THE ULTIMATE HOSTING GUIDE
HOLIDAY GATHERINGS
THE ULTIMATE HOSTING GUIDE
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is no small task even if it’s a small gathering. We’ve learned a few things over the years at SaltBlock Hospitality and now we’re passing these nuggets of wisdom onto you. From seating plans and conversation starters to carving and serving tips, this guide will help you become the Hostess with the Mostess.
BEFOREHAND —
This goes without saying; tidy up the place and make sure the bathroom is sparkling clean and well-stocked. Plan which serving platters and vessels you’re going to use and put them aside. Make sure you have proper serving utensils and something to serve gravy in. If possible, set the table the day before. Anything you can do in advance will make the day of that much easier. Light some candles before guests arrive to create a warm ambiance, but only if they’re unscented! Nothing should compete with the smell of turkey roasting and stuffing baking.
TIMING —
Work backward from your service time to know when you need to put the turkey in the oven. Don’t forget to account for resting time! It should rest for about 45 minutes to reabsorb the juices. The ideal schedule allows for adequate time for prepping and cooking and a reasonable departure hour. We love a 4-8 pm dinner party. Plan on having cocktail hour from 4-5 pm, dinner from 5-7 pm, and guests leaving around 8 pm. Ask some close friends or good conversationalists to arrive first to help get the party started.
TABLESCAPE —
Nothing screams autumn like pumpkins and gourds, but go easy on them. Dried bouquets and eucalyptus make for a natural and elegant look. For a pop of color, go with red, purple, or blue jewel tones. Amber glassware adds a vintage touch and cloth napkins are a must!
SEATING PLAN —
A seating plan may sound formal, but when done well it can encourage lively conversation, prevent awkwardness or disagreements, spark new friendships, and accommodate guests. Split up married and established couples and place newly formed couples across from each other, rather than side by side. Consider putting newcomers next to a kind Aunt or a good talker. Seat a big ego next to a good listener. As for the host, you’re at the end of the table next to the hard-of-hearing or tricky cousin.
START PLANNING
Don’t stress YOUR holiday GATHERING
DRINKS —
A festive cocktail or a well-stocked bar will be much appreciated. Choose wines that compliment the meal. It doesn’t need to be expensive, but it should be thoughtfully selected. For non-drinkers, offer something more exciting than soda - like sparkling apple cider or fresh juice with seltzer. Coffee or tea with dessert is always a good idea!
CONVERSATION —
There’s no better time to express gratitude than on Thanksgiving! Go around the table and have each person say what they’re most thankful for this year. Try to orchestrate conversation that is inclusive and light-hearted: What’s something on your bucket list? Who is your favorite actor/actress? If you could live in another decade, which would you choose? To the best of your ability, avoid controversial topics and family drama; you can even lay some ground rules ahead of time. Inviting “buffers” or non-family members will help keep everyone on their best behavior.
KIDS —
Encourage kids to help prepare part of the meal. It will nurture their wild creativity and bestow a sense of pride when “their” dish is served. You can assign them a small task, like setting the table or filling water glasses, but remember holidays are hectic; give them plenty of space to play, go outside, or watch a movie.
CARVING —
Anyone can do the honors of carving the turkey! It’s no one person’s sacred responsibility. If this isn’t your forte, nominate whoever has the best knife skills.
TOASTS —
You might be off the hook for carving the turkey, but as the host, you should prepare something to say at the start of the meal. It doesn’t need to be long-winded. Just say something thoughtful about the food, family, and friends before you.
SERVING —
We’re all about family-style dining at SaltBlock. We love seeing platters and serving bowls getting passed around the table and everyone helping serve one another. It’s fun, lively, and conversational. Double up gravy boats and place wine and water at both ends of the table.
LEFTOVERS —
Everyone loves Thanksgiving leftovers. Turkey, cranberry, and stuffing panini, anyone? Start saving some containers now because they’re going to come in handy for sending your guests home with leftovers.