4 Easy Ways to Make Thanksgiving Hosting Manageable

The holidays are almost upon us! It’s an exciting time of year with a slight chill in the air, we are spending time with family and friends, and the scent of the season’s yummy treats is wafting out of our kitchens. 

If you are anything like me and have the "This year must be the best year ever!" syndrome, you might be feeling your stress level rising with each passing day as the holidays approach. 

The hardest part of any holiday planning is deciding where to start with all the crazy ideas I have in my mind! Do you relate? So let's start with Thanksgiving hosting basics. 

You may be saying, “Jeanelle, I already know the basics!” I know, but trust me, once these steps are out of the way, your brain will be much more accepting of creativity and bringing on more tasks. Here we go!

1. Clean Out Your Fridge

Most people don't clean out their fridge very often, which means old condiments and unsightly containers may be hiding in plain sight, taking up unnecessary room in your already limited space during the holidays. 

Declutter the fridge by throwing out oversized condiment containers and update them with smaller size portions that will actually be used up before their expiration date.

2. Pull Out Holiday Serving Ware Early

Don't wait! Before you start cooking and preparing for your holiday get-together, pull out your holiday serving ware and linens from storage. Take them out early, get them cleaned up and ready to go so that you have a plan before you get started.

3. Prepare the Table the Night Before

One of the things that I have learned the hard way is that if you want a stress-free start, it's always a good idea to plan the night before. That goes for everything! Kids lunch, your workbag, putting things in the car, etc. Same rules apply here. Set your table the night before the big day to take the pressure off.

4. Arrange a Self-Serve Station

Make your life easy and set up a drink and snack station where your guests can serve themselves while you are adding your finishing touches to the day and enjoying your time with your guest. Better yet, put that station where the conversation is easy to be a part of without getting in your way.

All The Work Is Worth It

Remember why you chose to host Thanksgiving! This is where you make memories, and you spend time with your loved ones. Set yourself up for happiness and less stress by preparing ahead. 

I’m wishing you all an easy and organized holiday season!

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Xoxo,

Jeanelle