nonsense with natalie : november edit
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real talk: hosting is a whole production — groceries, guests, oven timers, and a thousand tiny details nobody sees. this year, i wanted to share a few things that make the day smoother and the table prettier without spending a fortune. everything here is grouped by price so you can mix and match what fits your vibe. i’ve also included some of my favorite holiday hacks to make hosting easier (because i hate doing the most while hosting - i also want to enjoy time with my guests instead of being locked away in the kitchen all day)
under $50 - small things that make a big difference
linen napkin set – instantly makes takeout or homemade look fancy.
scented candle, santal (and made in the US) – sets the vibe before guests even walk in.
oven-safe meat thermometer – no more guessing if the turkey’s done. (if you’re willing to splurge a bit more than the $50, i have this one. i’m obsessed.)
mini label maker – for leftovers, pantry bins, or that one cousin who “forgets” what’s theirs.
gold place card holders – tiny detail, big upgrade.
pumpkin serving bowl – festive without being tacky. (comes in 2 colors - white + orange)
under $100 - practical upgrades (totally worth it)
acacia wood carving board – looks beautiful, actually works.
electric wine opener – saves your wrist and your vibe.
hurricane candle holders – simple, modern, and never out of season. (also comes in quantity 3 for under $50)
24-piece dinnerware set – inexpensive upgrade, lasts all year long.
set of 3 ceramic baking dishes – oven to table, no shame in the shortcut. (comes in 4 colors)
friendsgiving - showing up right when you’re not hosting
mini charcuterie boxes – portable/travel friendly & small enough to assemble in advance easily.
insulated wine carrier – keeps your bottle cold en route.
glass storage containers – for leftovers that don’t leak or embarrass you.
chatbox – post-dinner fun that isn’t awkward small talk - includes 200 conversation starter cards
gratitude notepad set – thoughtful host gift that doesn’t scream “I panicked at Target.”
hosting hacks - you don’t have to do the most to have a great holiday
turkey baking bags – my secret weapon. turkey cooks faster, stays juicy, zero mess.
heavy-duty disposable roasting pans – never wash a crusty pan again.
13-gallon trash bags – you’ll thank yourself halfway through cleanup (and you can never have too many of these around the holidays)
simplehuman trash can – if you’re hosting, one that actually closes is underrated. (i’m obsessed with mine - makes even the trash look chic) here are the liners that fit in the pocket for easy dispensing as well (they’re pretty strong)
reusable food containers with lids – for sending leftovers home neatly.
power strip w/5-ft cord + USB outlet – because someone always needs to plug in something.
fabric stain remover pen – self-explanatory if you know, you know.
extras - small touches that change the whole vibe
thanksgiving playlist (a spotify playlist with a mix of chill soul, r&b and classics that make the day feel easier.)
create a "prep checklist” for yourself so you know what to do when (i find this especially helpful when it comes to the oven timing)
gratitude jar/notebook - my mom has a little notebook she passes around so everyone can say what they’re grateful for & we can read what people have written in the past. it’s especially meaningful now that my grandparents are no longer with us.
thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a full production to feel special. sometimes it’s just about making things a little easier on yourself and a little nicer for everyone else. if you end up grabbing anything from this list, tag me on IG — i love seeing how people make these ideas their own. happy thanksgiving, and may your coffee stay hot, your home full of joy (+ drama free) and your cleanup stay quick. 🖤
💌 ps — want more like this?
this guide is part of a monthly series i send out with practical finds, easy upgrades, and small things that make life run smoother. if you liked this one, you can subscribe to get the next one straight to your inbox — no spam, just real-life ideas that actually help.
