November is a busy month for UF students, and many out-of-state students tend to leave for home early. To ensure everyone can attend, it's best to set a date weeks in advance. One effective way to coordinate with a large group is by creating a Facebook group. I know, it sounds like the 2010s, but this way, you can run a poll to see what dates work best, keep guests updated, share mood boards, and more.
Cooking a full Friendsgiving spread is too much for one person—especially on a college budget. To make it manageable, send out a shared Google Sheet sign-up a couple of weeks in advance, where everyone can add their name and what they plan to bring. I also suggest including a tab where guests can indicate if they'll need to use your oven the day of. This way, you can prepare a baking schedule in advance to keep things organized, ensuring dishes are warmed on time so everyone can enjoy a hot meal.
For budget-friendly shopping, consider affordable grocery options in Butler Plaza like Aldi, Trader Joe's, and Walmart. Aldi, in particular, is known for its low prices on seasonal produce and pantry staples, while Trader Joe's offers unique, pre-made options that can save you time and effort.
A Friendsgiving should be a group effort, so enlist help from friends and roommates with specific roles like setting the table, decorating, cleaning up, or even being the event DJ. When it comes to planning the menu, I recommend sourcing budget-friendly recipes from sites like Budget Bytes, which has a whole section dedicated to affordable Thanksgiving dishes. This way, you can keep costs down while still serving a memorable meal everyone will love!
Decorate UF Apartment on a Budget
Gainesville has no shortage of places to find budget-friendly decor for your UF apartment. Some of my favorite staple glasses and serving dishes have come from Goodwill. For candles and other fall trinkets, you can't go wrong with a trip to Five Below for affordable options that add a cozy touch. As you decorate, consider seating arrangements—your furnished apartment may not have enough seating for all your guests. Reach out to friends for folding tables and chairs to ensure everyone has a comfortable place at the table.
Hosting a Friendsgiving doesn't have to be expensive or stressful. With a bit of planning, some affordable shopping trips, and help from friends, you can create a warm, inviting celebration that everyone will remember. Happy Friendsgiving!