how to host Thanksgiving in a small space

So you’ve decided to host Thanksgiving in your teeny-tiny home. Good for you! The first rule of thumb is to not overdo it. We repeat, do NOT overdo it. This means creating a simple yet tasteful menu and delegating items for your guests to bring (we’re all about a buffet in these situations.) Similarly, keep cleanup and prepping simple by doing only what’s totally necessary (that deep clean can wait!). Follow this easy step-by-step guide and you’ll be a host with the most in no time.

Making a timeline is key for any successful Thanksgiving dinner, but especially in a small space because every little detail counts. We suggest starting at the beginning of the month so you can maximize every minute leading up to Thanksgiving. This will also help keep your stress level at a minimum.

First, get an adequate head count of your guests. Allow for a few last-minute stragglers or dropouts, then take stock of the serving supplies you have and what you’ll need to replace or purchase. Make sure you have plenty of large bowls, platters, a cheese board, and good knives. Next, do you have enough plates and cutlery? You can always go the paper/plastic route but having real dishes on Thanksgiving always feels special and more grown-up.

Getting rid of unnecessary clutter and putting things away will help you see if and how you want to rearrange your layout for the big day. Vacuum, mop, and scrub all your countertops and cabinet fronts. Any kitchen appliances you won’t need for Thanksgiving meal prep should be stored away to maximize your workspace.

If you’re inviting more than a few guests, consider investing in a coat rack to minimize the chaos when they arrive. (Rifling through a bed full of black puffy coats at the end of the night is never fun.) And if you prefer that your friends remove their shoes, it’s a great idea to place a shoe rack next to the door.

In small spaces, it’s best to get creative with seating rather than buying furniture you don’t have room for. So consider poufs, floor pillows, and folding chairs as easy options that you can move around as guests come and go. For happy hour, designate a table or two (a coffee table, low bookshelf, or ottoman also works) where your apps and beverages are easy to reach. A bar cart is also a genius idea since you can roll it wherever you need it. As for the main meal, a buffet-style situation is best for tight spaces. You can repurpose furniture you already have, or pick up a folding card table or two and place a cute tablecloth over it.

Little touches can go a long way in a small space. A festive table runner or centerpiece, for instance, can brighten your setting, and an autumnal wreath is a nice way to welcome guests. New linen napkins are a thoughtful touch, and make sure you have enough serving trays to keep mixers, and condiments organized. To direct the flow of your party, consider stacking plates on the left side of the serving table, next to the napkins and flatware. And use fun place cards to label each dish and keep the line moving smoothly.