The candles are lit, the food is set, and a long table stretches across the clubhouse. An amenity space transforms into a warm dining room ready to receive strangers who will leave as friends. Friendsgiving can be one of the most memorable events of the year! On today's blog, we are sharing hospitality secrets from our Apartment Life Coordinators across the nation to prepare you to host your first-ever Friendsgiving. Hope you're hungry!
Your Guide to Hosting a First-Ever Friendsgiving
The best part about a Thanksgiving meal? The delicious options! Most coordinators use their funds to invest in a turkey, ham, and drinks... then leave sides and desserts for a potluck-style experience. Neighbors who may not be seeing their family for the holidays will appreciate the opportunity to share a family recipe (or stop by the grocery store for a last-minute bag of rolls).
→ Instead of using chafing dishes for all of the food, grab this luxury mat food warmer!
→ Don't forget to grab chalkboard signs to label the food and any allergies!
Alta 25 Apartments: Monument, Colorado
As neighbors come down to enjoy a drink and start chatting, it helps to have a couple of activities ready to create organic community.
A few ideas:
→ "We are Thankful For" sign residents can fill out and enjoy reading
→ Set out a fall-themed "Find Someone Who" Game
→ Don't forget the kids! Print off a few Friendsgiving coloring sheets
3. Set the Table
A few rectangle 6-foot tables draped with a long tablecloth can transform a common clubhouse space into a warm and welcoming dining room! For a decorating hack, use colorful cheesecloth to trick the eye into looking up and select tall taper candles and greenery to fill the space. Beautiful plastic tableware will make the meal look elevated, and setting it on the table will allow guests to feel like their arrival was anticipated. Show off your creative skills and don't be afraid to use pine cones, pumpkins, and other seasonal items found in nature to save money.
→ Here is an elevated cheesecloth option
→ These LED Taper Candles are a safe alternative to lighting a flame
→ A bright fall leaves garland will add dimension
4. Don't Toss the Leftovers!
Before the event, make a list of residents who are sick, disabled, or unable to attend. Prepare a few to-go containers to deliver food - with a note - after the event. Be sure to have lots of throwaway boxes, bags, foil, or containers ready for residents to take home their leftover plates.
The Depot Apartments: Raymore, Missouri
Submit Your Ideas
We would love to hear from you! If you have helpful Friendsgiving hacks or tried one of the tips above, drop a comment below and let us know! We are here to inspire your community-building and help you make your home your neighbor's favorite place to be. Want to see more pics of Apartment Life in action? Follow us on Instagram!
Interested in serving with Apartment Life as an Events and Ministry Coordinator? We're hiring! Learn more and search for openings near you here.
Interested in enhancing community life at your property? Learn more about hiring Apartment Life for your community here.