5 Fresh Ways to Make This Year’s Friendsgiving Unforgettable, According to Event Planners

Start with a shared conversation

Molly Simard, an event planner and founder of House of Palmer, describes Friendsgiving as an adult version of the sit-down dinners she grew up with in South Carolina. Her family shared the highs and lows of each day around the table. She says a single conversation prompt can help turn a gathering of unfamiliar guests into a more connected meal.

Layer the table thoughtfully

Simard recommends building the table with layers, such as a tablecloth or runner, chargers or placemats, dinner and salad plates, and a napkin. She advises choosing one or two colors and combining patterns and textures rather than matching everything.

Keep arrangements below 12 inches so guests can see and talk to one another across the table. Simard also suggests setting the table the night before.

Save a few surprises

A signature cocktail that fits the theme, inventive names for menu items or karaoke at the end of the evening can give the gathering unexpected moments. Simard advises hosts to introduce surprises gradually rather than revealing them all at once.

Donaho says these touches can leave guests with a full heart. She suggests drawing inspiration from trips, concerts and favorite meals shared with friends.