A Friendsgiving to Remember
Thanksgiving is hands-down one of my favorite holidays of the year. This is partly because I’m obsessed with covering every surface in my house with fall decor, but mostly because it’s a celebration of all the things we’ve been incredibly blessed with. Not that I need a holiday to make sure I recognize this, but who doesn’t love to stuff their face while feeling especially grateful?
Planning, shopping, prepping, and hosting a party has always been something I love to do. Several years ago, my husband and I started the tradition of hosting a Friendsgiving meal with our closest friends. We had just moved into our new home in Hebron and I finally had the space to host like I’d always wanted. I like to think the idea of Friendsgiving originated from my favorite sitcom, Friends, where Monica cooks a feast each year for her friends who don’t have family to spend the holiday with. While this is not the reason for starting our tradition, it does feel good to celebrate the holiday of being Thankful with those who belong to what we call our chosen family.
We’ve all been through so much this year and maintaining relationships with friends during a worldwide pandemic hasn’t been easy. For a while we were scheduling weekly Zoom calls and sharing memories because making new ones was put on hold. It was definitely tough, but I’m so very thankful that small gatherings are acceptable once again and we will be able to host again this year.
Our Friendsgiving is a very casual affair. Everyone brings a dish and we set up a buffet-style spread before gathering around the table. The goal is that our guests’ time is spent relaxing, eating, and enjoying time with friends. This tradition has produced some of my favorite memories of entertaining in our home.
I’ve put together some ideas and tips to make hosting Friendsgiving easy for just about anyone.
The Invites
I love an adorable printed invitation to be admired on my fridge, however I’ve recently caught up with the rest of the world and began using social media to invite my guests. I’ve used Facebook Events in the past which makes it easy to see who has RSVP’d and to keep your guests updated on any party plans or changes.
Potluck style
I have each couple/friend sign up to bring a side dish. Macaroni and cheese, green beans, rolls, and corn are some of the more traditional suggestions. I believe there are several things that are a must-do for the host. The main dish is the primary responsibility of the host. In the past we’ve even asked our friends to select the main dish of turkey or a ham. I also recommend some type of appetizer for guests to munch on while they wait for later arriving guests.
Keep It Simple
No one, I mean absolutely no one wants to stand at their kitchen sink for hours cleaning up. We don’t want the distraction while our guests are present nor in the late hours of the evening after guests have departed. I make sure to use plastic plates, utensils, napkins, and cups. I scour Party City, Hobby Lobby, and other party supply stores for the most sophisticated looking plasticware. It is possible! I especially like to stick with navy napkins and gold touches on the plates. It brings warmth to the table and matches most fall decor.
Everyone Has a Seat
The thought of a single person having to stand and try to enjoy their food makes me feel like I’ve failed as the host. In order for my guests to feel included in this family style gathering, everyone has their own seat at the table, even if I have to borrow a card table and chairs from Mom.
Festive Beverages
Always keep wine and beer on hand for people who don’t enjoy the fancy drinks. I also have a pitcher of water with lemon and a variety of sodas for people who choose the non-alcoholic option. One of the things I enjoy preparing most are themed cocktails. They look pretty, taste yummy, and for the most part everyone enjoys them. Thanksgiving Punch and Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria are two of my favorites for this holiday. Both are quick, easy, with simple ingredients that won't have you running errands all over town.
Thanksgiving Punch:
3 Cups apple cider
3 Cups cranberry juice
1 Cup orange juice
I Cup fireball whiskey
½ Cup apricot brandy
3 Cups lemon-lime soda
Ice
Garnish Options *apple slices or cranberries
Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria:
2 Cups Apple Cider
750 mL bottle Riesling Wine
½ Cup Sparkling Water
¼ Cup Pomegranate Seeds for garnish
Ambiance is Key
When guests arrive they should be greeted by smells of food cooking and festive decor that creates the spirit of the season. I believe this can best be done with a plethora of pumpkins and garland, soft music, and lots of candles. The tablescape on the main dining table is what I enjoy creating the most. I include fresh flowers, garland to line the length of the table, candles, and pumpkins spread evenly throughout. If you choose to use flowers, look for greenery with touches of the fall colors.
Simplify Dessert
It’s a given. Many of the guests will gorge themselves on the main dishes to the degree they have no desire for a generous piece of pie. After hosting several times and attending parties where desserts became an afterthought, I’ve decided when it comes to desserts the best answer is, keep it simple. Too many options often lead to wonderful desserts, prepared with great care, left unsampled. I have observed that guests are more likely to sample small, bite size desserts. Pumpkin cheesecake bites and mini apple pies have repeatedly been a huge hit!
Music
It’s important to keep the volume low so conversation is not made difficult. No one wants to feel like they have to yell to be heard. Carefully select music you feel compliments the theme and environment you’re trying to create.
After Dinner Entertainment
After dinner entertainment is optional. Our friends like to gather in our living room, continue to enjoy their beverages, play games or just continue pleasurable conversation.
I believe doing these simple things like lighting candles, placing decorative pumpkins, and music in the background will help create a welcoming atmosphere for your Friendsgiving. If my guests seem to feel relaxed and are enjoying themselves, I have been a successful host.
I wish you the best of luck should you decide to host your own Friendsgiving this year, and who knows- you may be starting your own Friendsgiving tradition!
XO
Sarah
