Tuesday's Tip of the Day: Thanksgiving Shopping List
Before you head to the store this Thanksgiving, I hope that you take a minute to hear me out on the importance of a shopping list. Thanksgiving will no doubt need a few trips to the store. There is the turkey, spices, canned pumpkin, flowers, candles, and cranberries. There is also the issue of storing, trunk space and the ability to only push 1 shopping cart at a time. However simple this may seem, going to the store with a list in hand will keep you on track and make shopping that much quicker (and fun!). Here is how a shopping list can help:
1. Organized: Create a few shopping lists and date them. Use your menu to help build your list. For example, don’t add the turkey and flowers to your shopping list until the day before. Maybe you go once a week starting this week. Week 1 can include dry goods: canned pumpkin, spices, wine, apple cider, mulling spices, flour, sugar, etc. Week 2 can include: potatoes, dairy, coffee, sweet potatoes, eggs, butter, etc. And week 3 can include: flowers, turkey, cranberries, bread for stuffing, rolls, pies (if not making your own), etc. This way, each load is more manageable and gives you time to make room in your pantry before the next addition.
2. Save Time: By going to the store with a list, you know exactly what you need and can go straight there. Organize your shopping list according to your store. You hopefully have a good lay-of-the-land at your local store, but if not, take a stroll before you start shopping so you do. I like to start on one end and work my way to the other. I always like to start with the dry goods as they are shelf stable and can often be heavier. Then, work your way to produce, dairy and then protein.
3. Save Money: A shopping list will keep you focused on exactly what you need and sway you from making impulse purchases, which at the end of the day, you don’t really need.
4. Fewer Trips: Bring a pen and as you go, cross things off. This way, you won’t get home and realize you forgot the eggs! “If only I would have written that down!”
5. Less Stress: Shopping around the holidays can be stressful. There is parking, long lines, crowded aisles, and lots of end-caps with advertisements trying their best to entice us with something we don’t need. Having a list streamlines the entire experience keeping you focused and on point. I can’t help with the parking situation, but I can help with a mission and that’s a shopping list, pen and a little patience!
Shopping can be daunting but by heading to the store with a plan, you take control of the situation. Now with that, grab a pen and paper and start your list. After all, your less than 3 weeks away from T-Day!
Cheers to starting a new tradition around the table together!
Sincerely,
Tiffany Lewis
Founder and true believer in the power of bringing people around The Table Together!