With Thanksgiving just a few days away, it’s time to make your plans. Friendsgiving—the term adopted to describe a Thanksgiving spent with loved ones beyond family—is a wonderful opportunity to gather and create cherished memories. Hosting a memorable Friendsgiving can be simple, fun, and rewarding, and it boils down to three essential elements.
Choosing the Best Space
The first step in planning the perfect Friendsgiving is selecting the ideal location for your event. The space you choose plays a crucial role in setting the atmosphere. Hosting Friendsgiving at your home is a fantastic option, creating a cozy and welcoming environment where your guests can feel relaxed and at ease. Not only is this choice budget-friendly, but it also allows you to set up and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Alternatively, if you're looking to host a larger and more lively gathering, consider renting a spacious venue. Orlando offers many fantastic options for rental spaces, including private restaurant rooms, lounges, and various small event spaces.
For instance, the Second Harvest Food Bank, recognized as the best bargain venue, along with venues like Bridlewood Ranch and the Anastassia Ballroom, have received accolades from Orlando City Magazine for their exceptional value.
Another exciting option to consider is an outdoor gathering. Whether in a public park, your own backyard, or an outdoor venue, this non-traditional approach to Friendsgiving is sure to leave a lasting impression, especially with the pleasant weather typical in Orlando.
Crafting a Menu
The key to planning an unforgettable Friendsgiving lies in crafting a menu that features a hearty entrée, irresistible side dishes and a delectable dessert that will delight your guests. While preparing a full menu may seem time-consuming, there’s a simpler way to create an impressive spread while still having the energy to enjoy your event.
Consider utilizing the services of Plate Above Catering, where a team of award-winning chefs can prepare exquisite holiday meals using fresh ingredients. Their Family Dinners To Go allow you to enjoy gourmet meals without the hassle of cooking. Each meal is fully cooked, chilled, and accompanied by simple reheating instructions, ensuring that your meal is fresh and ready when you are.
Don’t forget to select delicious beverages to complement your Friendsgiving menu and keep your guests refreshed throughout the evening. For a fantastic wine pairing with turkey, consider a full-bodied Chardonnay or a Pinot Noir. If you're looking for comforting drink options, classic black tea or chai can enhance the Thanksgiving flavors beautifully. Additionally, get creative with cocktails and mocktails to add a unique twist to your beverage offerings.
Setting the Atmosphere
Lastly, creating the right atmosphere is essential for a memorable Friendsgiving. Enhance your gathering with vibrant decor, good music, and, of course, the joy and laughter that comes from entertaining games. These final touches will ensure your Friendsgiving becomes a holiday to remember.
To achieve a cohesive look, pick a theme and let it guide your decor choices. Pinterest serves as a great source of inspiration for themes and decor pieces. Many people lean towards an autumn theme, featuring earthy colors and cozy vibes, but don’t hesitate to personalize the atmosphere to reflect your personality and style.
Your chosen theme can also help shape your music playlist. Platforms like YouTube and Spotify offer various Thanksgiving and Fall playlists, which you can play at your event or use as inspiration to curate your own playlist.
When it comes to entertainment, consider the types of games you want to host. Classic games like Pictionary, Charades, and 20 Questions are always crowd-pleasers. Alternatively, for a fun twist, consider incorporating multiplayer video games or karaoke, which are great options for keeping guests engaged and creating lasting memories.
Wrapping Up
With a bit of planning and creativity, you can host a Friendsgiving that your loved ones will cherish and remember for years to come. From selecting the perfect setting to crafting a delicious menu and creating the right atmosphere, every detail contributes to a holiday gathering filled with warmth and joy. The team at Plate Above Catering wishes you a Happy Friendsgiving, unforgettable memories, and a beautiful upcoming holiday season!
About Plate Above Catering
Plate Above is an expert catering service Orlando with a mission to provide memorable experiences through delicious food.
From weddings to corporate events and parties to intimate anniversaries to community-wide gatherings, Plate Above offers customizable and innovative offerings.
Led by award-winning Chef Jill Holland, Plate Above’s from-scratch cuisine and best-in-class service create an unforgettable taste experience that is a favorite among clients.