How to Host Your First Thanksgiving

While we know it sounds like a lot, the reality is that there are tons of ways to make your life easier–and, yes, even enjoyable–when you’re hosting the famous autumnal feast. We’ve done it countless times, and we’d like to say we’ve perfected it, so read on for our comprehensive guide, beginning two weeks out, and you’ll be all set.

Step 1: Pre-order your turkey!
Regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences, you’ll want to secure your turkey as well in advance as possible. It’s the visual centerpiece of the meal, and, unsurprisingly, they can become scarce as the holiday approaches. It’s one of those easy things you can do to reduce stress down the road.

Step 2: Confirm with guests
Thanksgiving attendee planning tends to happen a couple months before the big day, so this preparatory checklist assumes you’ve covered off on the initial invites. Two weeks out, though, it’s best to confirm with those you’ve invited that they’re still all set to come. And, at this point, it doesn’t hurt to check in with friends or loved ones you think might not have plans, to see if they’re interested in joining you (provided you have room, of course).

Step 3: Gauge dietary restrictions
Dietary restrictions are par for the course these days, and it’s always best to be prepared. Lucky for you, we’ve got a full guide to Thanksgiving dietary restrictions, so you can stay prepared for the moment your bread-loving friend tells you they’ve forgone gluten for the season.

Step 1: Plan the menu
This one’s easy: we’ve done it for you! Here’s our go-to Thanksgiving menu, which includes vegan-friendly sides and loads of gluten-free options, so everyone heads home full and happy.

Step 2: List out everything you need
Using the menu, we’ve provided above, write a list of every single item you’ll need to make the meal, either in your notes app on your phone or on a physical piece of paper. Put a checkbox next to each item and then browse your pantry to check and see what’s already accounted for.

Step 3: Purchase dry ingredients
From there, separate the list by recipe, and into “dry” and “perishable” ingredients. Head to the shop for anything non-perishable, and label it with a colored sticky note that corresponds to the specific recipe. This sets you up for success, and a much less stressful shop, come next week!

Step 4: Plan the tablescape
Or should we say: let us plan your tablescape for you! Here’s our helpful guide to perfecting your Thanksgiving dinner tablescape.

Step 5: Allocate some recipes
Don’t be a hero! You only have so much oven space, so if someone asks if they can bring something, which they will, ask for help! This could mean the difference between spending the day of sweating in your kitchen as you try to finish cooking three sides at once and only needing to focus on one.

Step 1: Purchase your perishables
Purchase your perishables, and label them by recipe, using the same system you did for your dry ingredients. By now, you should have every recipe, divided by its labeled ingredients.

Step 2: Create a playlist
A small thing, but something we always like to tackle ahead of time. Create a playlist so you’re not rushing to do so when the time comes.

Step 3: Brine the turkey
If you’re making our dry-brined turkey, this is your time to create the dry brine and refrigerate (for up to 48 hours)!

Step 4: Do some advance cooking
A few things that are more than fine heated up, or refrigerated? Stuffing and pumpkin pie. Don’t be shy about making both in advance, if you feel like you’ll be stressed out the day of.

Step 5: Set the table!
It’s one of those little things that’ll both reduce stress and get you excited.

Step 1: Do something for yourself!
Boundaries are crucial during the holidays, and Thanksgiving–while fun–can also be a stressful day. Be sure to spend some time with yourself–whether that’s a quick meditation or an early-morning run–before the madness begins.

Step 2: Start early!
Once you’ve completed a little bit of self-care, you’ll want to get started on what’s left. With all of your ingredients prepped and organized (and hopefully a bit of help from a few of your guests, you’ll be all set up for success).

Step 3: Enjoy! Happy Thanksgiving.