Tips for the First-Time Thanksgiving Host

 The thought of hosting your first Thanksgiving dinner can be overwhelming, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. Start your planning early and use these helpful tips that will keep you calm and organized as you prepare to host your first Thanksgiving dinner. 
  
 Helpful tips for the first time Thanksgiving host: 
  
  •  Start early. As soon as you know that you’ll be hosting Thanksgiving dinner, make a list of everything you need to do to prepare for the day. Then, put together a calendar that plots out each task so you know exactly what you have to do and when.
     
    Send online invitations. One of the first things you’ll need to do is send invitations so you know how many people will be coming to dinner. Turn to Punchbowl.com for free online invitations where you can choose from a beautiful collection of festive designs. Include important information such as the date, time, and location. 


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  •  Order your turkey. It seems obvious, but remember to order your turkey in advance from a meat market or grocery store with a good reputation. You want to be confident that the turkey you pick up the day before Thanksgiving is the correct size you need and of the best quality. 
      
  •  Try a potluck. From the turkey and gravy to decorations and place settings, you have a lot on your plate as the host of Thanksgiving dinner. Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to contribute. You can set up a Potluck when you send your free online invitation and indicate that you would like guests to bring a few appetizers and desserts (or side dishes, beverages, it’s up to you!) Guests can write-in what they’d like to bring so you can plan accordingly and make up for any else you might need. 
      
  •  Don’t forget to decorate. Turn to sites like Pinterest or party planning sites to look for festive fall decoration ideas. You might choose to purchase some items or you can find some time with the kids to create DIY Thanksgiving decorations that will be a fun talking point during dinners. Popular decorations include turkeys, fall leaves, cornucopias, barns, cornstalks, and more! 
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