The Thanksgiving Countdown Continues

It’s exactly two weeks before the big day. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it. Which means that the planning should begin now. Over the last few years, we’ve had our share of Thanksgiving hits and misses. Here’s a summary of the basic lessons learned.

First, plan your menu. It’s not a good idea to be trying to find the ultimate mashed potato recipe on the morning of the event. Get your recipes together, make shopping lists, prep lists, and guest lists. Finalize the number of guests that will attend, keeping in mind that it’s always nice to make room for more. You never know who will show up at the last minute- make them feel welcome!

Make a seating chart, if you’re going to have one. Delegate tasks to others well in advance, so they aren’t surprised with late requests.

Next week, you can start shopping- doing it in two or three trips will be easier than trying to fill five carts at the same time everyone else is. It’s also a good idea to do a final inventory after you’ve finished shopping. On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, do a detailed inventory. Get your lists together and check things off- do you have the cream? Enough eggs? Tablecloth? Wine? Corkscrew? Better to know ahead of time!

Remember, planning eliminates panic (or minimizes it), and have fun! After all, the point of Thanksgiving is to celebrate and give thanks for family and friends.

To help those who want some advice on perfecting Thanksgiving, we’ve lined up a few more classes that will answer last minute questions.

Worried about the sauces and condiments? Join Brian Kerr at our Lake Oswego store on Sunday, November 16 for a Hands on Sauces symposium. Brian’s interactive classes are a great way to learn new techniques and tips.

Is this your first year hosting Thanksgiving? Wondering how to pick a wine for the holiday meal? Join Lisa Shara Hall for an in depth look at wine on Wednesday, November 18. Lisa has years of experience pairing food and wine and can help you find the perfect bottle for your special event.

More concerned about dessert than dinner? If so, don’t miss our holiday baking classes! Two of them are well in time to give you inspiration for the ultimate Thanksgiving dessert: there’s one for the kids on November 22, and one for the adults on November 23.


Whatever you’re worried about, our holiday classes can help! For more information and to register for the classes, please visit www.ingoodtastestore.com, or call (503) 248-2015.