Plan, plan, plan. Plot out your menu, considering items you want to cook from scratch and what you'll buy store-made. Go to the grocery–armed with a list of everything you'll need–at least a week ahead of the big day. Prepare side dishes and desserts ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze as necessary.

Divide and conquer. If you're having lots of family and friends over for Thanksgiving dinner, make it a potluck. Cook the turkey yourself and ask each person attending to bring a side dish or dessert.

Relax! You and your guests will enjoy themselves much more if you keep a cheerful attitude and sense of humor. After all, some of the best memories come from the unexpected.