Reece Weaver Is Ever So Thankful

Reece Weaver is counting her blessings. She may be starring as Roxie Hart in Broadway’s Chicago, but the former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is getting ready to return to Alabama and celebrate Thanksgiving with her husband in their new home. As her time in New York City comes to an end, Reece reflects how grateful she is for her family, great memories, and even better food as she prepares to host her first Thanksgiving. 

“Thanksgiving, to me, is about slowing down, taking a moment to reflect on just how much we have to be grateful for, and being surrounded by the people we love most,” says Reece. “It’s a reminder that some of life’s greatest blessings are found in the simplest moments and the time we get to spend together.” 

And this Alabama girl is looking forward to celebrating the holidays in a new way this year.  

“Thanksgiving has looked a little different, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, and while I’m still excited to cheer them on, this Thanksgiving is extra special because it will be my first time hosting and getting to create a traditional Thanksgiving meal in our new home!” Reece says of the home she and her husband, Will Allman, share together in their college town of Tuscaloosa. “I’m especially excited to have the Harry & David Gourmet Turkey Feast help bring our meal together. As much as I love all the little details that go into hosting, I want to be able to slow down, enjoy the day, and spend more time around the table with the people I love rather than spending the entire day in the kitchen. There’s something so special about creating traditions and memories in a home of your own.” 

Speaking of traditions, one of Reece’s favorites is watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with her family. 

“There’s something so nostalgic about it, and it’s one of those little traditions that makes it feel like Thanksgiving,” she says, adding that “time spent together and the memories we make mean more to me than anything.” 

One aspect of this holiday that will for sure be memorable for Reece is the tablescape that will set the stage for her Thanksgiving dinner. As for her inspiration? 

“Of course, lots of florals! I love creating a tablescape that feels warm, inviting, and a little whimsical. This year, I’m having fun intertwining a little Christmas inspiration into Thanksgiving with lots of holiday greens, magnolia leaves, and pretty ribbons,” she says of her décor, which of, course, includes some Royal Riviera pears. “I’m also incorporating Harry & David’s beautiful pears! I love using fresh fruit as part of my table decor, whether it’s tucked in among the florals, styled in a beautiful bowl, or placed at each setting—it adds such a natural touch.” 

Most importantly, Reece loves a table that feels “collected, welcoming, and full of little details that make people feel special when they sit down.” And there’s a good chance Reece’s guests will be sitting down to her favorite: pumpkin pie. 

“A good homemade pumpkin pie will always have my heart! It’s one of those treats you really only get this time of year, and every bite takes me right back to my childhood,” she says. “There’s something about those nostalgic holiday recipes that makes them taste even sweeter.”  

Also on the menu? Reece’s mom’s monkey bread, which is a sweet tradition she would love to carry on in her own home—if she can master the recipe.  

“As far back as I can remember, my mom has made the most delicious cinnamon, brown sugar, ooey-gooey monkey bread every Thanksgiving morning. It’s one of those smells and recipes that immediately feels like home.” 

While everyone loves a heartwarming Thanksgiving meal, it is sharing this special time with the people around the table that Reece cherishes so much. And being able to express her love and appreciation to those close to her is deeply meaningful. 

“My favorite part of Thanksgiving will always be being with my family, but also, showing gratitude,” she says. “I think there is so much power in our words and in the way we serve others. I love finding little ways to let the people in my life know how much they mean to me, whether that’s through a thoughtful word, an encouraging note, or simply showing up for them.”