Thanksgiving has always held a special place in my heart. It’s a time to reflect, connect, and give thanks—not just for what we have, but for the people who make our lives richer. 

This year, Thanksgiving took on a deeper meaning for me as I hosted two very different celebrations: a lively Friendsgiving dinner for 40 guests at the House of Tan, and a smaller, more intimate Thanksgiving gathering at my home with just 10 of my close friends and family. Each event was unique, filled with laughter, love, and a strong sense of community.

A Friendsgiving to Remember: Hosting 40 Guests at the House of Tan

When I envisioned this year’s Friendsgiving, I wanted it to be more than just a dinner. I wanted it to be an experience—a celebration of friendship and creativity. 

The House of Tan, with its warm and spacious setting, became the perfect venue to bring together friends from all walks of life.

Before dinner, we kicked off the evening with two interactive activities that set the tone for the celebration.

The Couples Art Challenge

This wasn’t just any art challenge—it was with paint, brushes, and blank canvases. Couples sat across from each other and were tasked with painting their partner’s portrait. 

What followed was a mix of hilarity and admiration as people revealed their colorful creations. Some were surprisingly detailed, while others veered into abstract comedy. 

The best part was seeing the room filled with laughter as everyone appreciated each other’s efforts.

The Turkey Shake-Off Game

After the art challenge, it was time for something even more dynamic. We had a group of men volunteer to participate in a turkey shake-off game.

Each wore a small box filled with ping-pong balls strapped to their waist, and their mission was to shake out all the balls as quickly as possible. 

Watching their enthusiastic (and often clumsy) attempts had everyone in stitches. It was a hilarious way to break the ice and energize the group before sitting down to dinner.

A Friendsgiving to Remember: Hosting 40 Guests at the House of Tan

This year’s Friendsgiving was particularly special because of our partnership with Wills Farm. 

Every year, we invite Pilar Tan, the founder of the WILL Foundation and her children to join us, and this time was no different. 

Among them was Paul, a young pastry chef in the making, whose talent is as inspiring as his story. Paul baked fresh bread for the event—soft, fragrant loaves that he carefully packed into boxes for each guest to take home. Supporting him felt like a way to celebrate not just Thanksgiving, but the potential in every individual.

The dinner was a true feast. Guests gathered in the private dining room, where the round tables were decorated with earthy tones and a bountiful fall centerpiece. 

The aroma of roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables filled the air, but it was the laughter and conversation that made the night unforgettable.

An Intimate Thanksgiving at Home: 10 Guests, One Beautiful Table

After the buzz and energy of Friendsgiving, I craved a quieter, more personal celebration. Hosting Thanksgiving at home allowed me to create a space where every detail reflected my gratitude for the people who mean the most to me.

Crafting a Warm and Personal Experience

This year’s table was simple yet thoughtful, reflecting the warmth of the season. A soft terracotta runner with frayed edges set a rustic tone, while white plates were topped with matching napkins and adorned with autumn leaves and berries.

Vibrant floral arrangements of orange tulips, yellow roses, dahlias, and greenery brought life to the table, complemented by deep blue glasses and gold flatware.

The dinner itself was intimate and cozy. Without the hustle of a larger gathering, we could linger over the meal, sharing stories and laughs that felt like a warm embrace. These are the moments that remind me why I host: to create a space where people can connect on a deeper level.

Giving Back: The Heart of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving, for me, isn’t just about feasting—it’s about finding ways to give back and make a difference. 

Both gatherings this year were infused with a sense of purpose, thanks to the partnerships and initiatives that have become a cornerstone of my Thanksgiving traditions.

Partnering with Wills Farm

Wills Farm is more than a supplier of fresh produce; it’s a community. Every loaf of bread baked by Paul carried a story of resilience and hope. 

Seeing guests enjoy his creations and hearing them ask about supporting his journey as a pastry chef reminded me of the power of lifting others up.

The WILL Foundation: Stories of Resilience

The WILL Foundation holds a special place in my heart. This year, Ana’s story stood out. Born with PKU (Phenylketonuria), Ana faces daily challenges that most of us can’t imagine, from strict dietary restrictions to educational barriers. Yet, her spirit is unbreakable. Now thriving in a top Catholic school in the Philippines, Ana is a testament to what can happen when a community rallies around someone in need.

Sharing these stories at Thanksgiving isn’t just about raising awareness; it’s about inspiring action. Whether it’s donating to the foundation or simply spreading the word, every effort counts. You can find out on how to support Ana and Will Foundation through their website (www.willfound.org).

Reflecting on Two Celebrations

As I look back on this year’s Thanksgiving, I’m filled with gratitude. The Friendsgiving dinner at the House of Tan brought together a vibrant mix of people, while the intimate gathering at home reminded me of the importance of close connections. 

Both were rooted in the same values: community, creativity, and compassion.

Thanksgiving isn’t just a meal; it’s a chance to celebrate the best of humanity. Whether through laughter, shared bread, or a heartfelt conversation, this holiday reminds us that we’re all connected—and that’s something worth giving thanks for.

One last thing before you go…

If you’re looking to bring the warmth and flavors of the holidays to your own table without the stress of cooking, the House of Tan has you covered! Our holiday take-home packages feature perfectly roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, and oven-baked chicken, paired with delicious side dishes like mashed potatoes, buttered carrots, and fresh farmer’s bread. 

You can even add on charcuterie platters or table centerpieces to make your celebration effortless and memorable. Place your orders now and let us help you create a feast to remember!

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