Every November, you dream of hosting a chic Friendsgiving dinner for your friend circle, but something stops you. Whether it’s getting schedules to align, putting together a menu that won’t feel like a repeat of Thursday night, or maybe your energy levels are going kaput, that once-exciting idea to plan a get-together starts feeling like a chore.
But we’re here to tell you it can be done. Having us in your corner will turn all that prep stress into day-of success. Our approach is to simplify without sacrificing style, and to combine elements of a traditional Friendsgiving dinner with an activity your friends love already: brunch!
Hosting an encore of Thanksgiving dinner the next day can feel redundant, which is why brunch is the perfect alternative. As for the menu, we’re of the mind that your guests will appreciate lighter, healthier fare that aligns with the ‘no eating until New Year’s Eve’ pact everyone makes after they’ve had seconds (and thirds) at the Thanksgiving table.
Keep reading to see how we bring to life a beautiful, harvest-inspired Friendsgiving brunch your friends will remember for years to come.
- Make It A Picnic
Lay down gorgeous vintage mud cloth throws and mix of vintage rugs, and floor pillows around a low-dining table either outdoor or indoors. We opted for an outdoor brunch to complement the crisp fall weather. The informal yet inviting setting lets your guests know that today is meant for lounging, brunching and mingling.
Lux Eros Pyramid Serving Bowl // Fragment Identity Assorted Kilim Wool Pillows, Mud Cloth Pillows // Mud Cloth Napkins
2. A Harvest Tablescape
In keeping with a bohemian-inspired tablescape that feels elevated and inviting, we picked an array of romantic seasonal flowers in muted, autumnal tones, king proteas and russet-hued dahlias surrounded by pomegranates and persimmons. The matte black candle holders, flatware and handmade pottery dishes complement the distressed wood table and work to enhance the fall colors.
3. Create A “Build-Your-Own” Toast Menu
We wanted the menu to be light and health-focused (to combat the over-indulgence), but still inspired by the traditional ingredients in Thanksgiving dishes. A Build-Your-Own-Toast bar is sure to be a guest favorite. Our bar included two bases: gluten-free bread and roasted sweet potato “toasts” surrounded by various in-season toppings like avocado, vegan cream cheese, pomegranate and pumpkin seeds, watermelon radishes, honey and pears.
4. Set Up A Recovery Bar
In lieu of mimosas, we arranged a collection of our favorite refreshing and reviving non-alcoholic drinks. From Moon Juice packets and zippy iced coffees to sparkling water, loose leaf teas and kombuchas. Staying hydrated and recharged is what it’s about.
Lux Eros La Carafe in Blush //
Topo Chico // Moon Juice Dusts // Vybes Organic Hemp Beverages
5. Whip Up Take-Home Favors
Sending your guests home with a thoughtful, take-home favor is the mark of a good hostess. We have two ideas: homemade cranberry jam in individual jars and homemade Palo Santo and selenite bundles complete with sage, feathers and dried flowers.
6. Leave Room For Dessert
Leave room for a slice of grain-free vanilla buttercream frosted cake topped with figs and pomegranate seeds. Ending the day shared with your favorite people in the sweetest of ways.
Happy Friendsgiving!
Xx The Planning Society
Creative Studio: Bub + George // Photography: Jenna Peffley for Bub + George