Everyone loves a party. There is something that just brings out the best and worst in us as a collective group when it comes to a party. The parties begin with Halloween and continue until the big bash New Year's Eve. The fun and excitement that comes from the actual event is sometimes overshadowed though by all of the preparation that a party takes, especially a Thanksgiving dinner.
Most parties are fueled by finger foods. This seldom occurs though with a Thanksgiving party.
People tend to expect a full Thanksgiving dinner complete with the traditional Thanksgiving decoration, the center piece. How does the average person survive the stress associated with undertaking such an enormous task? Easy. They plan things out carefully and do not wait until the last minute. I'm here to help you with the planning and the Thanksgiving dinner with a few hints and tips to make things a little bit easier.
The actual preparation for the Thanksgiving dinner should not be left until the day of the party. That is too much for anyone to undertake. Here is a quick and brief run down of some basics to get out of the way:
Day 4 before party: purchase all of the groceries that you will need for the big day. Clean all vegetables before putting them into the refrigerator. This saves time and is actually a tip for anyone to use anytime.
Day 3 before party: time for that thorough cleaning. Clear any precious breakables that might inadvertently be knocked over. This is especially important if small children will be at the get together. Gather the items you will need for your Thanksgiving centerpiece and any Thanksgiving decoration you might want to put up. Confirm the guest list so that you will know how much food to prepare.
Day 2 before party: Take and put up all of the decorations. Yes you will have to look at them for a day or two before everyone arrives but trust me, it will save time tomorrow.
Day 1 before party: cut, chop, boil, bake anything that can be prepared before the dinner. Pies, cakes, and desserts can be prepared. Many side dishes and main dishes can be prepared but not baked, this is the time to get as much done as possible. Send someone to the liquor store and stock the bar, trust me...you are going to need it.
Day of the party: Call everyone, tell them your sick and tired of always hosting the Thanksgiving dinner. Tell the family and friend to all bring a pizza and some booze and that you can supply the decorations. There...how easy was that. Oh, wait you actually want to go through with this. Well then, okay I tried to warn you. The day of the event, delegate chores. When someone asks if you need any help, do not be the hero. Take their help and point them in the right direction. Many hands make the load light.
More than any other planning or advice that can be given is to just remember that people are coming over to visit. If they are coming just to see a clean house, ornate decorations or a fabulous chef's creation, then perhaps next year the dinner can be at their house. Holidays are about visiting and remembering the good times, not about creating stress and panic. Happy partying.