This year, everything looks different. From how we shop for groceries to how we celebrate holidays. I’ve always loved the ritual of Thanksgiving because it’s main focus is to bring everyone together with good food and drinks. This year, instead of hosting a big gathering of friends and family, we must take solace in the fact that staying safe is more important. I encourage you to make the most of your intimate Thanksgiving with those who live in your home. Here are some things we are doing to make next Thursday feel festive and not like just another dinner for two.

DRESS UP

Getting out of your sweats and into proper fitting trousers and a real shoe can make all the difference in setting the tone for a more thoughtful and special meal. Have your significant other/roommie/parents do the same. It will feel nice to shower, do your hair, and get dressed. It doesn’t have to be black tie, but choosing something to wear that has yet to come out of your closet this season will set the tone for a more formal dining experience.

DRESS THE TABLE

No paper plates here, and maybe even opt for a table cloth. Again, it doesn’t have to be super fancy, just something more special than the everyday meal. Whether it is an excuse to use your fancy dishes (do people still have China sets?) or putting a flower arrangement in the center of the table from foraged flowers, any change from the mundane is an improvement. Another great option is to move your dinner into a new space. If you normally eat at the kitchen table, make use of your formal dining room (even if it is currently being used as a WFH station). Or take your meal into more laid back territory by sitting on the floor around your coffee table. Here are some tips on how to sustainably set your table by shopping around your house and more.

SET THE MOOD

Mood lighting is essential and an easy way to change the way you normally spend time in a room. Dim the lights, light a fire or an assortment of candles and put on your favorite play list. Setting the mood is all about the senses. Throw your sheepskins over your dining chairs for a more cozy and intimate seat at the dining table.

TRY A NEW RECIPE

If you’ve been wanting to try a more labor intensive dish, what better excuse to do so then now? Here are some of my favorite plant-based meals I’ve made over the past few years. They were big hits with meat eaters and vegans alike. The best part about these dishes is that you can prepare most of the ingredients the day before and simply assemble and bake the day of!

Vegan Butternut Galette with Apples and Black Pepper Chickpea and Cornmeal Crust (pictured above – vegan and gluten-free)

Puff Pastry Wrapped Lentil Loaf with Onion Gravy (vegan)

Vegetables Wellington with Gravy (vegan)

Whatever your holiday plans this year, please keep others in mind and stay safe.