3-4 Weeks Prior
Determine your dinner menu.
Create a list of everything you'll need to purchase and gather.
Send invitations.
If you need to place a special order for a smoked turkey or honey-baked ham, place it now.
Map out roles for event helpers and delegate by asking for their assistance before your dinner.
Start making holiday decorations for your home, if you desire.
2 Weeks Prior
Finalize your shopping list.
Make or purchase your centerpieceBuy candles, if needed.
Verify dinner guests and what they are bringing (if anything).
Place an order with your local bakery for rolls, pumpkin or other varieties of pies.
Check your equipment, confirm you have enough for all your guests.
1 Week Prior
Do your grocery shopping a week ahead of time to help avoid the rush.
Defrost your turkey (if it's frozen).
Call any guests who have not responded.
Make party costume or select outfit.
1 Day Prior
Clean your house.
Decorate your house with holiday decorations.
Settle on a seating arrangement and make place cards.
Make and refrigerate any dishes that you can.
Morning of Dinner
Eat breakfast.
Plan out and coordinate timing of dinner items so all are completed at the same time.
Be sure to put the turkey in the oven early.
Set the table.
Dress in party outfit.
When Dinner Begins
Greet guests and invite them into your home.
Lay out the food and beverages.
Light candles.

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