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Thanksgiving has a way of bringing people together in the sweetest way. The food, the conversations, the cozy feeling in the house. These simple tips to make your Thanksgiving special are easy to implement and can make the whole day feel even more relaxed and joyful. These are the little things I turn to when I want Thanksgiving to feel special without making anything complicated. You can pick and choose what fits your home and skip anything that does not feel right for you.

If you want more ideas to make your holiday feel calm and joyful, be sure to check out the rest of my Thanksgiving recipes and tips in the Thanksgiving Hub. It has everything in one place so you can plan your meal, stay organized, and enjoy the day.

1) Cook with Fresh Herbs

Add flavor and beauty to your dishes

Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage add instant Thanksgiving flavor. Toss a few sprigs on the turkey platter or sprinkle chopped herbs over mashed potatoes for a bright finish. You can grab the small packets at the grocery store or use herbs from your garden.

2) Cozy Background Music

Set the ambience for connection

Soft piano covers or instrumental playlists keep the energy calm and welcoming. We usually play music while cooking and mingling. Turn on the TV for the parade or football when it feels right. Let sound support the day, not dominate it.

3) Gentle fall scent

Add flavor and beauty to your dishes

The kitchen will do most of the work here. In other rooms, use a subtle fall candle, air freshener, or essential oil diffuser. Keep the scent soft so it does not compete with the food.

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4) Offer a special beverage

Serve festive Drinks for all Ages

A simple mocktail or sparkling drink makes the day feel festive right away. Set them out before dinner so guests have something fun to sip while chatting. You can link your favorites here.

Sparkling water is always an easy way to quickly elevate and sparkling cider is also wonderful. If you want more Thanksgiving beverage tips and mocktail recipes, check out my Thanksgiving Drinks post.

5) Use the plates that make life easier

Keep it simple

If you are hosting a larger group than your regular plate set can handle, it is completely fine to use paper plates. Look for compostable or biodegradable options if that matters to you, since there are some really sturdy and pretty ones available now. The goal is to make the day run smoothly and let you enjoy your guests instead of washing dishes for hours.

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Compostable round plates or oval plates
Decorative plates

6) Give the table a few thoughtful touches

Set a few small pieces of decor

Cute napkins, even paper ones, make the table feel cared for. Add a small centerpiece or a few fall pieces you already own. I sometimes wrap a string of white Christmas lights around the plants in my dining room, and it always feels a little magical.

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7) Create a simple holiday moment

Take a moment to give thanks or pray together

Every family is different. Maybe you pray together or share something you are grateful for. In our family we go around the table and each speak a few words of gratitude from the past year. It is one of my favorite traditions. Choose whatever feels natural for your group.

8) Serve coffee or tea with dessert

Set the ambience for connection

Coffee and tea are amazing beverages with Thanksgiving desserts. These add adds a calm, cozy pause at the end of the meal and makes the pies taste even better.

If you want an extra-special coffee treat, make my Pumpkin Spice Syrup in advance and treat your guests to delicious pumpkin spice lattes as a delicious beverage with dessert!

9) Make the kids’ table easy

Skip the Battles, Serve the Favorites

Offer nutritious kid-friendly options that the children will actually eat. When the kids are relaxed and happy, everyone is relaxed and happy. We usually serve mac & cheese and hot dogs, along with fruits and vegetables for the kiddos.

10) Prep for leftovers and cleanup

Have your Prep & Cleanup Items Ready

Have extra garbage bags, compost bags, tupperware, and ziploc baggies ready. If guests will take leftovers home, set aside a few containers ahead of time so it is simple at the end. Leftovers are one of my favorite parts of Thanksgiving, and you can link your ideas for using them here.

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I hope these ideas help your Thanksgiving feel warm, calm, and full of good moments. Even one or two small touches can make the day easier and more memorable. If you try any of these tips, I would love to hear how they worked for you. You can also save or pin this post to come back to as you get ready for the holiday.

And be sure to check out the rest of my Thanksgiving recipes and tips in the Thanksgiving Hub, where you’ll find time-tested tips to help you plan your meal, stay organized, and enjoy the holiday!