The month of November is right around the corner, marking a season of many gathering events. Some start as early as October, but November has special meaning to me. November is the month we dedicate to count our blessings and where we remember how important it is to be grateful.  This month can sometimes bring a little shadow of sadness with the loss of a loved one or family member living far away…it can cause loneliness during this season of the year. Nevertheless, you can try a new tradition! I sure you have made amazing friends which you consider an extended part of our family. Invite them! And in November celebrate Friendsgiving!

 

 

Today I’ll be sharing how easy this type of gathering is and how stress-free it can be with some great findings from my favorite stores. Follow up these tips for an amazing Friendsgiving celebration.

Charge them with positivity

I love chargers! They add the final touch to any plate and can be mix and match with the rest of the dinnerware depending on the season or even the table style. This time around I found at William Sonoma a set of copper metal chargers and fell in love with their rustic style. On each of these, you can write on the border a special short message. But if you’re short in time, you can always write their names. Just make sure to use a chalk pen so it is easy to clean up.

 

Copper Charger – Williams Sonoma

Other simple touches you can add to your table are a napkin with some positive wordings like these I found at William Sonoma.

Napkins – Williams Sonoma

Rustic entertaining

Cheese boards have come a long way. Nowadays you can find them made of different materials including marble, stone and classic wood. William Sonoma has an incredible selection of boards for all styles and budgets.

Williams Sonoma Cheese Boards

I’ll be using a rustic type of wood to add a layer of texture into the mix. I have layer a simple selection of dried cured meats and cheeses.  I found an incredible variety of dried fruits and nuts at my local Trader Joe’s which I’m also adding to this board. This is really an easy way to impress your friends with your culinary skills and love.

 

From day to night

Whenever I’m hosting a gathering I like my guests to arrive just before the sun sets. This way I can set my table with some candles and lots of lanterns for that magical touch.

{Find photo of outdoor table}

On my last visit to Pottery Barn, as I was walking towards cashier I found mini lanterns. I was ecstatic with my discovery because I knew these would make an incredible statement as place settings and it is something my guests can take back home.  So never underestimate that last aisle when finishing up your shopping in any store. I’ve included a picture of the ones I bought to give away but you can search for others depending on color and theme for table.
Lantern – Pottery Barn

Fake with faux
Love real pumpkins but can’t get your hands on the tiny ones? No problem!

I found some cute faux options in a variety of colors. My favorite ones were little ones gold with white polka dots and white with gold. These pumpkins are the perfect addition to any Friendsgiving table but also they could work for any Thanksgiving gathering.

Pottery Barn -Faux Pumpkins

One last thing…..I was given this beautiful Thanksgiving Jar last year and you can probably create your own. I put it out and have my guest write on cards what they are thankful for. Then have them put their card in the jar and pass it around so everyone can pick one from the jar and read it while they eat. Great conversation starter to any gathering.

As you can see entertaining your friends and letting them know how important their presence is in your life, is an easy task. With these tips and some incredibly good food, your extended family will have a time they’ll always remember.

Happy Friendsgiving!

Blessings,

Sandra Maddox