Brandie Kajino,  The Home Office Organizer and author of the new food blog, Joy of the Kitchen, shares some timely tips on holiday meal planning. She’s organized and a foodie so you know her tips will be great!

Thanksgiving is coming up, can you smell the pumpkin pie? Everyone has a favorite holiday, and Thanksgiving is mine. What’s not to love about a holiday that’s all about family, friends, thankfulness, relaxing (after the dishes are done), hanging out in the kitchen all day and eating what you make? It’s also about the shared tradition and the stories that go along with it.

And don’t forget all the food preparation and dishes! So, how to enjoy this fabulous holiday and find some joy in your kitchen this year? One word…

Preparation. Here’s some tips on how you can make your holiday meal go a little more smoothly.

Get help. The Thanksgiving meal isn’t for wimps. It’s a big deal! There’s plenty of pressure, tradition and food to go around. However, it can be a lot of fun if you’re prepared. If this will be your first meal, girlfriend, call in reinforcements! There are a lot of dishes to make, which all need to be hot (or cold) at the right times. Call someone who has done it before to help out. If it’s not your first time, offer to help with someone else’s dinner (She’ll thank you for it!).

Order ahead. A few years ago I started ordering a fresh local bird, and I will NEVER go back. But, it needs to be ordered ahead of time, and picked up the week of Thanksgiving. Also, if you are thinking of ordering anything (like side dishes) for your meal, get it in asap.

Make a menu and a list. Know what you are going to make, and when you are going to make it, before the big day. Make your menu and if you’re up to it, do some math and figure out start + prep times. Post this list on the fridge and refer to it as you get closer, making sure you have all supplies ahead of time. (Some local kitchen shops and magazines have great lists, so take advantage of them!)

Prep ahead. Something you can cook ahead, like pies and cranberry sauce. You can also chop veggies, prepare bread for dressing, etc. Look at your menu and see what can be prepared ahead. You can even set the table the night before if you are feeling ambitiou

Enjoy! If you’re properly prepared and have a game plan, you’ll enjoy the holiday so much more. Take a few minutes and plot out what the day will look like, so you will feel a little better on T-Day. Then, wake up get moving and enjoy the day.

Cheers, and Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

About the Author

I’m an enthusiastic foodie + baker who finds joy in the kitchen. I love when a friend or family member widens their eyes, nods their head and utters “Mmmmm…”  When they enjoyed what I just created with my own hands, THAT brings me joy.

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