Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has an insight into how she’ll be preparing for Thanksgiving this year, with Prince Harry, 41, Prince Archie, six, and daughter Princess Lilibet, four – and it turns out the gravy is very, very important
Meghan Markle risks landing herself in hot water with Prince Harry this Thanksgiving if she forgets to prepare one crucial holiday essential for their festive feast.
The 44-year-old Duchess of Sussex will need to rustle up a “rich gravy” for her husband if she wants their celebration on November 27 at their luxurious £24 million Montecito, California, home to run smoothly.
Revealing her secrets for hosting the perfect Thanksgiving, Meghan – who shares son Prince Archie, six, and daughter Princess Lilibet, four, with Harry – told People magazine: “Chop your veggies and herbs in advance to save time on the day, and also for those finishing touches, whether you’re serving homemade or store-bought dishes. Your kids can join in too! They can proudly say they helped.” “
“Top tip on the carrots – keep the tops and blend them with parmesan, olive oil and pine nuts for a refreshing take on pesto to elevate your holiday spread. Served with creamy mashed potatoes, a green salad speckled with flower sprinkles and rich gravy (my husband would never forgive me if I didn’t add that to the table), this is sure to please your entire gathering.”
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The Duchess recommends filling the house with flickering candles, carefully positioning both scented and unscented varieties throughout to create the ultimate warm and relaxing ambience.
Meghan explained: “Light a few candles – choose scented ones to set the mood in the living areas and unscented for the kitchen (in those spaces, let the fragrance of the food shine).”
She also urged hosts to greet arrivals with refreshments and some nibbles before kicking off “a few ice breakers”.
The As Ever lifestyle brand founder said: “Welcome your guests as they arrive with drinks and have some easy appetisers ready to enjoy (think baked Brie with jam, perhaps? ).
“Set out a few ice breakers, like puzzles or board games, to spark conversation and help guests connect.”
The Duchess of Sussex insists catering to guests’ requirements is essential for throwing a brilliant bash.
Meghan – who takes on the role of hostess in her Netflix lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan – added: “Being a great host is all about anticipating your guests’ needs – something I learnt working in restaurants and now love bringing into my own home.
“With a little thoughtful planning, you can make everyone feel comfortable and cared for.”
Her final piece of advice is for hosts not to be afraid to ask for assistance when necessary.
Meghan – who will embrace the festive season in With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration on December 3 – said: “When guests offer to help, say yes! You don’t get the gold star for doing everything. Whether someone wants to bring a pie, pick up a side dish, or provide the ice cream, letting your guests contribute lightens your load and creates a sense of shared celebration.
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“Accepting support isn’t just practical; it makes everyone feel included and valued. When I go to someone’s home, I like to bring a bottle of wine or bubbles or offer practical help like setting the table.
“If you have the time to make a family favourite to share, do it! A sentimental recipe makes you make you more than a part of the meal; it makes you part of the memory.”
She added: “Other ways to be supportive? Help the host out the next morning with an easy breakfast offering. Bring a mason jar of homemade granola (simply toast oats with maple, cinnamon, a dash of ginger, and any other cosy autumnal flavours you love) with a container of yogurt and fruit preserves.
“You’ll make their day!”.
