Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Serving Greater Cincinnati

Hosting Checklist: Everything You Need to Whip up a Dreamy Holiday Dinner

If your culinary expertise has been pegged for this year’s holiday gathering, you might be wondering how you’ll come up with a picture-perfect table setting that lives up to what’s sure to be a delicious meal.

You can stop wondering and start shopping, because Ohio Valley Goodwill has everything you need to bring warm holiday vibes to your table!

Linens

It’s a good idea to start your table vision with the linens. Will you want a tablecloth or a runner for your table? Because this layer acts as the base for your display, you’ll likely want to keep it simple and neutral. Opt for muted or jewel-toned holiday colors, maybe with texture, but little pattern.

Next, consider cloth napkins to take your table to the next level. Cloth napkins can be neutral or more of a statement piece. You decide! But you might also want to look for napkin rings for a finishing touch. Cloth napkins are classy and sustainable “” a win-win!

Serving Dishes & Charger Plates

Thrifting is a cinch for statement pieces such as serving dishes. Once you’ve chosen your theme or color scheme, look for platters or large bowls that complete your look. Keep in mind, it’s a good idea to have a menu already pulled together before you shop for serving dishes. This way, you’ll know what types and sizes of dishes you’ll need.

Charger plates are also a simple way to make a table look finished. Neutral colors set under the dinner plate add a polished, layered look to wow your guests!

Drinkware

If you’re hosting a cocktail hour before your holiday dinner (or even if you’re not!), vintage drinkware is the key to elegance! It’s easy to find unique glassware at a Goodwill thrift store that will sparkle on your dinner table without breaking the bank.

Vases from Goodwill

Centerpieces

Last, but certainly not least, create a beautiful thrifted centerpiece! Acting as the crown jewel of your holiday table, the right centerpiece sets the mood for the entire evening. Shop at Goodwill for affordable vases, candleholders, lanterns, trays, mirrors, baskets, and more! They can all be used to craft something truly impressive.

Accent your thrifted finds with candles, fresh flowers, cranberries, greenery (the list goes on!) and you’ll have an eye-catching focal point for your special meal.

Shop and Save this Holiday Season at Goodwill!

Goodwill's Cycle of Success
Goodwill’s Cycle of Success

The holidays should sparkle with remarkable memories made with family and friends, but creating those memories shouldn’t cost a lot. When you choose Goodwill for your holiday hosting needs, you can save big, shop sustainably, and help people in your community find jobs. It’s all a part of Goodwill’s cycle of success!

Ready to start shopping? With a simple online search, you can find the Ohio Valley Goodwill thrift stores near you. Cheers to a delicious and thrifty meal with those you love!