Friendsgiving, a beloved tradition that combines friendship and gratitude, has become increasingly popular in recent years. It's a time to celebrate with your chosen family, sharing delicious food and creating lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned Friendsgiving host or a first-timer, this guide will help you throw a successful Friendsgiving that your friends will cherish for years to come.
Plan Ahead
The key to a successful Friendsgiving is preparation. Start planning at least a month in advance to ensure you have enough time to organize everything. Consider the following:
Choose a Date: Pick a date that works for everyone, ideally a week or two before or after Thanksgiving to avoid scheduling conflicts.
Guest List: Create a guest list and send out invitations early. Encourage your friends to RSVP so you can plan accordingly.
Menu: Decide whether you'll prepare the entire meal or opt for a potluck-style dinner where everyone brings a dish. A mix of both can also work well.
Theme or Decor: Decide on a theme or color scheme for your gathering. Decorations can set the tone and make the event feel special.
Delegate Responsibilities
Hosting a Friendsgiving doesn't mean you have to do everything on your own. Encourage your friends to contribute to the event by bringing dishes, drinks, or helping with setup and cleanup. This makes the occasion more inclusive and lessens your workload.
Plan the Menu
Food is the heart of Friendsgiving. To create a diverse and satisfying menu, coordinate with your friends to ensure a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to consider:
Traditional dishes: Roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Dietary options: Include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes to accommodate all your friends.
Drinks: Offer a selection of beverages, including wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options. We highly recommend serving our Non-Alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon with a Thanksgiving meal.
Desserts: Pumpkin pie, apple crisp, and pecan pie are popular choices.
Set the Ambiance
Creating the right atmosphere can enhance the experience. Consider the following:
Decorations: Use autumn-inspired decor, like pumpkins, leaves, and candles, to set a cozy, festive mood.
Music: Create a Friendsgiving playlist with a mix of classics and contemporary tunes.
Seating: Arrange seating to encourage conversations and group interactions.
Games and Activities: Plan some fun activities like board games or a trivia quiz to keep everyone engaged.
Give Thanks
Friendsgiving is about more than just the food; it's about celebrating the people you're thankful for. Take a moment to express your gratitude for your friends, sharing stories or memories that make your relationships special.
Capture the Moments
Ensure you have a camera or a designated photographer to capture the moments. These photos and memories will make great keepsakes for years to come.
Plan for Leftovers
It's likely that you'll have leftovers. Encourage your friends to bring containers so they can take some of the delicious food home with them. Alternatively, consider donating extra food to a local food bank or shelter.
Be Gracious and Flexible
Lastly, remember that not everything will go perfectly, and that's okay. Friendsgiving is about spending time together, so focus on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Be gracious and flexible, and your friends will appreciate your efforts regardless of any hiccups.
Friendsgiving is a wonderful opportunity to create cherished memories with your chosen family. By planning ahead, involving your friends, curating a delicious menu, setting the right ambiance, and giving thanks, you can throw a successful Friendsgiving that will leave everyone feeling grateful and appreciated. So, start planning today, and get ready to host a memorable Friendsgiving!