How to Make a Sit Down Dinner Special

Make your sit down dinner extra special!It's the holiday season and time for gathering with friends and family for meals and fun!All of our family is in California so we will have a very quaint gathering at my house this year. That doesn't mean that the dinner and place settings won't be extra special! We always look forward to a sit down dinner at Thanksgiving. My husband makes the turkey. I have never cooked the turkey and I'm not sure how I have gotten out of that! I like to make pies, stuffing and apple-cranberry sauce instead of missing with a raw bird.Whether you are having a large gathering or a small one, here are some tips to make your sit down dinner a special one.

  1. Place a guest card at each seat so that your guests don't have to figure out where to sit. Have your kids make these! They like to help with the table decorations and set up. My kids have made them in the past and they were so proud of their contribution.
  2. Use your best china and crystal. I was just talking with a client who said that she had never used the china that she received as wedding gifts and it was all packed up in the attic. Now is the time!
  3. Make a centerpiece with fresh flowers. Keep it low, no more that 12" tall so that you can see your guests. If you are not a flower stylist, no problem. Take your flower container or vase to your local florist and she/he will suggest flowers and arrange the centerpiece for you. My little secret is Kroger. I have taken a variety of vases in over the years and the florist always helps me create something beautiful out of the fresh flowers that we select together.
  4. Chill the salad plates before the salad is served to keep the greens crisp.
  5. Cloth napkins are a must!
  6. Pour the water and bubbly before your guests sit down.
  7. Light some candles! Use tea lights in crystal cups, long, thin taper candles or a combination of both.
  8. Create a tray with coffee fixings to have with dessert. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, fresh whipped cream, sugar cubes, candy canes, half and half, and maybe some Kahlua or Irish Cream!

Have fun and go the extra mile for your sit down dinner. Your guests will notice and remember how special they felt! Happy Thanksgiving and may blessings to you and yours!HollyFlower Arrangement Advisor

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