Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Serving Greater Cincinnati

Elegant, Not Expensive: Tips for a Fruitful yet Frugal Thanksgiving Dinner

This is it. You’re hosting the family for Thanksgiving, and all eyes are on you. Maybe you’re fretting over menus, oven space, or how you’ll keep Uncle Frank entertained before dinner is served. If so, you’re not alone. It’s only natural to feel pressure when hosting a big holiday meal, but you can stop fretting because we’ve put together a few simple tips to put your Thanksgiving meal over the top!

Ditch the Disposable

White dishes from Goodwill
White dishes from Goodwill

If you want to create a memorable holiday, put down the paper plates. Not only are disposable plates and cups decidedly not elegant, but they’re also wasteful.

Pitcher from Goodwill

Many people don’t have enough dishes for a large family gathering. If you find yourself short, head to your nearest Goodwill thrift store and buy a dish set instead! Thrifting dishes for the holiday is affordable, sustainable, and stylish.

Imagine your guests sitting down to a Thanksgiving meal served on a variety of vintage dishes. What a way to make a statement! And the best part is if you don’t have room to store the dishes after your event, you can just donate them back to Goodwill.

Faux flowers from Goodwill
Flowers from Goodwill

Embrace the Unique

Give your table that special touch by thrifting items for a centerpiece! Goodwill’s aisles are often filled with vintage candlesticks, serving platters, vases, tablecloths, and more. Thrifting your table décor will allow you to find high-quality pieces that you can’t find anywhere else. Your Thanksgiving dinner will have an elevated look without the cost.

Next Level Hosting

Colorful glass vase from Goodwill
Colorful glass vase from Goodwill

This tip will definitely leave your guests talking about your incredible hosting skills! Stock up on reusable storage containers at Goodwill, and before your guests say goodbye, pack up to-go containers with turkey, stuffing, and all the favorite Thanksgiving fixings. Everyone loves Thanksgiving leftovers!

Red vases from Goodwill
Red vases from Goodwill

To really wow them, consider using thrifted vases filled with fresh-cut flowers in your décor. Then, send each guest home with a vase of their own! It’s a simple gesture that will make your guests feel special and appreciated.

Armed with these tips, you’ll easily feel the stress of hosting melt away “” although there isn’t much we can do about Uncle Frank. Find your nearest Goodwill thrift store and follow these steps to create a Thanksgiving experience your guests will remember for years to come!