Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays! I love spending time with family, slowing down from our busy day-to-day, and filling our house with good food and even better company. We typically host, which means things can get a little chaotic — especially since I’m usually the one in the kitchen (with a few little helpers, of course).
Even though I consider myself a fairly seasoned hostess at this point, Thanksgiving always feels like a whirlwind. Every year I try to plan ahead a bit more — and this checklist has made all the difference. A little prep now helps the day feel less hectic and a lot more joyful.
Here’s your reminder to order your turkey, check your pantry, and prep ahead. Below, I’m sharing how I get ready — from kitchen must-haves to colorful tablescape ideas and my favorite ways to stay organized all week long.
1. Two Weeks Before: Plan & Prep
The more you plan ahead, the more you can actually enjoy the day itself. Start by planning your menu — think through what dishes you really love and what can realistically fit in your oven and on your stove. You don’t need three kinds of potatoes or four different salads; simplicity is key.
Once your menu is set, make your shopping list. I divide mine into pantry items, fresh produce, and day-of groceries so I can spread out shopping trips. Don’t forget to order your turkey early (plan on about 1–1.5 pounds per person) and make sure you have a proper roasting pan I love this one!
This is also the time to take stock of your kitchen essentials — mixing bowls, cutting boards, baking sheets, and that elusive meat thermometer that always goes missing. I also love having a gravy separator and turkey baster on hand — little tools that make such a big difference come Thursday morning. Oh, and don’t forget to double-check pantry staples — foil, and parchment paper always seem to disappear faster than expected.
2. One Week Before: Tablescape & Groceries
A colorful table always feels joyful — especially at Thanksgiving. I love mixing prints, textures, and layers to make it feel collected, not coordinated. Start with a patterned tablecloth or runner, then add cloth napkins in a contrasting color, a few taper candles, and seasonal touches like mini pumpkins or a simple arrangement of fall blooms. Don’t be afraid of color — a little pattern play always makes the table feel more inviting.
If you’re missing anything, order early: linens, serving platters, napkin rings, or extra glassware. For larger gatherings, a quick rental delivery for extra flatware or chairs can save a lot of stress.
On the food side, this is when I stock up on all my shelf-stable groceries — canned pumpkin, chicken stock, wine, sparkling water, spices, and baking ingredients. It’s also the perfect moment to clean out the fridge, clear counter space, and set up a corner for non-perishables. Oh and don’t forget to pick up the champagne and wine.
3. The Week of Thanksgiving
Monday & Tuesday:
Head to the store for fresh produce, herbs, dairy, and anything perishable. Don’t forget the little things that always slip through the cracks — trash bags, paper towels, flowers, and ice.
Wednesday:
This is your prep day! Brine your turkey (a must for extra flavor), make your cranberry sauce and vinaigrette, and prep any sides you can assemble in advance. I love baking sweet potatoes or roasting vegetables early so I can just pop them in the oven Thursday morning.
Set your table if you can — or at least pull everything out so it’s ready to go. My kids love helping with this part. I’ll often make my flower arrangements Wednesday too; it’s one of my favorite rituals of the week and brings instant color to the house.
Thursday — Thanksgiving Day:
Start the morning slow. Make yourself a coffee, turn on the parade, and preheat the oven. I like to put the turkey in about three hours before we eat — it always takes longer than you think, and it needs time to rest. The general rule is 15 minutes per pound.
While the turkey cooks, prep your sides, tidy up, and — most importantly — take a few moments to enjoy the process. Pour a glass of wine, light a candle, and let the kitchen hum. Once the food’s ready, it’s all about gathering everyone around the table, cutting into the turkey, and soaking in the chaos and warmth that make the day so special.
4. A Few Extra Tips
- Create a plan that works for you. The more you organize in advance, the more present you’ll feel day-of.
- Keep the menu simple. You don’t need to cook everything you’ve ever pinned. Focus on what your family loves most.
- Don’t be afraid to rent. Plates, glassware, or tables — rental companies make it easy (and they handle the washing).
- Simplify the drinks. Stick to wine, bubbles, and one signature cocktail if you like.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff. Something will always go a little sideways — and that’s okay.
