5 Ways to Make Thanksgiving More Meaningful (and Less Chaotic)

The holidays can feel like…a lot. Full schedules, long lists, and the pressure to somehow make everything perfect. But a meaningful Thanksgiving doesn’t come from doing more. It usually comes from slowing down enough to notice what actually matters. Here are a few simple ways to make the day feel calmer, more intentional, and a whole lot more enjoyable.

1. Simplify the Menu

Pick a handful of dishes you really love and let the rest go. This year we decided to skip the stuffing entirely, make a couple of homemade pies, and order the rest of the meal.

No one remembers how many sides were on the table—they remember how it felt to be together. Ask guests to bring one thing, or grab a couple of store-made items to make the day easier on yourself.

2. Set the Table the Easy Way

Use what you already have. I used to stress myself out trying to have matching place settings for everyone, but I’ve let that go.

Mismatched plates, a simple piece of linen, and a handful of dried stems or greenery from the yard can create such a warm, inviting table. Imperfect usually ends up feeling more personal anyway.

3. Build in a Pause

Before the meal, invite everyone to take a moment of gratitude. Nothing formal—just a breath, a sentence, or a small moment of quiet.

It doesn’t have to be a big speech. Just slowing down for a second helps shift the day from rushed to meaningful.

4. Protect Your Pace

You don’t have to be “on” all day long.

Step outside for a few minutes, take a little walk, or sit with a cup of something warm. Hosting is wonderful, but it can also be draining. I’m an introvert surrounded by people I love, and I’ve learned not to feel guilty about stepping away for a few minutes to regroup. Those tiny resets make the whole day feel lighter.

5. Make Space for Connection

After dinner, skip the pressure of big activities or perfectly planned games.

Put out a puzzle, take a group walk, flip through old photos, or ask everyone to share a favorite memory. The simplest moments often end up becoming the ones we hold onto.

A Quick Note on Deals + Black Friday Specials

Before you dive into the holiday week, here’s a little reminder: several of our November deals are in their final days. If you’ve had your eye on something, this is the last week before those offers wrap up.

And for Black Friday, we’re launching our Give 1, Get 1 Gift Card Special. For every $100 gift card purchased, you’ll receive a $25 digital gift card.

A couple important notes:

• Make sure to add both the $100 card and the $25 card to your cart—the discount will apply automatically.

• The $100 physical card will be available for pickup.

• The $25 digital card will be emailed to the address you enter at checkout, so be sure to use a valid email.

Wishing you a warm, cozy, connected holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving—from our home and farm to yours.

xoxo,

Chelsea