Thanksgiving Do's & Don'ts

Whether you’re the host, hostess or hostee, Thanksgiving is an affair rife with do’s and don’ts—from dinner attire to wine selections and seating arrangement; who’s stuck sitting next to Great Aunt Mildred? We asked our pals at the DDB's Marketing office for their advice on how to make this holiday simple and sweet.

Bobby Contini, National Marketing Director:

"Don't forget the last minute fabulous dessert. Use in-season fruit, slice and arrange it beautifully on a bed of ivy or something from the outdoors. If you can't find anything practical or clean enough like ivy, throw it on a fabulous plate. Strawberries work best if you press them and sprinkle some powdered sugar on them or drizzle some dark, milk or white chocolate on them. Then, enjoy!" Bobby continued, "It's a hassle free, easy and beautiful thing to put on your table or bring to someone's house, and everyone can enjoy it."

Jason Lowe, Director, Design Professionals:

"Every year as Thanksgiving approaches, I feel like we are constantly bombarded with article after article about what wine choices we should be making.  After many great Thanksgivings with friends, all with really different likes and dislikes, we have learned to ignore the wine tips and just go with what we like.  Don’t worry about it — get inexpensive wines and LOTS of them. And enjoy."

Millie Massa-Ahmed, Marketing Associate:

"Do get dressed up. It's a holiday, people! The worst thing you can do is look like a mess in front of friends and family. Do bring your host or hostess a gift if you're not hosting yourself, you can't forget that. Don't forget to thank the people who invited you, it's tough work to host! And enjoy the holiday with friends and family. Don't be alone for Thanksgiving; the holiday is all about good people, delicious food, and lots of laughs!"

Kate Bergeron, Design Professionals:

"Please don't forget to say what you're thankful for. I've always felt that being together is more important than having 3 turkeys and ridiculous plastic leaves on my plate. Then again, I've yet to host my own Thanksgiving dinner. Oh! And don't forget the wine!"

Leave a comment and tell us what your do's and don'ts are. GoDesignGo and Cohen Design Center staff wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving!