What happens when you combine 80 people, a packed living room, and a modern potluck? You get Friendsgiving 2017! Unlike past Friendsgiving where every detail was planned out to the minute, this Friendsgiving had far more ebb and flow. (As most large events do!) With the heart of family and collaboration at the center of this event, the meal was a potluck centered around American favorites. For many in our crowd, it was one of their first American Thanksgiving, so the classic staples came full force.
Keep reading for this year’s details after the jump!
The Table
Using foraged greenery, a few wildflower bouquets, miniature pumpkins, and driftwood, kept the table elevated and approachable. With a thrifted low patinaed vessel, it held the flowers. I kept the rest of the arrangement simple with eucalyptus placed flat down the length of the table, a bit of mini pumpkins, and high contrast feathers. To add a bit of shine and sparkle, I placed mercury glass tealight holders scattered throughout. With washed gray linen napkins, each place setting was anchored by a place card with copper hand lettered script. One of my favorite touches at each place setting is a tradition we started in our family a few years ago. On the back of each placecard, we write a letter of encouragement and why we’re thankful for one another on the back. It has been something that has set our family dinners apart and one I will continue for years to come.
The Entryway
With copper led miniature string lights, we set up a simple Instax station. Using a wooden round, we set out our Instax camera and added a bit of eucalyptus. I used a few simple push pins to anchor the string of jute twine to the wall. Adding pictures of friends from the event, add a fun interactive element to the day and a great favor for friends to take with them as they go home.
The Food
To keep things simple, we kept this Friendsgiving a modern potluck. Those who were hosting prepped the space and kept the details organized. Everyone brought a favorite covered dish and a few brave souls cooked the turkeys for the crowd. (Most of our budget for the evening went toward turkey.) From kale and pumpkin salads to marscapone mashed potatoes, our crowd full of foodies, showed up in prime form.
This Friendsgiving was one for the books! Next year, we’re going a bit crazy. What happens when the open flame meets thanksgiving dinner. It’s going to be phenomenal!