- Kelseycharmayne
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, give thanks, and gather with the people who matter most. But what if you could add a second celebration—one filled with laughter, comfort food, and your chosen family? Friendsgiving is the perfect way to do just that.
Whether you're hosting for the first time or you're the go-to party planner in your circle, here’s how to plan the best Friendsgiving this November—complete with food, fun, and a whole lot of gratitude.
📝 Step 1: Set the Date Early for Friendsgiving
Since most people travel for Thanksgiving Day, try hosting Friendsgiving a week or two before the holiday. Send out invites (even a simple group text works!) and ask your friends to RSVP early so you can plan accordingly.
🏡 Step 2: Choose a Cozy Space
You don’t need a perfect home—just one with room for everyone to gather. Rearrange furniture, pull out folding chairs, and create a warm vibe with candles, string lights, and a few festive touches like pumpkins or mini wreaths.
🥘 Step 3: Potluck Style = Less Stress
Friendsgiving is all about sharing, so make it potluck-style!
Assign dishes by category: appetizers, sides, desserts, drinks.
Keep a list to avoid six mashed potatoes and no pie (though… is that a bad thing?).
Pro tip: Have some to-go containers ready for leftovers!
🥂 Step 4: Don’t Forget the Drinks & Games
Signature cocktails, mocktails, or cider stations can elevate your gathering to the next level. To wind down the night, add a few board games, a “What Are You Thankful For” jar, or a cozy movie.
📸 Step 5: Capture the Magic
These moments matter—shared laughter, clinking glasses, inside jokes, and spontaneous dance parties. Don’t forget to snap some candid shots (or, better yet, hire a photographer to come by for 30 minutes and capture your crew in action). The memories will last far longer than the leftovers.
💡 Bonus Ideas for Extra Charm
Friendsgiving Playlist: Curate a mix of cozy acoustic hits, feel-good throwbacks, and holiday vibes.
Gratitude Cards: Have everyone write something kind about someone else at the table.
Photo Booth Corner: Grab a few props and let everyone be goofy for the 'gram.
Final Thoughts
Friendsgiving is more than just another meal—it’s a beautiful reminder that family isn’t always blood. Love, laughter, support, and choosing to show up for each other. So this year, gather your favorite people, eat your favorite foods, and make memories you’ll cherish forever.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Kelsey—the heart behind Kelseycharmayne Photography, LLC. Based in Livonia, Michigan, I specialize in capturing real, meaningful moments for families, couples, and friends. Whether it’s fall family sessions, Friendsgiving gatherings, or cozy in-home photoshoots, I’m here to preserve the memories you never want to forget.
📍 Livonia, MI
📞 734-521-7535
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