As Thanksgiving approaches, Hopkinton is buzzing with more than just the anticipation of turkey and pumpkin pies. This year, a new trend is taking hold: remembering to express gratitude to those who make this festive occasion possible.

Each year, countless hosts and hostesses in Hopkinton invest tremendous time and effort into preparing for Thanksgiving. From deep-cleaning their homes to spending hours in the kitchen, their dedication ensures that family and friends can gather and create lasting memories. I saw an uptick in this following the COVID-19 pandemic. Whereas in previous years some families hosted casual Thanksgiving (or Friendsgiving) dinners, coming out of COVID many opted to return to the formal, sit-down dinner.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, because it’s about bringing people together and creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and loved. But it’s also a lot of work, and a little appreciation goes a long way.

The trend I’m seeing this year is to bring a thoughtful gesture to your hosts’ home. A beautiful floral centerpiece or a harvest basket add a special touch to the Thanksgiving table, and they serve as a lasting reminder of gratitude in the days following the holiday. 

The cornucopia, often referred to as the “horn of plenty,” is a popular and traditional centerpiece. Over time, the cornucopia became a widespread symbol of abundance, prosperity, and the harvest. It was typically depicted as a large, horn-shaped container overflowing with produce, flowers, nuts, and other foods. Today we fill cornucopia’s with decorative flowers, reflecting both historical harvest celebrations and a contemporary expression of thankfulness.

Another simple and fun idea is to give a Thanksgiving-themed scented candle to your host. But beyond physical gifts, simple acts of kindness — helping with clean-up, bringing a dish to share, or just saying a heartfelt “thank you” — are equally significant. These gestures acknowledge the hard work and love poured into hosting Thanksgiving.

As families and friends in Hopkinton prepare to gather around the table, the message is clear: Thanksgiving is not just about the feast, it’s also about recognizing and appreciating those who make it possible. In this season of gratitude, a small gesture can mean the world to a gracious host.

Carrie Hurley White is the owner of Sunnyside Gardens in Hopkinton