Entertaining Tips

Whether you’re preparing for a packed house or keeping it simple and cooking just for your family this year, SheKnows how to make Thanksgiving stress-free and enjoyable for you and your guests. Keep these entertaining tips in mind as you begin planning your Thanksgiving menu and activities.

PLAN AHEAD

The key to having a truly stress-free Thanksgiving is planning. Plan your menu well in advance. This gives you time to make a few adjustments as plans change. Next, create your shopping lists — one for each store you'll need to visit. Attach applicable coupons directly to the list, then plan your route keeping in mind when and where you'll be buying cold items.

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH SEATING?

If you are short on tables and chairs, a more casual dinner may be the best. Set up a buffet table and allow guests to serve themselves, then sit wherever they'd like.

CONSIDER CLEANUP

Though your table might look better with fine china, multiple forks and special dessert plates, remember the dishes! To make cleanup easier, consider paper plates and plastic utensils. Though they might not be pretty, disposables will save you a lot of hassle.

ARE KIDS IN ATTENDANCE?

If you have several young children at your home during the Thanksgiving holidays, set up a separate kids' table. For young toddlers, serve finger foods that are easy to eat. Offer crayons, coloring books and other toys to keep them busy, allowing the adults to relax.