Getting Ready for Thanksgiving: A Checklist

Thanksgiving will be here before we know it and instead of stressing and hating all the planning that does into the holiday, we’re here to settle your senses and help you prepare. With this simple checklist you’ll be able to enjoy every minute of the day with your family and friends. So, sit back, relax, take notes and let us guide you through the “getting ready for Thanksgiving.”

1. Who’s coming?

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First things first, you must get a head count. Do this as early as possible so you can start planning the food preparation. A lot goes into a Thanksgiving meal so make sure you get early RSVPs.

2. What’s on the menu?

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Start planning your menu in early November. Will you have sweet potato casserole this year or just lot of rich and buttered mashed potatoes? Will you have pecan or pumpkin pie? Know what you’re having early in the month before you even make the shopping list.

3. How much do we need?

Once you’ve figured out the company and the menu, start figuring out the amounts of food you’ll need. This means everything from how many rolls to how many pounds of potatoes you’ll need to make a giant pot of mash.

4. Where will everyone sit?

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It’s time to figure out the seating arrangements. Do you have a big enough table or will you need to grab some extra folding seats and do a bit of fung shui in the dining room?

5. What’s the house going to look like?

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Do you need an extra wreath on the door or something new to spruce up the mantle? Make sure your decor is just so before any cleaning needs to be done.

6. What’s the table going to look like?

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Think about the tablescape and what you want each of the place setting to look like. Create a vision and start shopping for what you need.

7. Do we need any landscaping or last minute housework done?

If you need some new mulch in the front plots or the the carpets cleaned, do it sooner rather than later. The easy cleaning should be done closer to the holiday.

8. When should I go shopping?

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Once you make a list of everything you’ll need start shopping for the dry ingredients all month long, picking up items here and there when you can. As far as the fresh ingredients, the later the better of course. And, when it comes to the turkey, make sure you buy it when you see one big enough and then make sure you give it enough time to thaw!

9. When should I clean the house?

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Dust and sweep the morning before everyone arrives, this way every nook and cranny is fresh and ready to be entertained. But the major cleaning, including the guest bathroom and kitchen should be done 1-2 days before the holiday rolls around.

10. Should I ask anyone to bring anything?

Sure, this is totally up to you! Make sure you talk about those arrangements enough time in advance that everyone knows if they’re bringing a dessert or a salad, or even the drinks! But, don’t have them bring any of the main courses, remember they’re your guests!