How to host the ultimate stress-free Friendsgiving dinner party (20+ brilliant ideas)

This post is all about putting together an easy and super stress free friendsgiving dinner party.

Thanksgiving is always hands down the most stressful family holiday and quite honestly the whole thing has always given me anxiety. But having a friendsgiving party has always softened the stress of the big holiday. So, today we’re going to talk about hosting your own

Ah, Friendsgiving - that wonderful prelude to the holiday season, where friends become family, laughter fills the air, and gratitude is the star of the show.

Related Reading: 21 Easy & Crowd-pleasing Friendsgiving food ideas

What is a Friendsgiving party?

A Friendsgiving party is a gathering between close friends that mimics Thanksgiving. It usually has a lavishly set table and the dishes are quite often the traditional Thanksgiving ones. The idea of the event is to celebrate and give thanks for your friendship.

Hosting the ultimate Friendsgiving party is an art, a delightful blend of creativity, warmth, and a dash of culinary magic. If you're ready to create unforgettable memories with your chosen family, here's a step-by-step guide to help you host the most epic and stress-free Friendsgiving gathering.

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1. Select the date, time and location.

Begin planning well in advance. Decide on the date, time, and location of your Friendsgiving celebration. Make sure to consult with your friends to ensure the chosen date works for everyone. I like to have Friendsgiving about a week before the actual Thanksgiving. Most of my friends are usually home around that time, making it much easier for everyone to attend.

2. Guest List and Invitations.

The last major decision to make is who you would like to include on the guestlist for Friendsgiving.

Depending on the space and experience, the guest list could be extensive, or you could only have your few closest friends. Either way, make sure you decide this as early as possible, it is crucial to know your party size and who is coming for the planning and food preparation.

HOT TIP: You could also encourage your guests to bring a dish or drink to share.

There are many different ways to invite your friends to your Friendsgiving party: 

• Create physical invitations or

• Create e-vites and send them via email or snail mail if you have addresses for all your friends.

• There are so many online shops to create and purchase cute and cheap party invitations that would ultimately elevate your dinner party!

• Or, if you want your Friendsgiving to be more relaxed, you can always send your friends informal text messages, which works just as well. ( I like to create an invite image on Canva and then send that to my guests )

3. Plan The Feast.

holiday grazing table

Friendsgiving is really all about the food. Decide if you'll be the sole chef or if it's going to be a potluck-style dinner where each guest brings a dish. Classic Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie are must-haves and don't forget to accommodate dietary preferences and allergies.

When your friends RSVP to the party, ask them to contribute to the spread (think potluck) by cooking something on your list or bringing something they may have every year on Thanksgiving that is unique to their family's celebration. This dinner is such a fun time to see what other people do on Thanksgiving and get new Friendsgiving food ideas!

Make sure to note what everybody is planning on bringing so you end up with about one of everything and each food is covered.

HOT TIP: To avoid having to do the dishes and clean up a huge mess, opt for a quality dinnerware set. This gold and white set is perfect for any Friendsgiving decor.

4. Signature Cocktails.

image source

Create a signature Friendsgiving cocktail or mocktail to kick off the festivities. This adds a unique touch to your celebration and gets the conversation flowing.

A few friendsgiving cocktail ideas:

🤎 Apple Cider Mimosas

🤎 Fall Harvest Skinny Sangria

🤎 Thanksgiving punch mocktail

Don’t forget to have cocktail napkins with cute & clever messages.

Related Reading: 21 Easy & Crowd-pleasing Friendsgiving food ideas

5. Decorate with A GRATITUDE theme in mind.

Sunday Morning

Why not try a friendsgiving banner?

Because it’s Fall, you should have already infused your home with a cozy, autumnal atmosphere. Here are 14 gorgeous Fall dining table centerpeice decorating ideas.

Embrace warm colors, rustic tableware, and plenty of candles. Consider adding a gratitude wall or table with a book on it where guests can write down what they're thankful for.

A few decorating ideas to consider for your Friendsgiving:  

• A statement centerpiece

• table settings with name cards for your guests 

• a photoshoot backdrop, this rose gold fringe curtain makes for stunning photos

• fun banners

• balloons

You might also want to add in some custom decor moments to let each guest know how grateful you are for them.

TABLE SETTINGS

Get creative with table settings! You might enjoy making personalized name cards for your friends and placing them where they should sit at the table.These pumpkin place card holders are absolutely adorable.

I like to roll up napkins and get napkin rings for the holiday (even if you just use plastic dinnerware, napkin rings will make your dinner look very professional).

To make it look even more professional and put together, be sure to set out glasses, plates, utensils, making the table look beautiful and welcoming.

zoe with love

HOT TIP: Create a super easy and affordable tablescape with space to write what your guests are grateful for.

6. Games and Activities.

Laughter is the best medicine for anyone. Especially anyone who lives a pretty full and hectic life. It is so nice to be playful and fun with friends and family.

Incorporate fun games and activities to keep your guests entertained. Consider a gratitude circle where everyone shares what they're thankful for, or go for classic board games or trivia.

Here are 5 really fun Friendsgiving game ideas:

🤎 The Voting Game: it’s a fun game that will make you get to know your friends even better and deeper than before. 

In each round, you vote anonymously for the person that you think the question describes the best, then tally the votes you find out the truth about your friends!

🤎 These cards will get you drunk: every participant receives cards that include random prompts that somehow end in someone drinking. 

🤎 Guesstures: You just need to act out some of the words they give, and your partners need to guess it! 

This will get everyone laughing, and if you guys play it after getting a bit tipsy, it gets even funnier.

🤎 Cards Against Humanity: hands down my absolute favorite social game to play with your friends, and this is definitely one of the most popular Friendsgiving games. 

To play the game, players take turns reading black cards with fill-in-the-blank prompts, and everyone else submits their funniest white card to complete the sentence! Funniest answer wins.

🤎 Friendsgiving: I’ve never played it but this game looks like a really perfect fit for a party like this.

7. Music and Entertainment.

A little background music will always elevate the ambiance of any party. In order to have a stress-free party, plan your music in advance.

You may want to consider your guests and their interests. I always like to ask friends to send me songs they are currently listening to so I can be sure to include everyones favorite songs.

Here are a few playlists I have saved for get togethers:

🤎 Beach at Sunset.

🤎 Cozy thanksgiving playlist

HOT TIP: If you don’t have a sound system in your set up, this JbL 5 portable speaker is my go-to for any party. I like it because anyone can set up their playlists and it fills the room without overpowering.

8. Capture the Memories.

Encourage your guests to take photos and share them in a group text. You can also designate a photographer, have an instant camera with film sitting on the table or set up a photo booth wall.

As the evening draws to a close, gather your friends for a moment of gratitude. Each person can share something they're thankful for, and you can lead a toast to friendship.

Buy on Amazon

9. The Farewell.

Send your guests off with a little token of your appreciation, like a mini pumpkin pie, a heartfelt note, or a small favor that commemorates the evening.

Remember, Friendsgiving is about sharing not only in the moment but also in the aftermath. These ziploc containers make it so easy for you to give your guests to take home leftovers. It's part of the tradition!

Hosting the ultimate Friendsgiving party is all about celebrating the bond you share with your friends and creating cherished memories. It's a time to savor the love, laughter, and the joy of being surrounded by the people who make your life richer.

So, set the table, break the bread, and toast to another wonderful year of friendship. Friendsgiving is a reminder that, no matter the challenges, we always have reasons to give thanks.

FRIENDSGIVING INSPO:

01 | Give Thanks Banner

give thanks wall decor

02 | Maple Leaf Garland

thanksgiving fall decorating

03 | thankful for you napkin wraps

04 | Letter board sign

image via

05 | Friendsgiving balloon letters photo backdrop

Eryn Whalen

While you’re at it, why not add cute Thanksgiving photo props for the photo wall?

06 | Create a super cute theme

Girlfriends & Gratitude

BYOB - Bring Your Own Board

These are two really cute ideas. Imaging Girlfriends and Gratitude or BYOB - bring your own charcuterie board.

07 | Friendsgiving bar cart

A well-styled bar cart instantly elevates your Friendsgiving party and keeps the drinks flowing without you running back and forth to the kitchen. Start by choosing a festive focal point—like a vase of seasonal flowers, a bowl of fresh cranberries, or a mini pumpkin arrangement—to set the tone.

Stock the lower shelf with wine, spirits, and mixers, and arrange glassware neatly on the top shelf for easy access. Add a cozy, seasonal touch with a fall-scented candle, decorative cocktail napkins, and a small tray for garnishes like citrus slices or cinnamon sticks. This not only makes your bar cart functional but also turns it into a chic, Instagram-worthy centerpiece for the celebration.

image via Oh So Glam

08 | Photo backdrop & balloon arch

A chic balloon arch makes the perfect Friendsgiving photo backdrop—fun, stylish, and guaranteed to get guests snapping pictures all night. Choose a warm, autumn-inspired palette like rust, cream, gold, and blush, and mix balloon sizes for a luxe, organic look.

Layer in dried florals & pampas grass, or faux fall leaves to tie the arch into your tablescape and decor. Position it behind your dining table, near the bar cart, or in a designated “photo corner” so guests have a spot to capture memories. Not only does it create a gorgeous focal point, but it also adds a playful, celebratory vibe that elevates the entire party atmosphere.

@tatispartyessentials

09 | Friendsgiving Charcuterie board

@thecheeseboardcomiami

10 | Pumpkin Painting party table

A pumpkin painting table is a charming and interactive addition to your Friendsgiving, giving guests a fun way to get creative between bites and conversation. Set up a dedicated table with small pumpkins (real or faux), a variety of acrylic paints, paintbrushes, and palettes, along with paper towels and water cups for rinsing brushes.

Add some inspo cards or simple stencil designs for those who want guidance, and don’t forget a disposable tablecloth for easy cleanup. This low-pressure, high-fun activity doubles as festive decor—guests can take their painted pumpkins home as a sweet, seasonal keepsake from the night.

Tik Tok

11 | Pumpkin wine cooler

Using a pumpkin as a wine bucket is a festive Friendsgiving hack that’s both functional and a total conversation starter. Simply choose a large pumpkin, cut off the top, and hollow it out, then place a bowl or clear plastic liner inside to hold ice.

Nestle in bottles of wine, champagne, or sparkling cider, and let the chilled drinks become part of your seasonal decor. For an extra touch, place the pumpkin bucket on a wooden tray or surrounded by autumn leaves and mini gourds—it’s a clever way to keep beverages cold while adding a cozy, harvest-inspired statement to your party spread.

12 | Make it a movie night

Turn your Friendsgiving into a cozy movie night by ending the evening with a lineup of fall classics like Hocus Pocus, You’ve Got Mail, or When Harry Met Sally. Create a comfy lounge area with plenty of blankets, floor cushions, and warm lighting—think string lights or candles—for an inviting, theater-at-home vibe.

Set out a snack station with popcorn, candy, and spiced cider (spiked or not) so guests can help themselves before settling in. It’s the perfect way to wind down the night, soak in the seasonal atmosphere, and make the celebration feel extra warm and memorable.

image source

13 | Adorn cocktails with an edible cocktail garnish

Add a playful and personal touch to your Friendsgiving drinks with edible cocktail garnishes featuring cute messages. Think cinnamon sticks wrapped with tiny paper tags that say “Grateful for You,” dried orange slices stamped with festive words, or a ‘friendsgiving’ message on top of the cocktail.

Not only do they make each drink feel special, but they also double as conversation starters and Instagram-worthy details. It’s a small gesture that adds a big dose of charm—and leaves guests sipping with a smile.

14 | Mini pumpkin name place setting

Mini pumpkins make the sweetest—and easiest—place name cards for your Friendsgiving table. Simply write each guest’s name on the pumpkin using a metallic paint pen or attach a small tag with twine or ribbon.

Place one at each setting to instantly add a personalized, festive touch that also doubles as a take-home favor. Whether you choose classic orange, soft white, or even custom painted pumpkins to match your color palette, this simple detail brings charm, warmth, and a little seasonal magic to your tablescape.

pumpkin placecards

15 | Take it outside and make it a picnic

For a laid-back twist on Friendsgiving, take the celebration outdoors and make it a cozy fall picnic. Spread out oversized blankets, layer in plenty of throw pillows, and set up a low table or wooden crates topped with a table runner for a charming, rustic feel.

Serve foods that are easy to eat al fresco—think grazing boards, thermoses of hot cider, and hand pies—and have a basket of extra blankets on hand in case the air gets crisp. Surrounded by golden leaves and fresh autumn air, your Friendsgiving will feel effortlessly magical and completely unforgettable.

@lokiexplore

Friendsgiving is all about connection—gathering your favorite people, sharing good food, and creating memories that feel warm long after the night ends. Whether you go big with a balloon arch, keep it cozy with a picnic, or add charming touches like pumpkin place cards and edible drink garnishes, it’s the little details that make the celebration truly special.

I’d love to know—which of these ideas would you try for your Friendsgiving? Or do you have your own go-to traditions? Share them in the comments so we can keep the inspiration flowing!

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💛 21 Easy & Crowd-pleasing Friendsgiving food ideas

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5 healthy secrets to a blissful & GLOWING pregnancy

I'm not going to lie. I lovee being pregnant. I always feel bad saying it because I know so many women who hated it but I have loved it. As much as your body changes, things feel out of control, you just continually gain weight, get crazy heartburn and the weirdest pains. . .it's actually such a beautiful time.

The first trimester was my roughest patch, I felt like I was going to throw up every day at 2 pm. However, when that first person talks about your glow, it finally hits you. And when your hair and nails are looking flawless, it can actually feel pretty fabulous, too. 

Thankfully, I got some really good advice from my girlfriends and have had the opportunity to slow down and really tune into this process. Even though, I am technically a geriatric (older) and high risk pregnancy, I have had zero complications and my doctor calls me his "unicorn" for how healthy I have been.

So now I want to share with you, the things I have loved during my pregnancy and how you can stay healthy and blissful during this incredible time. 

1. Smoothies.

Luckily, I love smoothies and crave them daily. Sometimes I have 2 a day. I have become obsessed with VegaOne protein in Vanilla Chai. It is hands down the best taking protein ever AND its vegan, so thats a plus! When I got annoyed of taking my prenatal vitamins, I put them in my smoothies because some of them taste gross. I use a Vitamix Blender because it blends everything so well no matter what I am making, I wouldn't use anything else. 

Pour the smoothie in a beautiful champagne glass or a fabulous cup to make the whole experience feel glamorous and special. 

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Here is my recipe for what I call my BERRY BLISSFUL BOMBSHELL smoothie:

2 scoops of ice

2 cups of almond milk

1 cup of strawberries

1/2 cup of blueberries

1 small bit of raw ginger

1 large scoop of almond butter (I use the natural ground butter from whole foods)

1 banana

1 scoop VegaOne Vanilla Chai protein powder

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2. Balance your body.

I tried prenatal yoga and honestly, I was bored out of my mind. I needed something a little bit more exciting and fun. So, I picked up this book Feng Shui Mommy and it was so, so informative and helpful.

I took 20 minute walks every morning while listening to podcasts or meditative music. 

I got massages about once every two months to zen out and help relax my back and body. 

I did prenatal yoga stretches throughout the day that I knew would help support my growing belly at home. I also made sure to take long, deep breaths while doing the moves. 

I also sit on a workout ball while working to help support my posture. 

3. Journaling.

I journaled like it was my business. All the emotions, hormones and fears that come during pregnancy are serious. The struggle is definitely real. For me, pregnancy has been such a spiritual time where I turned inward for everything. I asked myself questions that I had never thought of before which literally changed my entire outlook on life. I began to journal in a way where I let out all of my emotions and tried to study them and figure out how I could improve myself so that I am able to be the best mother I can be. 

The result of that was, I felt so passionately about my journaling experience, that I turned it into a book. The Blissful Living Journal. A beautiful journey into your best self. Pregnant or not, journaling is a beautiful experience.

I am so happy I was fortunate enough to be pregnant which really gave me time to focus on myself. The best things I have ever done. 

. . .and don't forget about POSITIVITY! One thing I have learned about pregnancy is that there is a lot going on mentally. A lot of fears come up, you have to keep your mind free of negativity and stress.

You can't talk to people who just want to tell you negative stories. Keep your mind clean and positive. Visualize a positive experience, expect the positive situations to be yours. This has been SO CRUCIAL for my pregnancy, you have no idea. No matter what comes your way, and trust me, stressful situations do come. DON'T FALL INTO THE TRAP. Choose the positive thoughts only! Trust me, this will be a life saver for you! 

I have become obsessed with POSITIVITY PENCILS. These are so pretty aren't they?

4. Exfoliation.

If you haven't tried dry brushing your body, trust me girl, you must do it! There are so many benefits to dry brushing your body like improving blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, sloughing off dead skin cells which stimulates new cell renewal, helping reduce cellulite and it also helps stimulate your nervous system. It feels fantastic too. Get yourself a dry brush this minute. 

I also like body scrubs. I like to get these at TJ Maxx because they have the best smells. When you get out of the bath, your skin is just absolutely glowing. 

5. Treating yourself.

Don't wait for your husband or partner to treat you. Treat yourself. Bring yourself flowers from the market. Draw yourself a beautiful milk bath, which I have become obsessed with milk baths.

They are so soothing to the skin. I take a nightly bath where I slather on beauty products all over me.

Yes, I also put fresh flowers in my baths too. You are creating a tiny little human being inside of you, you deserve it all!!! So, really take this time to let yourself indulge in all the divine things that we women get to experience. I also purchased this robe and I wear it every time I get out of the bath just after I slather on my belly butter all over my body.