Once you’ve prepared your scaled-down Thanksgiving spread for your household and selected the wine (our ultimate Thanksgiving wine guide can help you choose the best ones), dial into the virtual dinner and toast to your friends and family. Express a little gratitude (and perhaps start a new Thanksgiving tradition) with these funny, sincere, and a little off-the-wall toast ideas. Plus, get our editor-backed tips for getting into the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

Celebrate Your Guests

“There may be better people in this world… but I don’t know ’em!” — Katy Kiick Condon, senior home editor, Better Homes and Gardens

Keep it Short and Sweet

“Never done a toast in my life, usually just ‘food’s ready!’” — Sheena Chihak, senior food editor, BHG.com

Stick to Tradition

“I fall back on an Irish classic that father’s parents used at any special meal: ‘May the roof above you never fall in, And those gathered beneath it never fall out. Here’s to health, peace, and prosperity.’ At the end of a meal—and if Sambuca and whole coffee beans are available—I borrow from my mom’s Italian side, pour some shots, and top each with three beans. ‘To health, happiness, and prosperity. Salut!’ You need no further words.” — Brian Kramer, senior editor, Better Homes & Gardens Do It Yourself

Look Ahead

“May the best of your past be the worst of your future.” — Caitlin Sole, senior associate home editor, BHG.com

Give Thanks

“Our Thanksgivings are different every year, depending on what everyone is doing, who is going to what, etc. But no matter where everyone is we always give thanks for every member, call out any new members, and pray for those who are no longer with us. We used to have a tradition when my kids were younger to go help deliver meals to those who could not get out; we would do this before our meal. I think this made giving thanks even more meaningful.” — Colleen Weeden, senior test kitchen brand manager, Meredith Corporation

Recognize Your Friends

“May your home always be too small to hold all your friends.” — Emily VanSchmus, editorial associate, BHG.com

Share the Love

“There are good ships and wood ships, The ships that sail the sea. But the best ships are friendships. And may they always be.” — Sarah Martens, holidays and entertaining editor, BHG.com

Share Why Your Thankful

“Instead of a toast, my husband’s niece has us each write down three things we’re thankful for and goes around the table to have us read them!” — Natalie Dayton, senior associate editor, Better Homes & Gardens Do It Yourself