HBCU Heritage: How to Host a Friendsgiving

The holiday season is here and it also coincides with the HBCU tailgating season. Why not experience the best of both worlds with an HBCU Friendsgiving where you enjoy a great meal and networking with your fellow HBCU alum. To help you plan your Friendsgiving on the fly, we have tips for networking during the holiday season along with inspiration for pulling your HBCU Friendsgiving together.

Welcome Guest on Front Porch with Appetizers: Nothing says welcome like a plate of biscuits or apple pie. I added this front porch wreath as a truly southern welcome for my guests.

HBCU Tablescape: I love decorating a fall tablescape, especially for Thanksgiving. Even when I host a Friendsgiving, I truly enjoy adding fall decor to my home. I adore these salt and pepper shakers and holiday table napkins. They paired perfectly with some of my family heirlooms and pieces I collected through my favorite antique shops.

HBCU Inspired Appetizer Bar: An appetizer bar is a great way to ensure your table has enough elbow room and another networking space for your guests. To increase networking have a place for guests to place their business cards as well as leave tips for HBCU networking. Who doesn’t love networking while eating their favorite holiday sides? I like to cheat and start with a little pecan pie because sweets make for better conversation, right?

Networking Table Party Favors: Develop unique office and career inspired party favors. I used my favorite networking tips as a part of my party favors for my guests. Looking to host your own Friendsgiving or network this holiday season? My tips for HBCU networking include

Be sure to explore career options for HBCU students and alum with Cracker Barrel at https://crackerbarrel.com/careers/diversity-and-inclusion

Career Planning/Fall Drink Station: What holiday season is complete without a drink station. I love creating simple mocktails for guests during the holidays using my favorite sodas.

HBCU Thanksgiving Cards with Career Well Wishes: Stationery always makes a table and an event better. HBCU Friendsgiving is a perfect time to inspire your guests to pursue their goals for 2020. What are some of your goals for the New Year?

Stationery is a serious tradition in the South and a great way to showcase your personality to your guests as you network.

Friendsgiving Menu:

Above all else, an HBCU Friendsgiving needs good food. From turnips to pinto beans and even catfish, have fun with your Friendsgiving menu.

This menu is full of southern classics including country ham, buttermilk biscuits and more. What are some southern staples that you must have on your holiday table?