All Things Friendsgiving
The month of November means that Thanksgiving and Christmas are upon us. This time has always been one that is so special to me. There is truly something comforting about enjoying a delicious meal and the company of those we love. I hope that this post inspires you for your upcoming holiday gatherings! Keep reading for my 8 hostess tips, as well as the menu and recipes from this event!
HOSTING TIPS
Tip 1 : Try out tying your napkins in a knot to create space for a special place setting! This is such an easy technique and really adds something special to your place settings.
Tip 2 : To elevate your table, look into renting some fun, gold flatware! You can typically rent these for less than $1 each. For my event, I rented from Aztec Rentals and paid under $20!
Tip 3 : Use craft paper to line the counter space where you will be setting up your food. This makes for an easy clean up, and allows for you to label each dish in a cute way!
Tip 4 : Add flowers to your table scape. It truly adds that special touch, and makes your guest feel like they are at such a special event! It is also a great way to support local businesses! Rachel with Rose and Rae Design, did an absolutely amazing job. If you are in the Houston area, check her out on Instagram @roseandraedesign!
Tip 5 : Scatter candles throughout your table scape. This creates that dreamy dinner glow!
Tip 6 : Look into purchasing something custom for your guests to use and take home. This year, I partnered with Rubi & Lib to add in custom drink cups. This was such a special, custom touch that everyone loved!
Tip 7 : Create a drink station and feature a signature cocktail! Start by finding an elongated wood board and use that as the base. Next, use glass pitchers for the cocktail and style those on top of the wood board. Add fun cups and cocktail napkins, along with a trough for beers / soda / water / etc!
Tip 8 : Be present. Hosting can be tough, and stressful. You want to create a beautiful environment and meal for all of your guests, I get it… but, it is most important to be present. Plan in advance, so that once your guests arrive, you are able to talk with them and enjoy the company!
RECIPE SOURCES:
Four Cheese Mac & Cheese | Creamed Corn | Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus | Sausage & Sage Stuffing | Sweet Potato Casserole Classic Apple Pie | Classic Cherry Pie
Let’s talk appetizers! Crostini is one of the easiest things to make, and will really impress your guests. This year, I did two options. The first had pepper jelly and goat cheese. To start, simply slice a loaf of french bread, and toast on broil for 2-3 minutes. Then spread a layer of goat cheese, or cream cheese and top with your favorite pepper jelly. For the second option, I cooked one piece of steak and then sliced thin. I topped the bread with a layer of goat cheese, one slice of steak, and a small dollop of pesto. Easy peasy!
Other options I love are :
Brie, Apple and Fig Jam | Salami and Pesto | Spinach & Artichoke Dip | Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon | Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil | Goat Cheese and Raspberry Preserves
In addition to the crostini, I threw together a beautiful charcuterie board. Use your favorite meats and cheeses, nuts, salty snacks like olives / pickles, honey or jam, fresh fruit or veggies, and a mix of crackers and bread.
The amazing thing about some of the recipes that I used for this meal, is that some of them can be prepped the day before to save time and reduce stress on the day of! Also, two of them use a crockpot… helloooo easy!
Lastly, serve up some killer pies with vanilla ice cream! You can find my cherry pie recipe here! I hope this post has inspired your menu and table setting! Happy hosting, my friends!
