Thanksgiving in RVA: Your Local Guide to a Perfect Holiday Gathering

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and local businesses are here to help you prepare. Whether you’re looking to deck out your dining room, prep (or source) the perfect menu, or find the perfect outfit for the day, RVA has all you need. Here’s a guide to local spots to help your Thanksgiving go smoothly.

Set the Table

Creating a warm, inviting atmosphere is key for any Thanksgiving gathering, and Richmond’s local shops have all you need to set the scene beautifully. While you’re setting the scene, don’t forget the music. Sarah Nicholas, owner of Ladles & Linens, suggests creating a fun music playlist when hosting.

• Strange’s Florist: Bring elegance to your table with a custom-made Thanksgiving centerpiece from Strange’s. With their seasonal arrangements and fresh blooms, your table will be as stunning as the feast you’re serving.
• Puritan Cleaners: Don’t stress about wrinkled linens. Let Puritan Cleaners take care of pressing your table linens to perfection so your dining setup looks flawless.
• LaDiff: Thinking of upgrading your dining room set? LaDiff offers an incredible selection of modern, stylish dining tables and chairs that are perfect for family gatherings. Their unique designs will make your dining room the place everyone wants to gather.
• Twig & Fraiche: For those finishing touches, check out Twig and Fraiche for seasonal décor or timeless classics to complete your table. From candle holders to unique accent pieces, these shops have everything to make your home feel festive and cozy. They are also great spots to pick up a hostess gift!

Stock Your Kitchen and Set the Menu

Whether you’re looking for the best kitchen accessories or a ready-to-go meal, RVA’s local shops have you covered. When it comes to menu planning, Sarah suggests that you “keep it simple with foods that take a few steps or even a few ingredients.  Big flavors, big impact!  Think simple crostini piled with bold cheeses and drizzles of honey.”

• Ladles & Linens: Need a new roasting pan or some top-notch kitchen tools? Ladles & Linens has all the kitchen accessories you’ll need to cook up the perfect Thanksgiving feast.
• Ukrop’s: Want to enjoy Thanksgiving without spending all day in the kitchen? Ukrop’s offers a fully prepared Thanksgiving dinner, ready to pop in the oven. Let them handle the cooking so you can focus on spending quality time with your loved ones.
• Proper Pie: No Thanksgiving meal is complete without pie, and Proper Pie has you covered. Thanksgiving orders are live through Sunday—but hurry, they sell out fast!

Toast with Local Sips

Pair your Thanksgiving meal with the perfect beverages from local purveyors. “Embrace the bar cart and let folks mix their own drinks!  Use fun mixers, sodas, and tonic. Always have liquor staples. Add flair with cocktail napkins. It takes some pressure off you and promotes fun conversations,” says Sarah.

• Second Bottle Wine Shop: For a curated selection of wines, head to Second Bottle Wine Shop. Their knowledgeable staff can help you pick wines that pair perfectly with your Thanksgiving menu.
• Belle Isle Craft Spirits: Kick your holiday up a notch with cocktails crafted from Belle Isle’s locally-made moonshine. From spiced cocktails to cozy after-dinner sips, their spirits add a unique RVA twist to any Thanksgiving gathering.

The Perfect Fall ‘Fit

Looking for the perfect outfit for Thanksgiving dinner? Richmond’s local boutiques have style options for everyone.

• Franco’s Fine Clothier: For those aiming for a refined, polished look, Franco’s Fine Clothier offers a selection of stylish attire from polo shirts to sport coats. Whether you’re hosting or attending, they’ll have you looking your best.
• Erma Jean: Need a chic, trendy outfit for Thanksgiving? Erma Jean has a beautiful selection of women’s clothing that’s ideal for the occasion, combining style with comfort for a look that’s effortlessly elegant.