These tips will actually work for Thanksgiving or anytime. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or giving a dinner party they will help make things more functional when serving guests.
While many people choose to serve a “family style,” Thanksgiving dinner, where platters and bowls of delicious food are passed around the table, some may find that the dining table soon becomes to full of good food to be very functional. Instead, you might consider setting up a buffet.
A good way to do this and still keep the food the focus is to set a serving table or sideboard at the foot end of the dining table. It’s better to avoid seating anyone at the foot of the table if possible, and be sure to allow plenty of room between the buffet and table. By setting it up this way, everyone can still see the food. You can create a gorgeous and enticing buffet for all the large dishes and keep things like rolls, butter, relishes, and condiments on the dining table.
If you like the feel of the family style meal and hate to give it up, there’s a compromise. Place large platters and serving bowls on the buffet and use smaller ones on the dining table. You can refill them as needed. You’ll still have the cozy feel of family style while allowing more space on the table.
If you don’t have a piece of furniture that you can use for a buffet, or simply don’t have room for an extra piece in the dining area or kitchen, you can use your counter top to set up a buffet. It helps to clear everything off the counter top in advance. Stash your toaster and other small appliances that won’t be needed in a cabinet or the pantry. Make sure all dishes are washed and put away.
Cover your kitchen sink to provide extra workspace or serving space. A simple piece of wood can be cut down to fit over the top of your sink (make it a couple inches longer and wider than your sink). Cut out a slot for the faucet, and slide the piece into place. If the wood is rough, you’ll want to sand it. You may want to stain the wood, paint it to match your counter tops, or apply a decorative treatment or design.
More Entertaining Tips:
Entertaining: Preparing an Attractive Buffet
Use Natural & Rustic Touches to Set a Great Table
Making Guests Comfortable in Your Home