Hosting Thanksgiving this year? Get your home guest-ready!
Thanksgiving is right around the corner! If you’re the lucky one hosting this year’s big gathering in the Grand Forks area, it’s time to get your home set for the holiday hustle and bustle. Between feasting, football, and family, Thanksgiving can bring a whirlwind of guests, warmth, and maybe a few unexpected surprises (like your uncle’s infamous 6 AM coffee wakeup). But don’t sweat it—preparing your home to welcome guests is all part of the fun, and I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll cover practical tips for getting your space ready, a few tried-and-true “insider” tricks, and even a few things you might not have thought about. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re a seasoned pro, these strategies will help ensure your guests feel at home while you still get to live legendary in North Dakota. Plus, if you’re interested in more resources for creating a great home environment, don’t miss my free Thanksgiving Prep Guide to help you host in style!
1. Declutter Your Main Spaces First
Let’s start simple. Focus on high-traffic areas like the living room, dining room, and guest bathroom. Don’t stress about the entire house; just make sure the main areas are clear, clean, and welcoming.
Quick Tips for a Quick Refresh:
- Living Room: A fresh set of pillows and a cozy throw can instantly warm up your seating area.
- Entryway: Keep this space clear and inviting—no one wants to trip over shoes as they walk in!
- Dining Area: Think of how many seats you’ll need and consider rearranging if it gives your guests more space.
Pro Tip: Store personal items, like mail or paperwork, out of sight. Not only does this make the home feel more open, but it also adds an extra layer of privacy while guests are around.
2. Prepare the Kitchen for the Big Day
Your kitchen is about to become ground zero for Thanksgiving magic. And trust me, as someone who learned the hard way, having your kitchen ready for the madness of Thanksgiving prep can make all the difference.
Here’s a checklist to get it ready:
- Counter Space: Clear counters as much as possible to make room for food prep and serving dishes.
- Dishware and Utensils: Have enough plates, utensils, and glasses for everyone. You’d be surprised how quickly you run out!
- Guest Essentials: For visiting family members who will be around pre- or post-Thanksgiving, stock up on coffee, tea, and easy breakfast items. Early risers will appreciate having something to snack on before the main meal.
This is where you can really embrace the “legendary” lifestyle of North Dakota hospitality. A warm cup of coffee or homemade hot chocolate in the morning can set the tone for a memorable weekend.
3. Set Up Guest Bedrooms Like a Cozy North Dakota Lodge
If you have family staying over for a few days, give them a cozy retreat that screams North Dakota warmth. You don’t need to go overboard—just a few touches can make all the difference.
Consider adding:
- Fresh Bedding: Clean sheets, extra blankets, and a couple of plush pillows make a huge impact.
- A Few Local Touches: Maybe a small welcome basket with snacks, a guidebook of Grand Forks highlights, or even one of my relocation guides. It’s a subtle way to show off what makes this area unique.
- Extra Toiletries: Guests always forget something, whether it’s toothpaste or a phone charger. A small basket of essentials can save someone a trip to the store.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got multiple guests, give each room a little touch of personalization—like a favorite book or a framed picture from a past Thanksgiving. It’s these small details that make hosting feel less like a chore and more like a joy.
4. Get the Bathrooms Ready (Trust Me on This One)
Nothing feels more “homey” than a well-stocked, clean bathroom. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen guests awkwardly hunt for extra toilet paper or hand soap. Let’s avoid that!
Here’s your guest-ready bathroom checklist:
- Extra Towels: Have plenty on hand and within reach.
- Toiletries: Stock up on hand soap, extra toilet paper, tissues, and hand towels.
- Lighting and Ventilation: No one wants to use a dim, stuffy bathroom. A nice candle or a gentle air freshener can add that extra touch.
Insider Tip: If you’re going all out, add a few travel-size toiletries in case someone forgot their toothbrush or deodorant.
5. Create a Cozy, Warm Thanksgiving Ambiance
When guests enter your home, you want it to feel inviting. Lighting and scent can set the entire mood. And since we’re talking North Dakota, think “warm cabin vibes” with a touch of elegance.
To-Do’s for the Perfect Ambiance:
- Lighting: Use warm lighting for a cozy effect. Swap out any harsh bulbs for soft ones, and add candles or fairy lights in main areas.
- Scents: A seasonal candle (pumpkin spice or cinnamon) or a simmer pot with oranges and cloves can make your home smell amazing.
- Music: Create a playlist with mellow, festive music. Soft background music adds a lot of ambiance without needing much effort.
Pro-Tip for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving: Prep a Several Days Early
From experience, I can tell you that last-minute rushing is the enemy of a relaxed holiday. Spend some time the day before arranging furniture, setting the table, or even prepping ingredients for dinner. Not only will this help you avoid stress, but it’ll give you more time to actually enjoy Thanksgiving with family and friends.
Hosting This Year? Download My Free Home Prep Guide Today!
This Thanksgiving, let’s make sure you’re set to live legendary here in North Dakota. I’m all about helping Grand Forks locals feel right at home in their own space, whether you’re hosting the biggest family gathering or just having a few friends over.
For a step-by-step guide to transforming your home into a holiday haven, download my free Thanksgiving Prep Guide today. And if you’re looking for additional resources, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Home Buying Guide, Home Selling Guide, or Relocation Guide tailored for Grand Forks newcomers. Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to show off the best of your home—and I’m here to help you every step of the way!
Final Thoughts
Hosting Thanksgiving can be a lot, but with a little prep, you can pull off a warm and memorable gathering that feels effortless. The key is balancing comfort with practicality—whether it’s a few new throw blankets or some carefully chosen lighting, these touches make all the difference. Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to celebrate the place you call home with the people who matter most. I hope you have an incredible time this year, Grand Forks!
And hey, if you’re looking to make that “home” truly yours, remember that I’m here to help you live legendary in North Dakota.
