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Pumpkin pecan roulare from Chef Kelli Appelhans

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Hosting a Beautiful Friendsgiving

Our Tips for a Memorable Celebration

Article by Emily Montgomery

Photography by Averee Dye

Originally published in Greeley Lifestyle

As the crisp autumn breeze sweeps through the air and leaves adorn the ground with vibrant hues, it's time to gather your gal pals and celebrate a festive Friendsgiving. Friendsgiving, a cherished tradition among friends, is an opportunity to express gratitude and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned hostess or a first-timer, this guide will help you throw a memorable Friendsgiving soirée that your gal pals will cherish.

The Turkey Won’t Be the Only Thing Dressed for the Occasion

Don’t be afraid to wear your favorite fall fashions. You can wear a festive dress or skirt, or you can elevate a classic jean look by adding a sweater or accessories. Dress up and enjoy the celebration!

Setting the Scene

Creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere is the first step to a successful Friendsgiving. Opt for warm, fall-inspired decorations such as pumpkins, leaves, and candles to set the mood. Consider using a long communal table to encourage conversation and bonding among your gal pals. Soft lighting and autumn-themed centerpieces will add a touch of elegance to your gathering.

The Feast

The heart of Friendsgiving lies in the feast. Work with your gal pals to plan a diverse menu that includes everyone's favorites. From traditional dishes like roasted turkey and stuffing to vegetarian and vegan alternatives, make sure there's something for everyone. Delegate cooking responsibilities among your friends to share the workload and ensure a delicious spread.

For a unique twist, you could even consider a potluck-style Friendsgiving, where each gal pal brings a signature dish to share. This way, everyone gets to contribute and showcase their culinary skills.

Gratitude and Toasts

Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Friendsgiving offers an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciate the bonds you share with your gal pals. Before the meal, encourage everyone to share what they're thankful for. This heartwarming tradition will set a positive tone for the gathering and remind everyone of the importance of friendship.

To add a touch of elegance and create a celebratory atmosphere, prepare a special toast to honor friendship and the memories you've created together. Raise a glass and share heartfelt words to express how much each gal pal means to you.

Entertainment and Activities

To keep the energy high and the laughter flowing, plan some entertaining activities. Arrange for board games, charades, or a DIY photo booth with props that capture the essence of the season. Engaging in fun activities will encourage laughter and bonding among your gal pals, making the Friendsgiving celebration even more memorable.

Capturing the Moments

Don't forget to document the memories made during your Friendsgiving extravaganza. Assign a designated photographer or encourage your gal pals to capture candid moments throughout the event. Later, share these photos with your friends as a beautiful reminder of the special day you spent together.

Sweet Endings

After indulging in the main feast, treat your friends to a dessert spread featuring an assortment of pies and sweets. Homemade pies can offer an assortment of traditional holiday flavors. For a non-traditional dessert that is both delicious and aesthetic, a pumpkin pecan roulade with cream cheese filling is a classic flavor combination and for a richer option, a chocolate ganache roulade with whipped cream filling is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

Cherishing Friendship Year-Round

Friendsgiving is more than a meal—it's a celebration of friendship, gratitude and togetherness. By curating a day filled with heartfelt conversations, creative activities and culinary delights, you'll craft an experience that resonates with your girlfriends long after the dishes are cleared. This Friendsgiving, let love, laughter and shared moments be the centerpiece of your celebration.

  • Back Row: Bethany Wiley, Tasia Munger, Susan McKenzie and Brooke Cole. Front Row: Emily Montgomery, Shelby Perez, Delaney Morrow, Mandi Dunn and Kelly Zeillmann
  • Back Row: Bethany Wiley, Tasia Munger, Susan McKenzie and Brooke Cole. Front Row: Emily Montgomery, Shel Francis, Delaney Morrow, Mandi Dunn and Kelly Zeillmann
  • Brooklyn Finds Design CO
  • Pumpkin pecan roulade from Chef Kelli Appelhans
  • Apple blackberry and pecan pie from Ellie's Corner
  • Greeley Lifestyle Writer, Bethany Wiley and Editorial Coordinator, Emily Montgomery
  • Greeley Lifestyle Writer, Bethany Wiley
  • Apple blackberry pie from Ellie's Corner
  • Apple blackberry pie from Ellie's Corner
  • Pumpkin pecan roulare from Chef Kelli Appelhans
  • Pumpkin pecan roulare from Chef Kelli Appelhans
  • Greeley Lifestyle Writer, Susan McKenzie
  • Greeley Lifestyle Writer, Kelly Zeillmann
  • Greeley Lifestyle Photographer, Shelby Perez

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