Lets Take The Stress Out Of Hosting Our Friends & Family,
And Get Back To Cherishing The Quality Time Together!
As the Holiday Season approaches, so does the opportunity to gather with family and friends and create warm memories together. However, hosting can often feel overwhelming with all the planning, shopping, cooking, and decorating involved. To help you welcome guests with ease, here’s a guide to help make your holiday hosting stress-free and enjoyable.
1. Start With A Game Plan
Plan Your Menu: Select dishes that you’re comfortable making, and include a mix of crowd-pleasers that require minimal last-minute attention. Think casseroles, roasted veggies, and desserts that can be made in advance.
Create a Timeline: Determine what can be done in advance to save time on the day of the event. For example, set up the dining area the night before and prep ingredients early.
Write a Shopping List: Once you’ve nailed down the menu, make a detailed shopping list. This ensures you’ll have everything you need, preventing last-minute runs to the store.
Prioritize A Welcoming Space
Decorate Simply but Thoughtfully: Choose a few focal points—such as the entryway, dining table, and living room—that will have the most impact. A beautiful centerpiece, string lights, or a holiday wreath can instantly create a festive feel without overloading the space.
Cozy Seating Arrangements: Ensure you have comfortable seating for everyone. Pull in chairs from other rooms if needed, and add throw blankets and cushions for warmth and style.
Set the Mood with Scent and Sound: A lightly-scented candle or simmering pot of cloves, cinnamon, and orange peel on the stove will make your home smell amazing. Pair it with a holiday playlist to set a joyful ambiance.
3. Set Up a Self-Serve
Free yourself from playing bartender by setting up a designated area for drinks. Include a variety of options, like wine, sparkling water, and a pre-made holiday punch, so guests can help themselves.
Add garnishes like lemon slices, berries, and herbs for a festive touch.
4. Prep Guest Essentials in Advance
Stock Up on Bathroom Supplies: Place extra towels, soap, and a candle in the bathroom so guests have everything they need.
Designate a Coat and Bag Area: Set aside space for coats and bags near the entrance to keep things organized and make it easy for guests to find their belongings when they’re ready to leave.
5. Simplify With A Buffet Or Family-style Service
Rather than serving a formal plated meal, opt for a buffet or family-style service. This keeps things casual and allows guests to choose what they’d like. It’s also less work for you and keeps the flow of the evening relaxed.
Label dishes, especially if there are dietary options, so guests know what’s available. room, our team is ready to assist you.
6. Have A Clean Up Plan Ready
Prepare a bin or tray for dirty dishes and encourage guests to help themselves if they want to pitch in. You can even leave out a few extra trash bags to keep clean-up manageable.
If anyone offers to help clean up, don’t hesitate to accept! You’ll wrap things up faster and be able to enjoy more time with your guests.
7. Relax & Enjoy
At the end of the day, hosting is about bringing people together. Don’t worry if things aren’t perfect; guests will remember the warmth of your home and the joy of being together more than any small mishaps.
It's so easy for us to get caught up in the stress of hosting. I find the easiest way to make it less stressful is to plan ahead and slow down. Be sure to do all laundry and set these guest rooms up at least 4-5 days in advance. I personally always fully set the table the night before. This includes laying out the platters and dishes I plan to use for the meal. Put on your favorite playlist and light a few candles. Remember it's about the company not about perfection.
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Till next time!
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