Ah Thanksgiving: A tender turkey in all the trimmings; succulent side dishes with countless carbs that you don’t even care to keep track of; and family from near and far coming together to create enough drama to hold you over until Christmas! What a holiday! Seriously we love it. Finally the Mariah Carey Christmas station on Pandora is appropriate again!
We love Thanksgiving so much, we are going to share some tips to make your Turkey Day top notch.
Recipes
(Click the name for full recipe)
Ashley's Favorites:
1. Buffalo Chicken Dip is my favorite dish to bring to any party. It is scrumptious, easy to make, easy to transport, and easy to heat up quickly and serve once you arrive.
Ashley’s extra tip: I like to add ranch dressing and then sprinkle cheddar cheese over the dip before baking. If you want to be extra ambitious, cut up some celery and cucumbers as dipping options along with your chips or pita bread.
2. Pumpkin Pie Bites with Pecan Glaze. I saw this on The Chew last year, made it for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it was a hit! Plus, SO EASY to make.
Gianna's Favorites:
3. Corn Soufflé. My absolute favorite dish for any occasion! It's perfect for Thanksgiving, and it is super easy and quick to make!
4. Banana Bread. A classic dessert that everyone will enjoy!
Gianna’s extra tip: Add some ice cream or whipped cream to make it even more delicious!
Fashion Guide
Gianna's Tips:
1. Make sure to wear something with a little stretch in it (you have to make room for that stuffing)! Stretch pants and big sweaters are always a good option, especially if you are at a casual party.
2. Stick with an earth tone palette to dress appropriately for the holiday season; good options are brown, cranberry, moss, navy, grey, and maroon.
3. Don’t be afraid to wear some pattern! Its always fun to mix in plaid, gingham, houndstooth, etc. into your wardrobe. Just make sure to keep the patterns in that Earth tone palette!
4. Statement jewelry this time of year is not only as appropriate as ever, but it is also considered festive! So add some glitz and glam to your look!
Etiquette Guide
Ashley's Tips:
1. BRING A DISH! If you are attending a Thanksgiving party, or even a Friendsgiving party, ask your host what you can bring. If and only if they tell you to make whatever you want, can you make whatever you want. One year our house had what seemed like 700 pies and 3 appetizers. It is A LOT of work to host this holiday, so being a good guest goes a long way.
2. Bring your host a little something. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but a thoughtful candle or bottle of wine just for her really says, “Thank you for having me,” and shows your appreciation.
3. Do not assume anything…especially if you are not in your own home with your immediate family. Different families have different traditions, and if you are not under your roof, you have to go with the flow. In other words, do not take it upon yourself to carve the turkey and do not take your dish to the couch to watch the game if no one else is!
4. Help out! Even though Turkey makes you tired (or the fact that you ate your body weight in food has made you too full to move), help the host clear the table, do the dishes, or set up for dessert. This will result in being well liked, appreciated, and invited back!