As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the special dishes that bring our families together and fill our homes with warmth and comfort.
At Serving Those Who Serve, we believe in celebrating the traditions that make each holiday meaningful, especially those that connect us to our past and those we love. In the spirit of gratitude, we’ve asked several members of our team to share their favorite holiday dishes, from time-honored recipes to innovative favorites, and the stories behind them.
Join us as we reflect on the traditions that make this season so special, and perhaps find some inspiration for a new dish to add to your own Thanksgiving table!
Jennifer Meyer, CFP®, ChFEBC℠, AIF®
Financial Planner, RJFS
“I’m a very traditional turkey and stuffing (don’t forget the gravy!) kind of girl. We only eat it once a year, and that makes it feel special every time.”
Dan Sipe, ChFEBC℠
Partner/Co-Founder, STWS
“Cajun Fried Turkey. Pro tip: Inject Cajun butter marinade throughout. It brings a delta flavor pop to a classic dish. Only downside is, there’s less leftovers…”
Matt Kramer, CFP®, ChFEBC℠
Financial Planner, RJFS
“A tradition my mother-in-law—who did not care for turkey—started was to have lobsters for lunch and shrimp curry for dinner. She was the best woman I've ever known, and it reminds me of her warmth and love every year - we miss her dearly but are so happy and proud to continue her traditions.”
Marty Olson
Executive Assistant, RJFS
“My favorite holiday dish is an apple cake I've been baking since I was a teenager. I believe it is best when made with Stayman apples, which are not always easy to find. I just got my supply and will be busy this weekend baking for the upcoming holidays. The house smells wonderful this time of year. Cakes freeze very well.”
Dan, Marty’s brother, added, “That apple cake is FIRE.”
Chelsea English, CFP®, ChFEBC℠, AIF®
Relationship Manager, RJFS
“Mushroom Wellington has become a Thanksgiving tradition in my family. As someone who doesn't eat meat or dairy, I made it so I’d have a festive option, but now it’s the dish everyone asks for—it’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for the holiday table!”
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Gentry Payan Foreman
Client Service Associate, RJFS
“Our favorite local family bakery makes them every year for the holiday season, but we found ourselves craving them year round! So we learned how to make them ourselves! Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are hands down our favorite holiday dessert, but you could venture as far to say they’re our favorite dessert any time of year.”
Katelyn Murray, CFP®, ChFEBC℠
Director of Relationship Management, RJFS
“It’s gotta be the sweet potato casserole. I looked forward to my grandmother’s all year as a kid, and I still make it today based off her handwritten recipe. In our family, recipe books passed down through generations are more than just collections of ingredients—they’re a way of preserving culture and staying connected to our roots. My brother used to be picky about sweet potato casserole, but he loves my version so much that I made him a batch to take with him when he went off to college, so he could have a taste of home. This dish, like so many other holiday favorites, not only brings us together during the holidays, but also honors the legacy of the women who came before us.”
The information has been obtained from sources considered reliable but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Serving Those Who Serve writers and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy suggested. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment or financial decision. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of RJFS, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. **
