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How to Plan an Easy and Unforgettable Friendsgiving
Hey there! It’s fall and what better excuse to get together with your friends than to host a friendsgiving! If you’re looking for tips on how to plan an easy and unforgettable Friendsgiving, you’re in the right place. We’ve got you covered with some stress-free ideas that will make your gathering a true feast of friendship and gratitude.
Plan Head
Start by picking a date and sending out invitations well in advance. This will ensure that all your friends can mark their calendars and join in the fun. Choose a date that works for everyone.
Here are some cute invitations I found on etsy for you to use!
Potluck Style:
Friendsgiving is all about coming together, so why not make it a potluck? Ask your friends to bring their favorite dishes, potluck-style. This takes the pressure off you as the host and lets everyone share their culinary talents. Just coordinate with your friends to ensure a variety of dishes like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and desserts.
Check out my post on quick and easy Thanksgiving Appetizers!! HERE
Delegate!!
To make sure the meal is well-balanced and not overrun with mashed potatoes, create a sign-up sheet or delegate specific dishes to your friends. This way, you can avoid having too many duplicate dishes and ensure a wide variety of options for everyone to enjoy!
Set The Scene:
You don’t need to go all-out on decorations, but a little effort can make a big difference. Think about some simple autumn-themed decorations like pumpkins, candles, and table settings. You can even ask your friends to bring some decorations to add a personal touch to the event
Read my post with over 30 Beautiful Thanksgiving/Fall Tablescapes for you to copy HERE!
Stock up on essentials:
Make sure you have all the essential tools and equipment for cooking and serving. You’ll need roasting pans, serving platters, utensils, and a carving knife for that turkey. Don’t forget the basics like plates, cutlery, napkins, and glasses. If you’re short on any of these, you can borrow or rent them to keep things easy and cost-effective.
Shop here for anything you may be missing!
Drinks, Drinks, Drinks:
Alongside the scrumptious food, don’t forget to have a selection of beverages on hand. Provide a variety of options, including non-alcoholic choices, wine, beer, and perhaps a signature Friendsgiving cocktail. Ask your guests to bring their favorite beverages too, to keep everyone’s tastes in mind.
Activities and Games:
Keep the atmosphere lively and engaging by planning some activities or games. You could have a “thankful jar” where everyone writes down something they’re thankful for, and you read them aloud during the meal. Or, go with classic board games or a friendly trivia quiz to keep everyone entertained. My friends and I usually have so much to catch up on we spend the whole evening talking!
Music Playlist:
Create a Friendsgiving playlist or ask one of your music-savvy pals to curate one. Tunes that set the mood and spark nostalgia can enhance the ambiance and create a cozy, festive atmosphere. If you have an Amazon Alexa device and Amazon Music account you can easily create playlists ahead of time. We have the Amazon show in our kitchen and love it! Get your free trial here!
Shop here for Amazon Devices
Consider Dietary Restrictions:
Check with your friends if they have any dietary restrictions or allergies. Make sure there are options for everyone to enjoy. Having a few vegetarian or gluten-free dishes on the menu can make a big difference.
Activity and table for Kids:
If you and/or your friends have kids, set up a small space for them to sit separately, use a paper tablecloth or placemats and include cups of crayons or markers for coloring, consider a cute and easy fall or thanksgiving themed craft!
Leftovers Ready:
Prepare some takeout containers or Ziplock bags for your guests. This way, they can take home leftovers, and you won’t be stuck with a mountain of turkey and stuffing to consume on your own.
Be Gracious:
Remember the true spirit of Friendsgiving – gratitude and togetherness. Take a moment to express your thankfulness for each other, and encourage your friends to do the same. It’s a beautiful tradition that can add a deep and heartfelt dimension to your celebration.
Safety First:
Lastly, always prioritize safety, especially if you’re consuming alcoholic beverages. Make sure everyone has a safe way to get home, whether it’s a designated driver, a uber service, or a nearby place to crash for the night.
Friendsgiving is all about embracing the joy of the season, and these tips should help you plan a memorable and easy celebration. The key is to keep it simple, share the responsibilities, and focus on enjoying each other’s company. So, gather your friends, plan ahead, and let the good times roll – because there’s no better way to celebrate friendship and gratitude than with a heartwarming Friendsgiving feast!
