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!
Download or print the checklist:
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!
Download or print the checklist:
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:
