As great as Thanksgiving is, it can be incredibly cumbersome and stressful—particularly for those hosting. Below, we’ve listed some tips that are designed to streamline the process so you can spend more time with family.
Timesaver Tip #1: Make it a Potluck
Because preparing a turkey, whipping up mashed potatoes, fixing some mac ‘n’ cheese, and making dessert is a lot to ask of one person. Rather than shoulder all the responsibilities yourself, ask your guests to bring a dish. You’ll save both time and money, making it easier for you to relax and spend more time with your family and friends.
Timesaver Tip #2: Buy Some Pre-Made Foods
Not every dish needs to be made from scratch. Prioritize your time by preparing your favorite home-cooked meals and leave the rest to the pros. You can find plenty of high-quality sides, drinks, and desserts at your local grocery store or bakery.
Timesaver Tip #3: Use a Slow Cooker
It’s an indisputable fact: there is only so much room in the oven and a limited number of burners. Free up some space by using a slow cooker (or two, or three). You can trust this handy device to keep everything warm until it’s ready to serve.
Timesaver Tip #4: Present It Buffet-Style
Passing dishes around the table can be cumbersome and confusing—not to mention space-consuming. By making everything self-serve, you’ll save space, relieve people of having to hold heavy dishes, prevent spills, and ensure your gorgeous centerpieces get all the attention they deserve.
Timesaver Tip #5: Set up a DIY Drink Station
Create a space specifically designated for drinks, complete with glasses, ice, and various beverages.
Timesaver Tip #6: Ask for Help
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t stress yourself out by feeling like you need to do everything yourself. If you need help, ask for it. That’s what friends and family are for. You might be surprised how willing people are to help with preparing food, setting the table, and cleaning up once they know what needs to be done.
Do you plan on using, or have you ever used, any of these timesaving tips? Or do you have any tips of your own? Tell us about your Thanksgiving experiences or plans in the comments below.