!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I can’t think of a single thing to add to that list! Wait… I have one! Think about the drink. Sure you remembered to buy the wine but did you get something for everyone? Something fun for kids like sparkling juice etc.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my family gets together every year and we all cook…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.our secret:
THE MEN have to clean up after us !!
Since I like to bake a lot, I usually make all my cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it. That way when it comes time for baking day, you simply thaw your dough and bake. It saves a ton of time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I roast a combination of butternut squash, sweet potatoes and carrots the weekend before Thanksgiving….then process them into a puree with butter and brown sugar. I freeze the puree right in the serving dish, then take it out Thanksgiving morning to be heated in the microwave.
Oven space and time are at a premium, so this gets a tasty side dish done ahead of time.
I also take off the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to make my pies. I’ve done it for years. It also gives me time to get the last minute “tidying” done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If it can be prepped and ready to go the day before, then I prep it. This year i have to work Thanksgiving night, so I am going to let go of control in my kitchen and let my sister have at it.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tips are to cut your veggies for you turkey soup and stock ahead of time that way on the big day after you pick the bird of all its juicy meat you can toss the carcass and stock veggies in a big kettle turn it on and forget about it. Then when the stock is done, strain, add your soup veggies and chopped turkey bits, and rice or noodles. Tada turkey soup. Refrigerate and bring out the next day for an easy meal after a long day of shopping.
Tip 2. I like to scrub, peel, and cut my potatoes the day before so i don’t have to deal with the mess on t- day. I place in a big pot of water and refrigerate until I am ready to cook them. Then I just rinse them and cook as usual. I usually mash them a good hour before the meal then keep them warm by placing the pan of mashed potatoes with a lid on it in a larger pan of simmering water ( like a double boiler effect). Works like a charm. Potatoes stay nice a fluff, hot and ready to serve. Best part is you can keep the mess to a minimum.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My sister and I cook our holiday meals together, it not only cuts the work in half but we also get to spend quality time together in the kitchen. We always make a list of what we need to cook and what we WANT to cook. We are both very creative in the kitchen but our family has been guinea pigs for years so we have to make sure we have the basic covered. ;)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love the idea of cleaning the appliances, a good deep clean to start off the holidays and the new year…at least you know its getting done once a year!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I should of included a tip of my own (is it Monday or what?) I vacuum all of the furniture, remove cushions, etc. That way no one is tempted by left over cheerios.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip to to prepare dishes ahead of time so you’re only reheating to serve – for entertaining, it needs to involve everyone, including the host!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep the vegetables on Tuesday or Wednesday, I set the table on Wednesday, and put all the serving dishes and pieces (labeled) on the dining table .
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t forget an appetizer for your guests to snack on while waiting for the food to be ready!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We travel to have Thanksgiving with family, but I always ask what I can bring or make when we get there- usually the pies or the wine. The cooking is always a dive right in and help out sort of thing and such fun, a time to converse with individual family members.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make everything you can ahead of time, and freeze it, with the exception of any dishes containing rice (which becomes mushy) or sour cream. Defrost in the microwave and allow time to reheat. You’ll save yourself lots of stress! Happy Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is an easy one – I do the shopping and let my husband do the cooking! (Well, most of it, but with a little help from me – the assistant!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep my mind, heart & soul for the holidays by gathering biodegradable sky lanterns & sharpies, enough for everyone who will be with us at each holiday. We will write what we are grateful for (for Thanksgiving) a message of love (for loved ones no longer with us (Christmas) or our hope/dream for the coming year (for New Years). Doing this activity together & releasing them brings joy, hope & a lightness of being! :-) Happy Holidays, everyone!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tips are to make lists concerning different aspects of the holiday, cross things off that list as early as you can and then RELAX. It will be what it will be. Enjoy your family and friends and be grateful for what you have. I would so love to have my late brother and sister at my table but I know they are in my heart. Love what you have and make it as loving as you can for everyone. That is what a holiday is all about.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love using excel to make a huge list of everything I need for every recipe. Then I shop my kitchen, I go grocery shopping and then I prep whatever I can. Spices in ziplock bags, shredded carrots. Then everything just needs minimal work the day of.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to relax. The hostess who seems in a tizzy is missing the point of why she opened her home in the first place. Oh, and delegate, delegate, delegate. Who cares if it’s done YOUR way; if someone is helping, smile and let them.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax & have some fun. the friends & family that you invite into your home are not going to get bent out of shape if everything isn’t perfect.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have a small house with one regular-sized stove/oven, but my Thanksgiving meal is prepared for 20+ people every year. It’s not possible to cook everything so that all the food is finished at the same time but still nice and hot when we are all finally seated and ready to eat.
These are my go-to appliances to make it happen:
> 3-crockpot setup (used for gravy, corn, and seasonal vegetable medley)
> buffet steamer trays with sterno pot underneath (mashed potatoes, stuffing, and turkey slices in broth.)
> Relatives who bring the extras: salad, desserts, munchies, and hors ‘doevres
I roast a larger turkey a week earlier, slice it down and freeze it. I thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator. The morning of the meal, put them in an aluminum pan, cover with broth, and put in the oven (covered) for 20 minutes to warm. Then put on the buffet steamer rack to keep warm till ready to serve. I also roast a turkey breast the day of Thanksgiving so that we still have the smell of turkey. The breast greatly reduces the amount of cleanup after the meal, too. I prepare the mashed potatoes and stuffing about 90 minutes before serving time and put in the steamer tables to stay warm, and the vegetables and gravy in the crockpots around 1 hour ahead of time.
This leaves time for organizing the setup of tables and chairs, greeting guests as they arrive, and attending to last minute details without too much stress.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do as much prep work as possible a few days before Thanksgiving. I cut up all my ingredients that I’m going to need for my stuffing, my salads, desserts and odds and ends. Then all I have to do is assemble them when it comes time. Something else that I learned from my mother and grandmothers is that you always have a sink of good hot soapy water while you are preparing meals. You clean up your dishes as you are making your dishes and then it isn’t so overwhelming after your meal is finished. I personally would rather make the meal myself..too many cooks in the kitchen cause confusion! Thanks for your website, it is a very valuable tool in many areas of our lives! Have a wonderful, happy Thanksgiving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always send home my family with a to-go box of food. I simply purchased to-go boxes from Sam’s a couple of years ago & still have plenty of boxes left. By using the to-go boxes, I do not worry about not having any food containers not returned. Plus, I do not have to deal with a lot of leftover food.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Whatever I can prep or bake ahead, I do! Potatoes & squash llcan be cooked, mashed & frozen. The day before I take them out to thaw. The potatoes I’ll put in a slow cooker on low about four hours before dinner. Just before serving, I’ll mix in the butter & milk. For the squash, I’ll pop it in the microwave to heat it through & then mix in maple syrup & butter.
I alwo make sure that my salads and fresh veggies are prepped the day before.
Clean up also goes much better!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do as much in advance as possible and ‘clean as I go’!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Making Grandma’s cranberry salad is a family tradition so my two adult daughters still honor that tradition by coming over Thanksgiving eve to help prepare (what now is an easily made salad thanks to the food processor instead of hand grinder!). We use the time to share a glass of wine while listening to a favorite Christmas movie in the background so we can laugh and reminisce. While I’m in the kitchen, I prepare a breakfast casserole and fill the coffee pot. On Thanksgiving morning, I can wake up, light my favorite spiced candle, turn on the coffee pot, pop the casserole in the oven and relax with my husband to a nice breakfast before we venture out for Thanksgiving dinner at my folks’. HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My biggest tip is to plan, plan, plan. I always figure out exactly what I want to make and pull out the recipes so that I make sure I do not forget any ingredient when I shop. I also make a list of what needs to be cooked and when. I like to figure out what time we want to eat and work backwards. I then make my list as to of what time to put the turkey in, when to chop, cook, mix, etc. the rest of the dishes. When I plan, I can enjoy the day with my family more!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Look for a place to serve in your community. We love having family and friends in our home for Thanksgiving dinner, but also have found such joy in giving! In our county, a group of churches get together to cook and deliver dinner to hungry folks. It started about 10 years ago with a Sunday School class feeding about 150 people. This year we plan to feed 2000! That’s right, before we all sit down to turkey and the fixin’s, we will cook and deliver 2K hot meals. It is all donated! While we are tired, it is just wonderful to know that the hungry in our county are fed. This is a family event- people of all ages come and help, and there is something for everyone. So, I encourage your readers to find a place to serve this year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make a playlist ,have a mix of nice music in the background that includes contemporary favorites and classics.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to prepare what you can ahead of time- be it chopping up veggies or setting out plates and serving dishes. The holidays are always bustling in our home and it helps to cut out some of those easy but tedious steps before the big day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make a menu a couple of weeks beforehand with those who are going to attend. Then delegate what you can to the other party members. My family likes to help and it is nice to have someone else bring their favorite dishes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to have several light appetizers ready for
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My guests when they arrive. Something to
Munch on but not too heavy ! Keeps the crowd happy!!
Don’t fret the little details! Chances are no one will notice but you anyway!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I know, it’s not fancy…. but we’d rather spend time together than cleaning up. So, we use disposable plates (heavy duty) and plastic ware. We have plenty of zip-lock type bags (quart and gallon) on hand for left overs. I prepare and wash up as many of the dishes before guests arrive, so as soon as the turkey (or ham) is out, I can put those dishes in to bake. Sometimes if I did them the day before, they just need a quick warm up. Commandeer one of the kids (or even one of the “men folk”!) to take drink orders (water, soda, tea) and have them get that ready and on the table.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Since my mom has cancer, we have really learned to just appreciate the time we can have together as a family and enjoy each other.
My mother-in-law has always fixed the MEGA meal but she fell and hurt herself a couple of years ago and it is difficult for her to be on her feet for so long. So now, I organize all of the daughter-in-laws to bring a side and dessert so that M-I-L can just focus on the turkey and dressing (the star of the meal). We love that we can contribute and she loves that she is still in charge of the best part of the meal.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make your list if recipes check all of your ingredients and shop early! No last minute shopping the day before.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Over the years I have pared all of the food down to the basics. For me, it’s not Thanksgiving unless I cook a turkey, make home-made cranberry sauce, and my infamous bourbon slush. Anything else can be bought, brought, or naught. Thanks for being here for us everyday Jillee. Love your blog.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I need a clean kitchen before I begin cooking
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Get the kids involved in the preparations. You can keep them busy and also get a lot done.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to get everything done before I put the turkey in so I only have to make gravy at the last minute. That way I can rest a little and enjoy dinner. I love making the potatoes in the crockpot. I also try to make cookies and desserts in November and December and put them into the freezer, so I don’t have to do so much holiday baking right at the last minute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make a list of everything you’re planning to serve for your holiday meal and post it on the fridge or microwave. I don’t know how many times we’ve completed a meal only to find one special dish I didn’t make often hidden the in the fridge that I’d forgotten to put out. Really???? (The sad part was that I then had to eat it ALL BY MYSELF – Darn!!!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.For me it’s all about lists. If the dinner rolls are on the list for dinner, they won’t get forgotten in the rush to get everything on the table. If I make a list of everyone who is coming and what they are bringing, we won’t end up with two broccoli salads. If I make a list of the non-holiday things that need to be accomplished, when someone asks if they can help, I can give them a task. The less I have to remember, the less is forgotten.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.LISAB – Me, too! I just posted my suggestion (the same one!) and went back and started reading other great suggestions – and found yours! Good plan!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love your post an a lot of great ideas from everyone.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Unfortunely I can’t really cook any because of my health, but I have great daughter in-laws who have stepped up and do most of the cooking and cleaning. I do what I can to help, but I always get kicked out of the kitchen by them or one of my sons. I so love my wonferful family an my boys have chosen fantasic wives!! Happy holidays♥
– Kara
My favorite thing to do on Thanksgiving is to gather everyone around and take a picture, because they
Please log in or create a free account to comment.are what I am most thankful for. Hope all of you enjoy a day filled with family, friends and food.
My tip for the holidays is… Don’t forget about destressing you…. It could be as simple as locking the door an having a nice soothing bath by candlelight and some good tunes…
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have guest that come from out of town so I make sure the bed and bathroom linens are nicely set out and made to feel like they could be at a hotel.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My sister, mom, and I split the work, so that no one has to do everything. We take turns hosting at our homes, too. I usually do all the sides, so I make one dish a day beginning on Sunday and put them in the freezer. Yesterday, I made the cranberry sauce. Tonight, I will make the dressing, etc. The night before, I cut up all the veggies for the salad (although I bought everything cut this year to save time). By the time Thursday hits, I only have to heat up the dishes and bake the biscuits. This also helps with clean up…only one cooking dish/pot/pan worth of clean up at a time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Have everyone bring a dish so that you are not overwelmed. Also, prepare as much food as you can the day before:)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.100-count bag of tea lights.
I use a variety of frosted and pebbled glass containers, so they glow like lamps. I arrange them in a few groupings, the place some pine cones, cranberries, cedar or pine bough, cinnamon sticks, etc., or anything that matches your decorating theme.
Add a few drops of pine or your fave essential oil onto the wax of your tea light. It works better than scented candles, and you can mix and match different scents for different rooms, and it creates an instant holiday atmosphere.
Another trick is to place one drop of your fave EO onto a few of the bulbs of your tree or mantle mini lights. Within seconds your room will smell amazing.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This year we are taking the entire meal to my daughters house! She lives in an apartment and has a kitchen the size of a postage stamp. We will have ALL the prep done in our (my) kitchen and leave nothing to chance! My tip is just this, prepare in advance!Leaves nothing out and makes the day so much better for the cook! My second tip is no matter how difficult, if at all possible, spend the day with family!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to do as much ahead of time as you can. If your menu includes cold fluffy salads, prepare recipes that can be frozen, and get those out of the way and in the freezer. Anything that can be done early is one less thing to worry about later.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.THE EVENING BEFORE the family meets, to avoid wasting relaxing “visiting” time, we always:
1. Set the table.
2. On the table, place all serving bowls with the individual servings spoons inside of each bowl. Place post it notes by each one specifying what food goes in each bowl.
3. Set out coffee cups, spoons for stirring, “dirty” spoon bowl, sugar, glasses, carafes, etc on the counterpart where you want them to be for the next day.
4. Sometimes we make the homemade mashed potatoes the night before and place them in a crockpot the next day.
5. Make the turkey in our 2nd crockpot…super tender!
HaPpY ThAnKsGiViNg! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love the list. My top tips are to always involve the kids in the prep so they get excited about helping and also to have a thankful jar by the door. As people enter they write down something they are thankful for them when we are about to say Grace everyone takes a thankful more out and reads it for all to hear.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to pre-make my potato roll dough the week before and put it in the freezer. I just take it out Thanksgiving morning and they thaw and rise in the ziploc bag. Takes about 2 minutes of work to form them into balls and put them in a pan to bake. If I have time I also like to make sugar cookies beforehand and color frosting for people to decorate cookies while they are waiting for the food to cook. Then I have my decorated cookies, and get to do it with people I probably wont see until Christmas day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to do any food prep I can earlier in the week. This way on the holiday I’m not stuck in the kitchen all day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you are having a holiday party and want to serve cocktails, stick to one or two cocktails and serve them in those large glass decanters with a tap. These work well for wines too. Also, make sure your beverage area is separate from your food area.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The glass decanters will free you up from playing bartender and allows you to be a guest at your own party. Able to visit with everyone and enjoy yourself. It also let’s your guest know they are free to help themselves. Keeping the beverages separate from your food area allows for less traffic in both areas. Enjoy and happy holidays!
My tip is to do as much as you can ahead of time. I want to spend as much time with friends and family as I can. It’s less stressful for me this way. Plus this forces me to plan ahead and not just play catch up all day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.After years of not having time to enjoy my family because of my busyness, I’ve learned to get as much done before they get here and then let the rest go. And another tip is: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Shared kitchen time can be fun time too. :)
Happy Thanksgiving to you, Jillee, I’m thankful for your blog where I have learned so much!!! Blessings to you.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan and prep ahead are my biggest two tips!! And simplfy the menu as much as possible. I also like to set up a coffee/drink bar along with some simple appetizers to keep everyone happy until the meal is ready!!! Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I want to simply enjoy the people I am most thankful for – the meal is just a way to get them all together but it’s all pointless if I don’t take the time to relax and enjoy our time together!! Thanks Jillee for the tips – as usual, they are right on target!! Happy Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I purchased a new oven about ten years ago and Thanksgiving was my first opportunity to use it. My advice is know what the “convection” feature is and does. I didn’t and served half of the Thanksgiving meal flambé.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My company for Thanksgiving cancelled on us this year, of course right after I bought everything for two families to enjoy, so this year we will have PLENTY of left overs! I work full time so my plan is to prepare a little each evening when I get home so on Thanksgiving Day my life will be easier. If cooking a large amount of food for three people is easier… :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prepare as much as possible the two days prior as serve buffet style. Then we all sit down together and enjoy our time without anyone being too tired or stressed.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax and have fun, everything doesn’t have to be perfect!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep by making sure my car has enough gas to get to my sisters :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Simple but memorable oversight one year… I didn’t have enough serving spoons for the number of side dishes! Off to Target to stock up for next year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We spend Thanksgiving with my sister at her house. I make sure that I have enough portable servers for those menu items I am making and bringing to the harvest table. I bring extra sharp carving knives and aprons so everyone can get into the act.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Here is my all-time best tip:
I save beautiful tins and jars…make sure everything is clean, especially lids, which often retain smells, so soak them in baking soda or vinegar
IN THE SUMMER, I spray paint the lids, which gives them plenty of time to air out before I use them! I stash all this stuff in a bucket in the basement.
Can’t stress this enough: WASH, spray, dump in bucket!
I get so many beautiful tins and jars through the year, I hate to throw them away, and so now at Christmas, I have an assortment of beautiful jars and tins to pack my treats in!
Nothing matches, so if I am doing things in bulk and I want to show them off, I wrap everything with the same ribbon (wide, wired and gold!), and put it out on a tray somewhere. It never fails to look gorgeous. Also, I frequently, but not always, put the NAME of the person I’m giving to on the bottom, but I usually FORGET.
Love these tips and this site…happy holidays to all.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We always cook our turkeys in a large roaster. It frees up the oven for all the other goodies.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love your tips! The key to a relaxed holiday cooking day is organization and a helpful husband! It’s the Monday before Thanksgiving and I’m cleaned and ready to go. Today is the last of the shopping and getting ready for the out of town guests. All of my dishes will be prepared ahead of time starting today so there is very little cooking on the “actual” day. Here is where the second refrigerator really helps! The icing on the cake…my husband cooks the turkey on the grill. That allows me to finish everything else in the oven. Teamwork! Cheers and Happy Turkey Day to all!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do everything possible before guests arrive. I love to entertain, and I happen to have the largest house in my immediate family. Therefore, dinners at my place! In an effort to maintain my energy level (I have an auto-immune disorder) I make most things early and freeze them. The apple, pumpkin, and pecan pies; pound cake, macaroni and cheese, green bean casserole, and dressing are all resting comfotably in the freezer. I will make the mashed potatoes, jello salad, cranberry sauce and iced tea the day before. All that will be cooked on the day is the turkey, ham, gravy and rolls. I’m lucky enough to have two ovens, so one will be for cooking and the other for warming. The grandchildren will set the table, and voila! dinner is done!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Get out all your serving dishes ahead of time. Put paper labels (mashed potatoes, squash, etc.) in each one so you don’t forget an item in the fridge or oven.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to remember to take it all in, relax and enjoy.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Right after Thanksgiving, I start making large batches of cookies -all my favorites – and store them in big plastic buckets in my garage (the temps outside go down to the single digits now). Whenever I need a plate of cookies to give, serve, or just for a yummy snack/dessert – I have my own cookie shop of homemade cookies in a jiffy!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make several things that freeze well in advance, so that there is less clean up and prep for the day of.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make sure all bathrooms are totally stocked with enough tp and clean fresh towels and washclothes (to wash off lil faces after getting messy with food). also stock up the hand soap dispensers to make sure no one is left without to wash up hands.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Another thing i dont want to forget is enough ice, no one wants to drink a warm soft drink of have iced tea and not enough ice for their glass.
My tip is to have others share the responsibility for bringing food
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I pre-make everything that I can. My freezers are my friend! Thanks for all of your great tips!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make the turkey a day or 2 ahead. I debone it and put it in a roaster, then cover it with broth. It is sooo easy to heat up on the big day, it’s moist and juicey, and the mess of bones is all out of the way! And no waiting on the turkey to roast! Plus the added bonus of oven space on the day. :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Have plenty for the kids to do to stay out from underfoot!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a special calendar for the week before the holiday that divides out my tasks equally and doesn’t allow me to forget important things (like thawing the turkey) during the stress of the moment. Behind that, I attach every recipe I will be using for the special days, so when my calendar says “make the pies”…voila…I make pies, instead of getting distracted while hunting for the perfect recipe! ;)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Get as much done in advance as possible (lots of great tips here..), then take a little time for yourself each day, whether you have guests or not, to relax/meditate to remind yourself of the joy of the holiday and the friends and family you have in your life.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I write up a timetable for Thanksgiving Day kitchen duties…things like what time to start raising the rolls, what time to put the casseroles and dressings in the oven. And I keep notes about how things went and how long the turkey REALLY took to roast, etc. These notes help me a lot in the next year and the time schedule allows me to enjoy the excitement of guests arriving and visiting while still keeping meal prep on schedule.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m so bad at just jumping right in..thanks for the reminder to plan ahead!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple so that you can enjoy having people over and not be stressed. Thanks for the opportunity to win!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always find myself challenged to just get the “regular” stuff done as I work on baking special dishes & desserts, go shopping, & spend extra time with family & friends. The parties, church functions, & ministries pull me many different directions. I have guests staying for more than a few days & Christmas breakfast is a tradition in our home. I find that cooking up & freezing my sausage, bacon, or ham ahead of time makes breakfast go much better. I can also do breakfast quiche at least a day ahead & refrigerate. Naturally the cookies, cakes, & pies can be done early. And there are so many do-ahead casseroles for those off-days when we’re in our holiday whirl. All of this in a nutshell is: whatever you can cook before the thundering herd comes, do it! And whatever they offer to do, let them! None of us wants to spend all of our time in the kitchen when the kids & grandkids are coming to visit.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to keep things as simple as possible, and do as much prep ahead of time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.What works for me is to keep it easy breezy…don’t sweat the small stuff and you and yours will have a good time.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to remember to focus on my guests. We get so caught up in the meal prep that we sometimes are too preoccupied to actually enjoy the moment. Will they actually remember the stuffing, or will they remember the warm welcoming atmosphere? I need to remind myself to relax and enjoy. That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Graciously allowing friends & family to do most of the work. After fibromyalgia got in my way, I learned to let them do more! A great lesson in gratitude!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Jillee, first I wanted to wish you a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING and a WONDERFUL MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I just wanted to share my story of wonderful holidays that are so special to me. Growing up I never really had what you call a great/happy holiday of any kind. Even at a young age my mother/family was never kind to me, I am the oldest of 3 and it always seemed that it was a tradition to make me have a bad holidays. Now Im 35 its still not a good family time for me when a I visited.
Its been years since I have been with my family.
BUT when I married my husband 5 yrs ago that changed, his family on both side are the most wonderful, caring and compassionate family. From the first time I met them to now they have taken me in and treated me like I had been part of the family for years.
I will be honest with you I had no idea how to take this at first due to lack of this with my own that I was so overwhelmed that I didnt want to attend another family function. They even treated my two kids like they were their own. For the last several years I could not more THANKFUL and EXCITED to be giving a chance to experience such love and acceptance by such caring people. Each day that passing I have devinely blessed to be apart of something like this, its not just one day to be thank but everyday I am thankful ♥♥♥
I don’t have little ones at home anymore and the grand kids only come over once in awhile. My neighbor has kids the same age as my grand kids and she loans me a basket of toys to keep them occupied while they are here visiting.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always prepare as many foods ahead of time as I can and have all onions, celery and bell peppers chopped ahead of time. Most of all I always sanatize my sink and counter before and after handling the turkey that would be the main feature of the meal.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to go to my parents house! We are throwing a holiday party and that amazon gift card would come in handy . . . I want new serving dishes!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you have a old oven like I do get yourself a oven thermometer, they do not cost much. It will really save you some heartache believe me lol.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I used to do all the cooking and cleaning both before and after the big event. Everyone else watched football and had a good time. A few years ago, we changed that. I still make the turkey, but everyone in attendance (husband, sons, daughter-in-law, girlfriends) each make a dish. Everyone comes a couple of days in advance since no one lives nearby, so the house is full of sleepover guests, but that’s half the fun. I keep a list of what was made the holiday before (what we liked, what worked well, what was a miss). We coordinate kitchen time, so the house always smells good from good cooking. I have a family of foodies so there’s lots of discussion, laughs and good times. And of course, good food. I even get to watch part of the football game with the boys.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love to have appetizers and snacks on the island in the kitchen for when everyone comes in. I enjoy having everyone at my house!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Doing as much ahead of time as possible is still the best tip for entertaining in my opinion. It also leaves you time to spend with your family and friends
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Jillee’s got pretty much everything covered as far as the “manual” labor goes! My best tip is to mentally prepare for the day! When you have a few moments to do a little prepping but don’t feel like doing it, force your self to do it! You will feel a sense of accomplishment and will be better off than saving it to do until later when you are stressed/pressed for time. (Doing all the other stuff that you put off!) A “get ‘er done” attitude will get ‘er done making the day less stressful. And by all means, enjoy your family, you don’t know how long you will have them on this planet, don’t sweat the small stuff because nothing is ever perfect, and LET OTHERS HELP YOU!! (Yes, I’m screaming!) LOL
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you are serving ice cream with your desserts, save time by pre-scooping; freezing on a cookie sheet; then bagging in the freezer. Quick trick for serving ease! Works any time of year.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We take turns in my family so usually my mom hosts Tgving, my brother hosts a simple Cmas, and I do my mom’s bday which is January 1. For it, I typically prepare some sort of soup or chili, and then dessert which could be birthday cake and ice cream but typically it is a new dessert that I search out and try. I also decorate my house with balloons and signs.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to start a loaf of bread in the bread machine so it will be ready just as the guests arrive. The house smells so good!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always like to write out my menu, check for all the ingredients and try to have as much shopping done in advance as possible. The last thing I want is to stand in line at the grocery store on the eve of the holiday.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love your blog. So many other great ideas posted in comments as well, not much more to say than use all the help you can get. I really like the advice to label the serving dishes so guest can help.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Play fun festive music. Light great smelling candles.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.my tip this year(and every year :))is to go somewhere else! lol!! we split time between my family and my in-laws. fortunately they are relatively close so there is not too much traveling involved but we do bring the tablet so the kids can watch a movie or something…. just to keep them quiet!. an amazon gift card would be amazing!!thanks so much
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We do many of your tips to get ready for a holiday. The main tip I have is to prepare as much of the food ahead of time. We even cook the turkey a day ahead of time and then we reheat it in the oven with some chicken broth on it to keep it moist. Works great and you don’t have to deal with the mess of carving the turkey while you have a house full of guests. Thanks for the great giveaway.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Enjoy the family!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make the table pretty, the food tastes better!
My tip is lists. A list of things to get done before; cleaning, finishing home projects, thing to cook and prep. Then I have a list of when things need to be started, when it goes in the oven and when it comes out. The rest of the time I am free to enjoy.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to go through my decorations and make sure I have everything I need and everything is in working order before the day I decorate. Especially Christmas lights, I make sure they are working or if I need to get some replacement bulbs or a whole new string.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We go to neighbors for breakfast casserole and enjoy the company of a small group. Then we head to family event of approximately 50 adults and children. Everyone brings a dish and we order the dressing. Not much of a tip but an idea for a less stressful day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to be sure all of your platters, plates, serving dishes are out, clean and have a sticky on them of what goes where. A must when you have a large crowd over.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Timing is everything. Do all the cleaning early in the week. Then determine what food can be prepared ahead of the day of entertaining. Set the table the day before. The more that can be done before people arrive the better; otherwise you end up not enjoying the company of those you invited.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make sure I have plenty of Tupperware and zip locks ready for all the leftovers!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set the table 2 or 3 days ahead, and get out serving dishes, note what’s going in them to make sure you have exactly the perfect container for all that yummy food!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make as much as I can ahead of time and always remember to put the turkey in the fridge early enough to thaw out.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is have a glass of wine and take a deep breath and prepare to enjoy this holiday! Asking everyone to bring a side dish is also very helpful.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This is the first year I’ve hosted a holiday meal! I put everything thanksgiving into a laundry basket. Check at http://www.littleme07.blogspot.com for details. It’s a long process…. But basically, I have everything prepared and ready to go in baggies.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Try to do as much in advance work as possible, makes entertaining much easier. And clean as you cook, it won’t seem like as much work if you have cleaned the counters and dishes as you go, then when you are done you will have fabulous food AND a clean kitchen. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.For Thanksgiving we co-ordinate what everyone is bringing so that cuts down on our prep. We prepare side dishes & desserts the day before Thanksgiving so that they are ready for cooking or final touches on Thanksgiving day. Two days before we prep dishes & silverware so that they are ready on the buffet on Thanksgiving day. This allows a fairly stress free morning after turkey and ham are on and when guests start arriving.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.So glad you posted these tips. I have been cleaning all weekend. Plan to clean the oven and dishwasher tonight. I try to get as much prep work done before Thursday. Will chop vegetables and bake pies Tuesday and Wednesday. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Denise
My tip is keep it simple…no one will remember if it isn’t fancy, but they will remember if you are stressed out!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We cook our turkey while we are sleeping. Then first thing in the morning turkey is cut, gravy is made and the oven is ready for all the side dishes. Dinner can then be served at any time. This has worked for over 30 years for us.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My best tip: involve the kids. Now is the time to make some great memories. Things do not need to look perfect, but its a perfect way to make memories.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to make sure all serving dishes and utensils are out and marked for the foods that are going on them. Helps all the “helpers”.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Remember that the people at your table are always more important, more interesting, and more memorable than anything you will put on your table. Enjoy your guests.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If you have dogs make sure they get a bath and wash their beds.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.One more tip for holiday prep? Make some things ahead and freeze them! I’ll be making, eating and gifting these fantastic cookies this year. The secret ingredient? Biscoff spread! So, so delicious. http://constantlycooking.wordpress.com/2013/11/24/scrumptious-spice-cookies/
Please log in or create a free account to comment.There are dishes that can be made and frozen ahead of time and I always do that to keep me from having to spend two full days cooking. It had made life easier and less stressful!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try and figure out ahead of time ways people can help. Family always asks to help in the kitchen and I’m usually so busy I don’t have the time to think about how they can help.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is just to keep things simple and prep ahead as much as possible so you can spend time with your guests instead of in the kitchen. Unless you want to hide in the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make a list…and stick to it. You’ll be so glad you did!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to use a plain white sheet as a tablecloth and have everyone write something (with permanent marker) that they are thankful for–make sure they sign their name. Use it every year and enjoy how the kids and sentiments change. It’s best to place the sheet over an old tablecloth to avoid any permanent marks on your table! And for the first year or two you will want a nice centerpiece until the tablecloth becomes the center of attention.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My sister and I always swap new recipes we’ve enjoyed that year to mix up the typical Thanksgiving fare served.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I lay everything out early! I make sure everything is accounted for and each dish is clean and ready for serving. It makes the day much less stressful!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make what I can ahead of time and freeze it. That helps cut down on the time I need to rush to prepare on the day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.All of our snack platters are prepared the day before. All chopping, is done a day in advance as is pre measuring. All linen is ironed & the table is set the night before.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make everything you can ahead ahead of time. I’m making the turkey the day before, carving it, then on Thanksgiving I’ll just heat it in the oven.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always have the menu written down and then write down the prep steps for each day so I don’t forget anything.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My hints are daily good practice:
Please log in or create a free account to comment.* Whenever you begin to cook fill your sink with hot soapy water and wash utensils, bowls, and pans as you go.
* Reserve the front 2/3 of your counter for food preparation. Keep all decor and frequently used items on the back 1/3 of your counter.
*Empty your dishwasher as soon as you can after the cycle is completed and put dirty dishes directly into your dishwasher instead of leaving them in the sink or on the counter.
*Everything in your kitchen should be either useful or beautiful. Both is best!
*While it may be easier to do things by yourself, swallow your pride, stuff your perfectionism and take time to work side by side in the kitchen with friends and family. Many relationships have deepened over a sink, or while using a dish towel.
* Take time to gently teach the next generation. And make it fun!
Hugs,
Mary P
My best tip is to let other people help! At our church, there are several families who don’t have any biological family nearby. So, we all get together at the church building for Thanksgiving dinner. Each person signs up for 1 or 2 or 3 dishes, and nobody is stuck doing all the work!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always keep a (clean) copy of each recipe I’m using on hand – invariably someone asks for one, and if I don’t do it right then, it gets lost in the holiday shuffle!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Before you run your self-cleaning oven this holiday season, toss in your aluminum cookies sheets or pans. They will come out looking like new.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great ideas for any big gathering!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Today, I will be cleaning out the refrig, going through all needed supplies, cleaning off the guest bed. The turkey is thawing in the extra refrig, next to the ham. I’ll be cleaning and cutting up vegetables, locating all the old bread scraps for the dressing. Tomorrow I’ll do a good cleaning of the house. I’ve been at this for so many years that I already do most of what you suggested.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the chance to win.
Happy Thanksgiving!
For Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve I do a sit-down dinner. For Christmas Day & New Year’s Day I set up buffets. Prep for some dishes can be done along with the Eve cooking, leftovers can be set out for those who want them, its self-serve & you can set your buffet table as fancy or no-frills as you like.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.After Thanksgiving & Christmas is done I keep a little notebook & jot down things that went wrong & things that went right. Like what didn’t get eaten at meals & conversation topics that maybe shouldn’t be brought up again ;) If nothing else it’s interesting to read years later.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We go camping with friends for Thanksgiving! We have a potluck, and eat ouside. Stress free!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I rearrange the furniture to accomodate a larger group (table leaves) and make a more open traffic pattern to avoid accidents and make the rooms feel more open.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.As I make my list of what we will be eating, I write down which pan/dish I need to prepare and serve it in.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My niece has a ‘pie night’ the weekend before Thanksgiving because no one ever has room for dessert after the big meal.
I love to make lists of everything that I need and cross them off. Also love to bake ahead of time and freeze it so that’s one less thing to do!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I don’t try to do everything myself. Let people bring food, and don’t worry that the meal doesn’t look like something out of a cooking magazine. Paper plates are a winner :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do all the prep work a few days before so I don’t have so much to do the day of the holiday. I used to do everything myself but as I have gotten older I’ve learned the importance of sharing the load so now my family brings their share of the meal. Sure makes things easier. Everyone shares in the cleanup.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Take out all bowl and platters I’ll be using on T-day, put post it on them for what they’ll be used for.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I prep all my dishes the day before. Since we live in the northeast it is always chilly enough to leave all these dishes on my farmers porch till I can put them in the oven the next day. This leaves me plenty of time for last minute things to do before company shows up and dinner is ready to be served. I even get a few minutes to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make the pie shells ahead of time and freeze them!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I shared on Pinterest! http://www.pinterest.com/pin/67131850669346520/
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do Christmas each year. I find by making a cleaning schedule and list and a cooking/prepping schedule and list makes life easier. I also put these in a plastic sheet covers in case of spills and mishaps. Sipping wine helps!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do as much as you can in advance! Mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, table setting, floral arrangements, appetizer tray, pies, etc. We always host a big gathering of 20-50 and doing things in advance means I get to enjoy the thanksgiving party!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Rearrange the furniture to accomodate more people in the house and allow for an accident free traffic pattern.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This isn’t necessarily green, but… I’m hosting Thanksgiving this year and doing the bulk of the cooking. Also, I don’t have a dishwasher. And, we’re leaving for a week long vacation two days after Turkey Day – which means more prep. So, to save my sanity I’m making everything in disposable pans, we’re eating off of Chinet, drinking out of foam cups and using plastic utensils.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Delegate. And don’t forget to have enough ice!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to do as much as I can in advance. If making desserts, I’ll get those done the day before. Also cook ingredients for dressing and giblet gravy (saute celery and onion) and have it ready to mix and cook. I do like to start with a clean work space so I make sure that’s done the day before! Happy Thanksgiving!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to cut and chop everything I need several days in advance. Then I get out all my serving dishes that I’m going to use and make sure they are clean and ready to go, sometimes I will put little post it notes inside each dish to make sure I have the right dishes. The night before I put everything in the pan that it’s going to be cooked in and set it in the refrigerator in the garage or even in the garage if it’s cold enough, like salads. Lastly I make sure all my salt and pepper shakers are full and butter is on the butter dishes ready to go. The final thing I do is sit down and have a glass of wine to relax!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Happy Thanksgiving!!
My tip is to roast the turkey the day before in the Nesco and slice it up. that way on Thanksgiving i put the sliced turkey back in the Nesco roaster and cover it with turkey or chicken broth and let it warm up. It is tender and amazing! I also like to prepare most of the casserole dishes the day before and then bake them on Thanksgiving so I have much less dishes and slop and more time to visit with my guests. I could really use a gift card this year because our oven died this week and we have no money to replace it. I will be taking our casserole dishes to our neighbors house to bake them….how embarrassing, but grateful for the neighbors!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Light candles! Big one, small ones, and especially one in the bathroom :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip that works great every year is to roast the turkey the day before in my Nesco roaster. That way, all the mess of carving the turkey will be done and then on Thanksgiving, I put the sliced turkey meat back in the nesco on warm and covered in chicken or turkey broth. It works so well and then I have the oven free for the rest of the things that day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Plan ahead! I’ve had my grocery list for Thanksgiving and Christmas for a month, and I keep adding to it! Write down everything step by step.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to make lists! Beginning a wk before I make a daily job list for myself in order to make sure I get everything done. Grocery Shop before the masses on Wednesday. Thaw turkey a wk before. Prep as much food before Thursday as possible. Put leaf in table and set the table a couple days before. When do I need to start cooking the turkey if guests are arriving at 12:30? Figure it out and make your Thanksgiving Day list quite detailed. Hr by hr! Stress free!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I put everything out on the counter the night before. That way I save time but I also know if I’m missing anything.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always read over recipes ahead of time so I’m not surprised by the next step.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Try to prep as much as you can ahead of time, then try to have fun yourself.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I create a checklist for each day so that nothing sneaks up on me. I make sure that anything I can do prior to Thanksgiving gets done so that I have time to relax and have fun too!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Candles, candles, candles! When lit, everything looks festive and prettier, and they make people relax. They are a simple thing that can add a special touch.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great tips! I never thought about the pans….I always have that one wit he loose lid, too! I always make a menu and diagram the buffet placement! Happy Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Breathe, relax and enjoy!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Remember to ask for God’s blessing on holiday morning, and every day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Be kind to yourself. If you are the cook for the entire dinner, it is ok to take shortcuts, with a quality prepared gravy or mashed potatoes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I take time to relax at least a day before the holiday madness begins. Remember the things you are thankful for.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My MIL taught me to make copies of all the recipes I’m using. It saves LOTS of room (no bulky cookbooks on the counter!) and if you spill or smudge the recipe, no big deal!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make lots of lists! Menu list, ingredint list-then I check what i need to put on my grocery list, decorating list, then my strategy list-helps me delegate my time for each dish made, every room to be cleaned, all decorating, etc. I cant survive without lists!!! =)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I do make-ahead mashed potatoes days ahead of time so I’m not mashing while guests are waiting.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.12 potatoes, cooked til soft
Beat or mash then add 1 pkg (8oz) soft cream cheese, 1 reg size container sour cream, salt and pepper and garlic salt to taste. Mix well
Add milk if needed. Spread in greased 9×13. Pour 1/4 cup butter on top
Sprinkle with paprika, if desired. Freeze or refrigerate if necessary. Thaw. Bake @ 350° 45-60 min or til hot in middle
Yummy for leftovers too!!
My advice is go through your recipes and make a list of items you’ll need for baking, and holiday dinners. Now each week go through the grocery ads and see what’s on sale. Stock up when it’s on sale, even if you won’t use it right away.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to plan for all guests’ dietary needs–be it GF, vegetarian, vegan, peanut-free, etc. It’s not such a great holiday for those who can’t find any safe food to eat.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’ve cooked my turkey the day before Thanksgiving for years! This was a tip from a mom of 17 children who said she cooked TWO turkeys the day before Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Keep it simple, calm and stress free. Break every task down into its component parts and put these on your “to do” list – then you will have the pleasure of ticking things off more quickly. Enjoy!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to use name cards with each guests name that my children make so everyone finds their seat. The grandparents just love seeing their name cards that their grandchildren created!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m lucky this year–just have to bake and bring. Good luck to you all and have a Great Thanksgiving!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Dividing up the cooking list has been the best. It takes a lot of pressure off the cooks and has given me more time to experiment with new rescipies that I may not have the time to do otherwise.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is for weather you are hosting the dinner or joining family and friends at another persons home; share the cooking. Decide who is able to make what food item to make the entire cooking for and eatting of the meal more enjoyable and less time consumming. This is what My mother in law and I do
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Invest less time in worrying if everything is good enough and more time into enjoying your time together with family and friends. After all that is what the season is really about. Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.As a new mommy, I’ve become a fan of accepting help when it’s offered. I’ll be using that advice this holiday season as well. If someone is offering to bring an app or side dish, let them!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I set up a kids’ corner in my house with play dough, crayons and paper, toys from kids’ meals and lots of books. The kids run right to it & it helps the parents have time to relax before the meal starts.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I usually prepare a sausage egg bake casserole for breakfast in advance. I can easily serve a hearty breakfast to my overnight guests and be able to continue my preparations for the big meal that day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to do as much as I can days before. That includes setting table, cleaning serving dishes and prepping food that can keep for a few days in the fridge.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Add two boxes of baking soda to your grocery list, so that after you clean out the fridge and freezer you can put in fresh soda.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks so much for all your posts, Jillee!
Use the giblets and neck to make the broth for the dressing. You may need to add extra chicken broth, but nothing compares dressing prepared this way. Love your site!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to do as much ahead of time as I possibly can. For me it decreases the stress level so much and I can enjoy my day. But in the end, sometimes I just have to let go of the things I didn’t get done (I have big dreams) and be grateful for what I was able to do!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My hint is to always have a checklist of what needs to be done each day of the week leading to Thanksgiving. Make as much as you can ahead of time and use the crockpot as much as possible!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Jeanne
I spend the day before cooking everything possible. Prepare sides and place a sticker on top of each with all the finishing instructions (additional ingredients,time and temp). If topping is required I assemble and put in a Baggie and place on top of dish. Table is set the night before. That leaves only the pies and turkey for Thanksgiving day. Makes for a relaxing holiday!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do ahead as much as possible! Find time to be with your guests and enjoy them as much as possible.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We always make sure to have on music as our guests arrive to set the atmosphere. My husband handles music & lighting and stays out of my way in the kitchen. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to make a list of items that I can do ahead (like the day before or two days before). That keeps me organized and allows me more time with my guests.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Not only do I prep my food a few days in advance, I make sure my family’s outfits are all ready. I don’t want to be scrambling on Thanksgiving getting everyone ready. Thanks for the great post and giveaway.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This is the perfect time to take a few minutes to reflex on those less fortunate and people who you may know who are alone for the holidays and extend an invitation to them to join in your family for dinner to celebrate. Our daughters are so used to us doing that, they now ask friends of theirs, who are alone, to join us. I have been alone once for the Holidays and it can be a painful experience. Reaching out to keep someone from being alone is an awesome way to experience just how THANKFUL and fortunate we are to have family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip could be used for any gatherings involving food. It saves so much stress if you cook as much as you can in advance, instead of trying to cook the entire meal on the day of the event. Many things can be made a day before and stored in the fridge, or even stored days before in the freezer!
Thanks for the chance to win!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.wildorchid985 at gmail dot com
Do as much prep work as possible a few days early and delegate as many duties and side dishes as possible.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to try something new. In my family since we are all adults now we get together atcmy uncles house and each family member will bring a different dish. Someone usually writes down what everyone is bringing so theres no repeats. This includes desert. Its great because you get to taste everyone’s cooking and you get a variety of foods.
Juliana
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make my grocery list while going through the recipes I will be using. I also pull the recipes to keep handy. Then I make a list of things that need to be done by day up until the big day. It helps me keep on track and not feel as overwhelmed. My girls will be home and they are a huge help in the kitchen! When the big day arrives, we do all the traditional things and enjoy each others company.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.even though we have a really small family we don’t see each other very often so getting together during the holidays is always a big deal for us. thanksgiving is always at my dad’s house and is very casual. we typically hang out while dad prepares dinner and catch up. none of us are big football fans but we almost always watch the game during dinner. this year i’m going to bring some homemade dinner rolls and hopefully a dessert (not sure what yet, though!) and my brother usually makes a pumpkin cheesecake. after dinner we’ll skype with my younger sister who lives in new mexico and then indulge in dessert and coffee. my 7-year-old niece always makes things fun!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.No one has better advice for entertaining than Julia Child!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.“This is my invariable advice to people: Learn how to cook- try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!”
Enjoy your thanksgiving traditions as well as others. Have people bring their favorite dishes. It keeps each year different and also leaves more time to focus on your dishes.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.When entertaining over the holidays I sometimes just serve Heavy Appitizers buffet style. People seem to enjoy them and it keeps them moving aound.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do any of the cooking that you can the day before. That way you can spend more time with your family b/c all you have to do is warm some things up
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Try to pre -plan as much as possible. Promise myself that I wont stress over it and always have chineese and pizza on speed dial if something goes wrong :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always set the table a couple of days ahead. Also, pull out all the recipes I am going to use and the ones I can make the day before, I do those. I also pull out serving dishes and mark with a post-it what it will be used for. Right before everyone comes over, I have a glass of wine.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make sure to have plenty of plastic storage containers on hand, so that I can send leftovers home with my kids and grandkids.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We tend to eat later in the day, so I have the guys do the big moving of stuff early and then they go off to do guy stuff and my mom, aunt, niece and I put music on and enjoying the cooking and the decorating! A few days before I get out my linens, plates, silverware and extra table decor and make sure everyone is clear on what to bring . I also always have a fun game ready to for the special dinner, this year it’s a left, right story and we gather all the black Friday specials and make a plan for family shopping time !
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to have a checklist of everything you need to do leading up to the day and then another checklist the day off. I always have to write everything down and a checklist helps me not to forget anything.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I chop veggies for cooking (onions bellpeppers celery) and freeze them, and also do the same with cookie doughs.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Choose dishes that can either be assembled day before or cooked day before and just reheated. Love your blog!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I work a lot of Holidays so I clean my vegetables, do my table, and do a lot of prep work the night before. Have a nice Thanksgiving everyone !!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to prep as much as possible the day before. All vegies cleaned and cut up, cheeses sliced, cranberry ready to serve, serving trays laid out, etc. Saves me from last minute panic!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am short on counter space, so I like to make pretty labels to put on the cupboards where I keep my teas, hot cocoa and mugs. It makes my kitchen more do-it-yourself, and saves the valuable space.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I use my biggest crockpot to cook my stuffing in when I am roasting a turkey. I use a smaller one to keep mashed potatoes warm – just remember to butter the crock pots.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I don’t have any new tips to tell you about, but I sure have read a lot of great tips from this page! Thank you everybody!
HaPpY Thanksgiving!!!
Jeanie
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I think my best tip is not to stress, it’s family and whatever happens it’s fine, have a glass of wine and have fun. enjoy your holidays…..xo
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always try to do any food prep at least 24 hours in advance. For example:
Please log in or create a free account to comment.1 Chop all vegetables needed for stuffing.
2 Don’t cut root vegetables up and leave them in water. They lose important vitamins & minerals. Most times you can just make the dish they are to be used in and reheated. No one will know the difference!
Great idea to remind to clean oven. I forgot only once. That Thanksgiving was SMOKIN (not a good one either). Never again.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for all of the ideas – Being the caretaker of my 93 year old Mom – I appreciate all of the “direction” to stay focused for the Holidays – and the safety tips are a reminder of what needs to be done to have a healthy and safe Holiday….
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Pre-make and freeze mashed potatoes. It’s easy, huge timesaver & works! You can scoop them onto an tray with an ice cream scoop and flash freeze. When you need them, pop them into a warm oven for 25 mins. & you are ready to go!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My husband and I make a time line for the day and tape it up on a cupboard nook. Noone forgets to start the potatoes or what not because everyone keeps and eye on the time all day bc of the turkey. Works great and so much less stress that remembering start this 30 min before that and check this 45 min before those….
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set place cards of where people should sit. It looks elegant and them when you are crazy busy you won’t be stopped to direct traffic.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.First things first. I talk to family members and ask them what food item is it they really want at thThanksgiving meal, that goes on te menu . The I fill in any holes. Next I get out my recipe cards and from that isle a shopping list . After that, I got to work on my kitchen. Everything is cleaned and organized to received the groceries I am bringing home. Lastly, based on my needs, I know where I will find my best deal too. Do I have $100.0 of food to buy? Then my turkey will be &.59 at one store. If I have $200.00 it could be free.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.So shop around the week before as you could save a lot on that bird. Oh and don’t forget…..you have tons of help at home. You say they don’t cook? Fine! Why would you want them all in there at the same time anyway? A cook really appreciates someone cleaning up the mess and deboning that turkey and nicely putting meat into zip lock bags. Some like the carcass saved after deboning for spun making so ask you hostess before tossing. As my adult kids head home, I send them with Thanksgiving dinner for the next day. Always makes me happy to see them smile again knowing they can have turkey next day too.
I clean the guest bathroom a couple days beforehand and then it is OFF LIMITS to the children.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Don’t forget to replace the roll of toilet paper! No-one likes that surprise.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make lists! I usually make one list for each day, starting 2 or 3 days before the day I’ll entertain. This way I won’t forget taking things out of the freezer!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the chance!
ap_lemos at yahoo dot com
Just as Jillee suggests, label all your serving pieces AND lay them out where you want them to go, to make sure you have enough room. Then set out your hot pads (I love the cork trivets from Ikea), set your serving utensil along side AND label the spot. Now, when you have lots of extra hands helping you get the meal on the table, they will know what serving piece to use AND where it goes!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to prep and make side dishes the night before so that on Thanksgiving day all that is left to cook is the turkey.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make a list before I hit the store because I inevitably forget something and have to make another–unnecessary–trip.
Also, since I started storing milk in glass bottles http://www.redhillgeneralstore.com/housewares/kitchen/kitacc/Glass-Milk-Bottles.htm , my refrigerator looks so much more organized and keeps the product fresher, longer.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Everyone has got great tips! Before the holidays I do some serious house cleaning and decluttering. I take all the things I no longer need to Goodwill . I love to have my home smelling good. I especially enjoy a big pot of apple cider with cinnamon sticks simmering on the stove! Making memories with your loved ones and family is what makes the holidays soo special!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Do dishes as you go along so that there aren’t as many to do after dinner.
Also, don’t forget the champagne (or other drink of choice) to toast to each other and the things you are thankful for. It’s definitely my favorite part!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I LOVE your site !! I do most of above as well but there were, as always, some VERY good extra tips to add to the usual holiday schedule. You have the best tips and info !!! Happy Holidays and thanks so much !!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to share the work load after all it is a family holiday, have someone lay the the table , I’ve 3 daughters & one will prepare the table another one will prep the vegetables & the youngest of them all will make dessert ok it maybe fruit in jello with ice “hey ” she’s 11
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip…quit stressing, all they really care about is that the food and company are good, the rest is fluff and nonsense
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks for the reminders. One thing I do early is to make sure my supply of pecans, walnuts, etc is sufficient for the dishes I’ll be preparing for the holidays. It’s more economical to visit the local nut vending company rather than running to the store at the last minute.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’m having my first Christmas gathering at our new house, and I’ve already done a few things to make the day less stressful. First, I went ahead and stood in line in the bitter cold for an hour so I can get a few boxes of food containers on sale. I know I’ll need them when getting ready for the day, as well as to send my guests off with extras that night. Also, I found a nifty organizer for the party that consolidates all the utensils, plates, and napkins on one handy dandy stand. This will not only save space on the table, but I’m sure will look great too! And finally, I’ve got lists on top of lists going, on a word document to make sure all the details are not forgotten.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Terrific post with things I sometimes forget to do. One thing I do at the holidays is extra baking. I package up the cookies, etc. that I make in pretty holiday bags with ribbon and stick them in the freezer. That way, when unexpected guests come by, I can give them a bit of holiday cheer when they leave.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Make anything you can ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy the day with your guests. I like Susan V’s suggestion to make a cooking list for Thanksgiving week and cook something every day – smart thinking! But then, Melissa M’s prep party sounds like it would be fun too! So many great ideas from everyone here!! Now to go clean both refrigerators and all 4 freezers…not my favorite thing to do!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip really isn’t about the cooking part of Thanksgiving [recipes, decorating] rather it’s about capturing the moments in the kitchen with friends and family by taking lots of random photographs of all the action. I love having the photos of my grandchildren [and m!] in the kitchen framed a placed around the kitchen of past times we’ve spent cooking together!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to make my menus up and grocery list well in advance of Thanksgiving for both Thanksgiving and Christmas and do my shopping early. Saves money (I think) and saves the last minute rushes for the staples!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I start cleaning in advance and do my best to cultivate Christmas smells of tangerines, cinnamon and vanilla around the house. My daughter is in charge of Christmas stories to read and to watch. I also try to cook only as much as we need to avoid overeating and throwing away. We bake cookies and give them away as Christmas treats!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I’ve actually done some of these. (Pat myself on the back). But now have a couple more things to do! Great ideas! 2 more items to add to the basics list: Coffee (for my family) and good ol’ TP! You’re going to need that! ;)
One thing we started doing several years ago was to put together all the sides the day before and peel the potatoes, (put them in a pan of water & refrigerate; drain, rinse & refill when ready to cook)!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Remember to carve out some rest and rejuvenation time for ourselves! So we can be at our best! Happy holidays!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Identify early people who do not have family to be with and invite them. Make a list of everything you want to make and then cut it in half! Remind myself the goal is not to impress anyone it is to enjoy their company.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always have a list of guests, what they are bringing and what I am making. I also write down which ingredients I need and cross them off as I buy them. I make as many dishes the day before so the kitchen can be cleaned. I also set the dining room table the morning of and set out the serving dishes and utensils. Prep is key!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always clean, before making any thing, I can’t work with dirty dishes in the sink, love your site
Please log in or create a free account to comment.let each family member bring a signature dish to main dinners–memories in the making!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Relax & enjoy…. it’s nice when everything trues out perfect but in most cases it don’t.. do your best & don’t sweat the small stuff… love & remain claim & just love on your people….
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make my centerpiece with upside down wine glasses different sizes, candles on top stuff something in the bottom, flowers, Christmas balls etc perfect height so everyone can still see over to talk.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make holiday friend treat giving easier by making a sweet cinnamon bread wreath that my mom used to make and then instead of baking it, I freeze it. I can make them early in December and give them to friends. It’s our make-it-when-you-want-it goodie plate. Plenty of my friends eat it Christmas morning and look forward to it!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make lots of lists. With so much going on this time of year I tend to be very forgetful. Plus there are certain dishes that I cook only at the holiday season so I make one list just of the ingredients needed for them to make sure that the special spices and other speciality items are still good and are on hand.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I will be prepping all chopped veggies on Tuesday evening. I chop, bag and label so I can grab & dump on Thursday morning. I also bought a few cheap new toys for my 1 & 3 year olds- hopefully this will help keep them out of the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip for the holidays is to have a pre-holiday prep party. Invite close friends and relatives to your house to help you do baking and prep that can be done in advance. Offer to have snacks and refreshments, maybe even a bit of wine to mark the occasion. You get to see your friends and get help (and wine!) without all the usual holiday stress.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Set up some activities specifically for younger guests and make sure to include kid-friendly snacks. (Keep separate any items with nuts or other known allergens and/or clear these with Moms in advance.)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I make 4 “To Cook” lists. One each for Mon, Tues, Wed and Thanksgiving day. Each day I bake and cook certain dishes that can either be frozen or refrigerated. Saves me so much time so that I don’t have to rush on Wednesday night or Thursday morning.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.We usually serve food buffet style, due to space issues. I find it helpful to set up a separate card table just for desserts. Then they aren’t in the way when everyone is filling their plates with dinner, but they are convenient when people are ready for dessert.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Biggest tip is to remember to be thankful for the many blessings…. big and small. Next, tip is to try to relax, my biggest critics are family but I find the more relaxed I am, the easier I can go with the flow and just bounce off any negativity. It will all be over soon and the days of leftovers are a treat.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Happy Thanksgiving and holiday season to you and your family!
Peace for all.
Judy
I love your list!!
My biggest tip is prep and plan!! I try to do as much the day(or a couple days) before as I can! I also plan down to the T ha..with my menu, grocery list, coupons, etc.
Thanks for the chance to win! Happy Thanksgiving!(early)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.The best tip I have in preparing for Thanksgiving is to do something each day (or for me each evening after work) the week of Thanksgiving. This helps reduce the time spent in the kitchen on Thanksgiving and allows you more time to relax and enjoy family and friends.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Expanding the table from seating for 2 to seating for 15 is the most work in my house. Rounding up table boards, chairs and dishes is always done at least the weekend before the holiday, saving me time and energy for cooking (as much ahead of time as possible).
Please log in or create a free account to comment.After making my menu list, than my grocery list, dividing it by fruits, veggies, dairy, meats, canned, dry goods, etc. Than I inventory my food storage so I don’t over buy. Next I make my prep list with oven temps, cooking times, what can be made ahead, what can be frozen, etc. I than start from meal time and fill in that day backwards with meal preparation. The table was set a day or two earlier, along with all dishes, glasses, serving pieces and utensils pulled, labeled and cleaned. On the big day, I actually have time to enjoy my company between meal prep because lots was done prior to the big day and there is down time between preparation.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Great guide for a stress free holiday cook-a-thon! Especially #6, Declutter Your Kitchen. I do my best cooking when my countertops are clean and tidy. I keep my sink full of hot, soapy water and I’m constantly wiping down the counters as I work. For some reason it makes me feel more in control of the chaos!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I plan my menu weeks in advance and shop for basics over several weeks. It seems to work for me
Please log in or create a free account to comment.If I am going to try new recipes, I do a trial run first. Plus I make things early and freeze them. I like to be a relaxed hostess.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Have the hor’doerves prepped the day before so they are ready to go. Make coffee and hot cider with mugs out ready to go.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I like to set my table a couple of days ahead. That way I get to enjoy how pretty it looks every time I pass by it and it’s one less thing to do the day of Thanksgiving! Takes some of the pressure off. I love your tips…practical and simple ways to make holiday entertaining run more smoothly.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My only holiday entertaining tip is to accept the help of your guests if they offer. This helps me feel less like an uninterested host for being busy in the kitchen, and I find it’s more enjoyable for everyone when they are participating in the preparations. Plus, it limits the stress on myself and my husband. If someone asks if they can help, I say, “Yes!”.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday tip is to prepare as much as possible in advance ~ baking can be frozen even a month in advance (either baked or unbaked); many side dishes can be made the day before; appetizers, crudite and dips can be prepped the day before or morning of then just popped in the oven to heat, if required; spatchcocking a turkey allows it to roast in 90 minutes or less. Have the table set the night before and all of the dessert plates, cups, flatware, etc. set up in a corner of the kitchen or diningroom (or even on top of your washer and dryer) and ready to go about half an hour after finishing dinner. That leaves time for everyone to pitch in clearing the table and packaging up leftovers for guests to take home. The more that’s done ahead of time, the more relaxed you’ll be and you might even have time to mingle both before and after dinner.
Thanks for a chance at the giveaway.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock up on extra dog treats and toys to keep your four-legged company entertained.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.During the holidays we always have people dropping in. I always try to make up something to give as a gift. I use mason jars and make up cocoa mix, brownie or cookie mixes and put a pretty little bow on them for just these occasions. We always make sure we have an extra supply of soda and drink mixes, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.Since we are not really drinkers, we usually have a one drink limit (in case they are driving).
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I always start early. Prepare things that can be re-heated a day or two ahead, set the table the night before, use a crock pot to keep things warm and always keep at least one backup in case something fails.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love doing the prep, de-clutter and prep at holiday time. It is my kitchen’s version of spring cleaning. I also make up my own vanilla extract and seasoning mixes (taco, ranch dressing, fish herbs ) at this time of year. Thank you some great new ideas!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I try to buy seasonal decor type items that can be used from Thanksgiving through Christmas when entertaining company. I go for colors (fall/holiday like orange, red, green) and general themes (pumpkins, harvest, cornocopias, apples/red & green, etc) that will translate well through all three (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas).
I do ‘tweak’ a little with a few special touches specific to the holiday in question, but the big stuff – anything I have to have a lot of or that is pricey – often gets the ‘tri-holiday’ approach.
This also saves me time when setting up, taking down and storing-less of it to do during those months and more time to do other things.
BONUS: some colors can be used for other holidays during the year, like green for St. Patty’s Day and red for Valentine’s. This makes beauitful but ‘plain’ colored linens, dishes, candles, etc useful year round.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.A crockpot and a little preplanning can be a lifesaver for big holiday meals. I use two of them to make our main dish of pork and sauerkraut during our New Years dinner.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to write down 5 things I am grateful for before I head for the kitchen.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Before the guests arrive have the dishwasher (a squeaky clean one, no less–I’m going to clean mine this afternoon now that I know the magic!) empty and ready to receive all of the party dishes. I refuse to use disposable plates and cups, so my washer gets full. If there is a break in the action, and it doesn’t make me seem like a bad hostess, I’ll even load it and run it (it’s quiet) while we’re transitioning to dessert.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.No need to wait until the last minute to prepare your mashed potatoes. Make them ahead of time and keep them warm in your crockpot.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My holiday entertaining tip is to not be afraid to utilize others’ offers to help. I’m terrible about delegating because I’m so particular about things and also because I don’t want my guests to have to help me, but instead be able to visit and relax. That usually runs me ragged and I can’t wait for the guests to leave, so I can sit down and relax. Just accept the help and don’t sweat the small stuff! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Stock up on Ziploc containers to store or send away left overs; let others help with anything they would like to
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I pull out all my serving bowls and platters the day before, make sure they are clean and then put a slip of paper in it/on it telling what will be served in it. It makes it easier when others are helping you get everything ready.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My biggest prep tip for Thanksgiving is to BREATHE!! This is a time to reflect, relax, and reconnect with those we love! Ask for help, share tasks, and remember, this day comes once a year. No matter what, enjoy the day!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I take time to relax myslef. the day can be stressful and overwhelming so decompressing before hand helps a lot
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I positively LOVE this list and I will be making sure that I do ALL of these things before I get to cooking this week!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip is to light some candles and make some apple cider on the stove about an hour before guests arrive to have the atmosphere warm and inviting. (And if you have a fireplace light it up!)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Love your site.. Just signed up for the newsletter. Always so much good information!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I buy table runners from the fabric store. I pick my fall or christmas theme material. I then make sure it runs 36 inches wide and I get enough material to allow it to pool and drape on floor. It easy and looks stunning.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Like your post-it tip sort of, but I always make a list of what I’m preparing & what others are bringing. I mark them off as they are prepped, adding their location (fridge, freezer, pantry, etc.). Helpers can look at the list & see what needs doing.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love to make my lemonade and tea the day or two before, and more the day if! It’s great to have on hand while I’m cooking! I also like to get the table ready and the veggies I will be needing done in advance! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My tip (for this year) is…go to the neighbor’s :) Otherwise, my tip tends to be to do whatever possible in advance so that you are able to spend time with your guests.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have my daughter slice, dice and chop everything we are going to need for our meal 3-4 days in advance, so everything is ready to go when I am.. 1-2 days before I prepare all of the side dishes. The night before, after everyone has gone to sleep I make all of the pies and while those are baking I prepare the appetizers.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My favorite tip is the week before the holiday
Try new recipes on your family
Also- bring something to the event that you can eat
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Especially if dieting or vegetarian!
Jennifer :-)