The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Buffalo chapter.
- Gather your group of friends and pick a date that works for all of you. This can actually be really difficult considering everyone’s busy lives, so consider it a crucial first step. This year’s actual Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, Nov. 24, so plan accordingly. With this, choose a time that works on that date. I recommend a solid 6 or 7 p.m. for dinner, but it’s all personal preference.
- Once a date is sorted, finding a host is important. Whoever is willing to host will carry one of the biggest weights with the set up and clean up, so ensure this is an endeavor they really want and make sure to help! If you are hosting, prepare for what is to come.
- Decorations! Autumnal decorations are so important for setting the holiday mood (and making it Instagram-able of course). Consider things like candles, a banner, faux foliage and even make a ring light for picture-taking. Start buying these things early enough to prevent any last-minute stress.
- Once a set list of people is made, create some form of a shared document to decide what food item each person will be bringing. Generally, potluck style is much easier, and everybody is able to contribute this way. I prefer using the Notes app or a Google Doc so that it is editable by everyone. Make sure there are foods in each food category: appetizer, main meal, dessert and drinks. Don’t forget silverware!
DAY OF:
All the critical thinking should be done at this point. Help set up decorations, wait for everyone to arrive, eat delicious food, take pictures, and most importantly, remember to be grateful for all the people in the room. Having a Friendsgiving is a blessing, and friends deserve to feel loved and appreciated all the time, but especially at this time of year. Have fun!