Hosting a Stress-Free Friendsgiving Celebration!
Friendsgiving is a cherished tradition where friends come together to celebrate gratitude, friendship, and of course, delicious food. With over 15 years of event planning experience, we understand the value of creating memorable experiences, and we're here to provide you with expert tips on how to host a stress-free and enjoyable Friendsgiving event.
Preparation
Creating the Guest List
Crafting the perfect guest list is essential. Aim for a diverse group of friends who might not know each other well, as Friendsgiving is a fantastic opportunity to foster new connections and friendships.
Setting the Date
In order to host a successful Friendsgiving, you’ve gotta start off by choosing the right date. Consider the schedules of your friends and look for a date that works for most. If the primary date doesn't work for everyone, be flexible and have alternative dates in mind.
Sending Invitations
The way you invite your friends sets the tone for your event. You can opt for traditional paper invitations, e-invites, or popular online platforms like Evite or Facebook events. Make your invitations personal and inviting to set the right mood.
Decor and Ambiance
Early planning for decor is crucial. Create a cozy and festive atmosphere with table settings, centerpieces, and lighting. We’ve helped take a load off your mind by curating an Amazon Store Front HERE where you can find everything you could possibly want!
Delegating and Sharing Responsibilities
The Potluck Approach
One effective way to reduce the host's stress is by adopting a potluck-style Friendsgiving. This approach spreads the responsibility of the meal among guests and ensures a diverse and well-balanced feast. If you opt to go this route, it can be easier to utilize a shared system to track who is bringing what. It can be as simple as creating a basic spreadsheet that everyone can access, or using an App (we like Microsoft To Do).
Assigning Tasks
Remember that it's okay to ask for help. Your friends will likely appreciate being involved and contributing to the event's success. Delegate tasks to your guests, such as:
Setting the table
Preparing drinks
Assisting in the kitchen
Labeling and organizing food
Playing DJ or putting on a festive movie
Dishes dishes dishes
Trash duty
Hosting games, entertaining the group
Phone manager! Hosting an event can be challenging! Don’t be afraid to pass your phone off to someone else to help stay on top of calls & texts!
Meal Planning and Cooking
Organizing the Menu
When planning your menu, consider dietary restrictions and preferences. While traditional Thanksgiving dishes are always a hit, don't be afraid to get creative and include unique, personalized dishes.
The Day-of Cooking Schedule
To minimize stress on the day of Friendsgiving, create a cooking schedule that outlines what needs to be done when. Plan ahead and prepare as much as you can in the days leading up to the event. This will help you stay organized and relaxed on the big day.
Entertainment and Activities
Icebreakers and Games
Keep the atmosphere lively and fun with icebreakers and games. These can help guests get to know each other better, and the laughter they bring will create a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
Gratitude Ritual
Encourage a gratitude-sharing tradition where guests express what they're thankful for. This simple ritual can add depth and meaning to the event, reminding everyone of the true spirit of Thanksgiving.
You’ve got this!
Hosting a Friendsgiving doesn't have to be stressful. With careful planning, delegation, and a relaxed approach, you can create a memorable and enjoyable event that you and your friends will cherish for years to come.
If you'd like additional assistance or are considering professional event planning services for your Friendsgiving or any other event, don't hesitate to get in touch. We're here to help you create unforgettable experiences and stress-free gatherings.
We hope this guide helps you in hosting the perfect Friendsgiving event. May your celebration be filled with joy, gratitude, and delicious food!
~Till Death Do Us Party