How to: Host a Flawless Thanksgiving

How To: Host A Flawless Thanksgiving

You need a few things to set the thanksgiving holiday off right.

Let's get right to it. 

1. You need a Theme.

This will help you decorate with direction. Try something festive like: fall harvest or autumn holiday.

2. Decide on a color palette.

Choose 2 signature colors and a metal (gold,silver). Use this as a reference for your celebration. 

3. Decorate.

Keep it simple yet effective. If you want to wow your guests or touch their hearts your decor should reflect just that. Here are some ideas that you can use as a checklist. 

Table runner
Centerpiece 
Balloons
Family Pictures

4. Personalize the experience.

Create place settings instead of buffet style eating. Think of your guests what will they like? 

Don't forget these things. ..

Namecards

Placemats 

Napkin Rings

5. Ambiance is vital.

Create the mood for the desired attitude. Lighting and music are your powerful weapons. Use them wisely. Create a Playlist and think of using different lamps or outside lighting for true ambiance. I love the playlist on Spotify and you can join with a free 30-day trial. 

6. Your menu can be semi-homemade.

It's not that serious. You are busy and you have a 2014 lifestyle. Be creative. Doctor up a box cake, order a cheesecake or add spiced meat to canned veggies. Trust me, no one will judge you. ..well, maybe. I follow Sandra Lee from the Food Network Channel. She has amazing ideas and recipes.

7. Entertainment must be organized.

If you want to have control of how your guests are entertained then set up "stations". The television should be in a separate room away from the festivities. After all, fellowship should not be viral on Thanksgiving. Here are some fun "station" ideas.

Board Games

Icebreakers 

Photo Albums

8. Dress the part.

You must be mobile and flexible. Be the hostess with the mostess.  If you can do this in heels or flats. ..makes no difference. Also, wear something dazzling. You'll thank me after you read number 10.

9. End with a finale.

Why not a holiday  movie or a round of "what I am thankful for"? Get people connected and allow them to tap into their emotions. Just remember that this cannot be forced. Organic emotional sharing is healing.

10. Commemorate your day.

 

Be picture ready and appropriate. To do this properly you must plan ahead. Think out your outfit and hair prior to the big day. Use long wear lipstick to avoid reapplying all day. Have a few  cameras handy or appoint two people to take candid shots. Relying on one person is a set up for disappointment. I suggest Polaroids since the immediate prints can double as take home gifts for your guests.

Hope this helps. I'd love to heat your feedback on this one.

XoXo, Monday