Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you’re hosting, now’s the perfect time to get your home ready for the big day. With friends and family coming over, the last thing you want is to feel stressed about your space. But don’t worry! We’ve put together an 8-step guide that’ll have your home holiday-ready, so you can focus on enjoying the day (and the food!).
1. Declutter and Clean – Start Fresh!
First things first, clear the clutter! Focus on the main areas your guests will see—living room, kitchen, dining room, and bathrooms. A good clean-up will not only make your home look more welcoming but will also give you a sense of calm as you prep for the holiday.
Pro Tip: Make sure your entryway is spotless—it’s the first thing guests will see when they arrive, so make it count!
2. Organize Your Kitchen – Command Central
The kitchen is where the magic happens on Thanksgiving Day! Make sure you’re ready by cleaning the countertops, clearing space in the fridge, and organizing your pantry. Ensure you’ve got all the tools and cookware you need, from turkey basters to serving dishes. You don’t want to scramble for a spatula mid-meal!
Bonus: Set up a beverage or snack station in another room so guests can help themselves without getting underfoot while you’re busy cooking.
3. Spruce Up the Guest Bedrooms – Comfort is Key
If you’ve got guests staying over, you’ll want the guest room to feel like a cozy retreat. Fresh linens, extra pillows, and clean towels are a must, but don’t stop there. Add little touches like a basket of toiletries or a welcome note to make your guests feel truly pampered.
Pro Tip: A quick spray of linen mist or adding a small plant can make the room feel extra inviting!
4. Set the Table Early – Showcase Your Style
The dining table is the heart of Thanksgiving, so why not make it shine? Set it early with your best tableware and a thoughtful centerpiece. You can go classic with fall colors or try a modern twist—whatever suits your style! And don’t forget the candles for that warm, cozy glow.
Tip: Use place cards for a personal touch—and to avoid the awkward “where do I sit?” moment!
5. Create a Cozy Vibe – Set the Mood
Ambiance is everything! Dim the lights, light some seasonal-scented candles, and drape cozy throw blankets over your chairs and couches. If you have a fireplace, get it roaring for that ultimate fall feeling. Don’t forget to put together a relaxing playlist with soft tunes to play in the background—it’ll help set a calm and inviting tone for the day.
Pro Tip: Fall-scented candles (think cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or vanilla) are a great way to fill the room with seasonal cheer.
6. Freshen Up Outdoor Spaces – Bring on the Fall Charm
Even if the weather’s chilly, your guests might want to step outside for some fresh air. Tidy up your yard, sweep the porch, and dust off your outdoor furniture. Adding a few pumpkins, fall wreaths, or string lights will give your outdoor area a festive look that carries the holiday vibe from inside out.
Bonus: If you have an outdoor fire pit, now’s the perfect time to make it cozy with blankets and extra seating for post-dinner conversations!
7. Stock Up on the Essentials – Be Prepared!
You don’t want to run out of essentials in the middle of hosting. Stock up on paper towels, toilet paper, dish soap, and trash bags to avoid last-minute dashes to the store. Double-check your supply of napkins and cutlery too—you can never have too many on Thanksgiving!
Tip: Keep an emergency stash of extra wine glasses, serving utensils, and storage containers for leftovers on hand.
8. Plan for Post-Dinner Fun – Keep the Energy Going
The fun doesn’t have to end after dinner! Prepare some light entertainment like board games, a cozy movie night, or even a casual post-dinner walk. Having options ready will keep the vibe going and give everyone something to look forward to after the feast.
Pro Tip: A "Thankful Jar" where guests write something they're grateful for can be a heartwarming addition to the festivities, sparking meaningful conversations.
Building Memories Together
At HBH Realty, we believe a home is more than just a place—it’s where cherished memories are made. By following this 8-step guide, your home will be holiday-ready, welcoming, and cozy for your guests this Thanksgiving. After all, it’s the shared moments with loved ones that make a house truly feel like home. Let’s make this Thanksgiving your best one yet!
