Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful – and what better way to show your gratitude for others than by serving them delicious food? Every year, about a week before Thanksgiving, I host a Friendsgiving dinner for all my closest friends to celebrate the things we’re most thankful for. Throughout the years, these parties have taught me a thing or two about hosting, and I’m here to help you out by sharing some helpful Friendsgiving party ideas and tips for your next gathering! But first, let’s talk a little about the holiday itself.

The name Friendsgiving comes from combining “friends” and “Thanksgiving,” and this time provides the same great spirit of everyone’s favorite food holiday, with a guest list of friends, rather than parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins. As we know, friends can be family too, and this holiday allows us to focus on those who may otherwise get left out of the seasonal festivities.

1. Never turn down help.

You’ve sent out the e-vites and the RSVPs are rolling in! As the event approaches, your friends might be reaching out to see if they can help, or asking what to bring to Friendsgiving. If your instinct is to text back that you don’t need help, or “bring whatever you want,” I ask you to reconsider.

To prevent friends from showing up with the same dish, or empty handed (gasp!), I like to make a grocery list of everything that’ll be needed – including drinks, ice, paper plates, cups and anything else you can think of. Whenever someone asks if they can help, I assign an item from the list. So many of us don’t easily accept help when it’s offered, but life is much easier when you do, and your friends will feel like they’ve contributed to the celebration, too.

2. Remember the appetizers.

It’s important to keep guests entertained and engaged while you wait for everyone to arrive. I do this by having an appetizer (or two) ready before anyone knocks on the door – it is a dinner party, after all! Since guests will be arriving with a hearty appetite, a few nibbles and snacks will help keep hunger at bay until it’s time for the main event. I like to keep the appetizers simple by serving items such as dips or soups. Check out this Whipped Ricotta Dip that is smooth, light and sure to be a crowd pleaser.

3. Store-bought is OK!

Who doesn’t love a shortcut? Hosting is a busy job, and sometimes there aren’t enough hours in the day! One of the best ways to stay on top of things is to make easy, semi-homemade recipes. Combining fresh ingredients and store-bought items to make something new can save a lot of time in the kitchen, allowing you more time to enjoy your event. Some of the store-bought items I turn to every year are pie crust, chicken stock and cookie dough.

When you follow these tips, hosting a Friendsgiving dinner party can be fun, easy and memorable. Enjoy the time to give thanks, keep it light, relax and enjoy the company of your friends. For more Friendsgiving meal ideas, check out our full collection of Thanksgiving recipes.