Here in the palmetto state, we know two things: a good biscuit recipe is a secret weapon in every southerner’s kitchen, and family always comes first! I named my handmade biscuit company after my mom, Callie, back in 2005. 15 years later, I am a mom to three with a passion for holiday gathering. So much so, that I make a commitment every year to spend the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving collecting food for family recipes from purveyors across the state. 

Carrie Morey's South Carolinian Thanksgiving Checklists:

Checklist: What to do 1-2 weeks before Thanksgiving

• Finalize guest list
• Order turkey or standing rib roast (1 lb. per 4-6 people)
• Order rolls or biscuits and/or dessert if no one is bringing it.
• Delegate tasks: Dessert, Champagne and Wine, Charcuterie, and Appetizers
• Make a shopping list
• Clean and prepare holiday serving pieces - a tabletop tradition in our household!

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Checklist: What to do the week of Thanksgiving

• Grocery Shop
• Turkey or rib roast preparation
• Make Day-Before Dishes: Squash Casserole, Biscuits, Savory Thyme Butter
• Plan seating arrangements and make place cards - my girls love to make these with leaves, pinecones, etc.!
• Prepare linens
• Set the table - I do this early, but it can be done day-of!
• Create bonding moments by getting the family together to:
• Dress up napkins by wrapping the twine, with rosemary or cinnamon sticks
• Polish silverware in the morning with a Bloody Mary
• Let the kids create their own table. I use white craft paper in place of a linen and draw place mats for them to "decorate" during dinner.
• Don't forget the sentiment! Add your favorite vase or flowers for the perfect touch!

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Checklist: What to do the day of Thanksgiving

• Time turkey so it finishes roasting during cocktail hour
• Bake ahead:
• Squash, Dressing, Potato Gratin
• Keep warm with aluminum foil
• Keep rice warm on stove
• Create ambiance with a fire in the fireplace. If it's hot outside, turn down the air conditioning!
• Offer guests drinks upon arrival.
• Let everyone serve themselves! Keep the flow moving + enjoy!
• Clean-Up Assignments: My aunt assigns everyone (except the cooks, of course!) a chore on the back of their place card for quick and easy assistance!
• Kids gather utensils
• Uncle Bob gathers glassware
• Aunt Sue washes dishes
• Cousin Liz dries dishes

Download or print the checklist: