Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for getting the family together and giving thanks. Having everyone together in one place is like having a family reunion every year! Here are a few tips for hosting a Thanksgiving dinner party that may help to ensure the success of the special day.

Although there is really no need to decorate for Thanksgiving as you would for Christmas, it is a nice touch that says, "Welcome" to everyone. A fall wreath on the door, perhaps pumpkins by the entrance, and a cornucopia filled with fruit for the table are a few ideas that will make your home festive. Candles lit in several rooms will make it warm and inviting.

A general idea of how many people will be coming is a good start when preparing the Thanksgiving meal. Make sure you have sufficient table settings, such as plates, glassware and silverware. Decide if you will place all the food on the dining room table or set up a buffet. You will also need to plan for seating arrangements. If you do not have a large enough dining room table, you will want to add extra seating to accommodate everyone. You may even consider renting extra tables and chairs. They can be covered and placed so that everyone can sit together at mealtime.

When hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, preparation is the key. However, it does not need to be a stressful time. Make a list of what you will serve, and as you list each item, jot down the ingredients you will need for preparing it. Decide if you will be doing all the cooking or if guest will be bringing a dish. Making a list will ensure you do not forget any details of preparing the meal.

Shopping in advance may propose a problem if you do not have the space to store everything. So remember to buy what you can early, saving the larger items for a day or two before hand. Buying the turkey at least two days early will allow you to store it in the refrigerator to thaw instead of having to make room for it in the freezer. Another thing to think about is making sure you have the appropriate cookware you will need. You may need to borrow extra items such as roasting pans, casserole dishes; baking pans, bowls and serving spoons, for cooking for a crowd will usually require more of these items.

While everything is being prepared the night before or the day of Thanksgiving, remember to put out appetizers to hold everyone over until time for dinner. It does not have to be heavy appetizers, or even too fancy, but smelling all that wonderful food cooking will definitely make everyone hungry! Remember to include fun, but healthy foods for the children as well.

Desserts, rolls and beverages are the last items to plan for. A few traditional Thanksgiving pies, maybe a cake or pudding dish, and brownies for the kids will usually be enough. Dinner rolls that are already cooked and only need to be heated are easier than making homemade breads. Tea, water, soft drinks and juice are usually the normal choices. You can also make punch as a special treat for the kids, and coffee for adults to enjoy with dessert. Lastly, do not forget to have plenty of ice on hand, and make sure you remember condiments such as butter, jelly, gravies and cranberry sauce. To-go boxes or paper plates are perfect to have on hand for sending leftovers home, if there are any!

While a lot of work goes in to hosting a Thanksgiving dinner party, the joy of having family and friends together in one place is worth every minute. Getting organized before hand will allow you to have time as well to enjoy, share, and give thanks for loved ones.

Learn more about this author, Kat Ballew.
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