Thanksgiving Hosting Tips from Bird’s Party

Happy Wednesday, Candy Store fans! We know what you're asking yourself today: "How on earth is next week Thanksgiving already?" and we can commiserate. With so much Christmas excitement happening on Pinterest and at most retail stores, we've kind of forgotten about that fall feast. Before we all know it, it's going to be Christmas and then another year!

For now, though, let's just focus on Thanksgiving. If the thought of having to entertain all of your friends and family while they're at your house for Thanksgiving dinner makes you a little uneasy, don't worry. For one thing, there's bound to be drama when there's that many people in one place. Plus, Uncle Don has no filter after a few glasses of wine-you can't control that.

But you can control how you execute your dinner and host the gathering. Today, we're interviewing Bird from Bird's Party about some of her Thanksgiving tips. Party planners are some of the best kind of people to get hosting advice from, because they always know how to have a good time.

So, let's welcome Bird and talk Thanksgiving! Have any tips of your own? We'd love to hear them in the comment section below! Happy Turkey Day and make sure you remember your hosting ABC's…always a bowl of candy.

What are some tips for making Thanksgiving dinner less stressful?

Prep as much as you can in advance. Whether it's making stuffing or pies a couple of days before, stocking up on beverages or even setting the table the night before. Anything that can help you feel less stressed on the day is welcome! Make lists to help you stay organised and on top of a schedule.

Also, don't forget to ask for help! That can also be part of the fun. You don't need to do it all alone.
And if cooking is not your forte, why not have a pot luck dinner instead?!

When you picture a perfect Thanksgiving, what do you envision?

Happy, smiley people. Truly grateful for anything they have!

How do you keep the kids entertained when the adults are busy getting ready or talking amongst themselves?

Again, this can be part of your prepping. The idea is to make a Thanksgiving kids table or a play area inviting enough so the kids will want to sit put. For a little while at least…So crafts, activities, and practical but FUN decorations are a must! We have some cool and easy ideas in our Pinterest board.

Any decorating tips?

Bring the outside in – acorns, dried corn, chestnuts and pinecones can look fab when displayed inside glass vases, pumpkins can make incredible flower containers, dried leaves make fun garlands, wood logs can become funky candle holders, dried pulses (lentils, beans..) add color as vase fillers for candles and so on.

Natural elements all help to make the house more inviting at this time of year, and don't cost a thing. You can even make it a tradition of foraging for bits and pieces in your garden, a local park or woodlands, or even neighbor's yard (with their permission of course). Again more ideas here.

What's a good dish to bring when you're attending Thanksgiving at a family member or friend's house?

Pies, desserts or sides. Anything that's easily transportable and can be made in advance. Don't be afraid to ask the host/hostess if they need anything in particular or what the menu is, so you don't bring doubles.

What's the best way to set the mood for Thanksgiving dinner?

Music, warm fire, and stress-free hostessing. When hosting a party, sometimes it's easy to get immersed in the running of it all, and we forget to have fun.