A Host's Guide to Thanksgiving Day Prep

Hosting a holiday like Thanksgiving is no easy feat, but someone has to do it! If this is your year to baste the turkey and mash the potatoes, you’re probably already starting to feel the pressure. But the holidays are all about family and togetherness, so we’ve decided to share a few ways to make your Thanksgiving as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Cook early and freeze.

With many hosts working up until the day of Thanksgiving, it’s hard to find time to cook everything that a Thanksgiving Day feast requires. Ensure you have a relaxing Wednesday night by preparing food sporadically throughout the week and freezing it.

Ask others to pitch in.

There’s nothing wrong with asking your guests to contribute to the meal. When you send out invitations, ask guests to include a dish they’re going to bring along with their RSVP. Not only will this cut down on your baking time, but it will ensure that you don’t end up with four cheese platters and no stuffing.

Make space for guests.

If you live in a smaller home or apartment, consider renting chairs and tables. If you don’t like the “folding chair” look, you can easily cover them with slip covers. You can also utilize other rooms of the house, like the basement, for little ones to eat in.

Decorate your table the night before.

Whether you’re choosing to have a more formal dining experience or a casual, buffet-style one, your table will need some Thanksgiving pazaz. Autumn-inspired plates and cups, as well as napkins and placemats, will set the stage for a lovely evening.

Use eco-friendly cleaning products.

Chemical cleaners pose a major threat to you and your family’s health. Instead of using store-bought, chemical cleaners, create an all-purpose cleaner using 1/2 cup vinegar, 2 tbsp baking soda, and a splash of fresh lemon juice.  

Have your vents professionally cleaned.

Nothing ruins Thanksgiving dinner quite like a dust bunny rolling across the table. Ensure that everyone can breathe easy this year by having your vents cleaned of any dust, dirt, and debris.

If you live in Nassau County or Suffolk County, call (631) 940-8100 to get started with a free estimate. And from all of us here at GreenPro, have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!