The holidays are a time where a lot of us get together. We received some nice tableware from our wedding registry, and I don’t know about you, but even one guest is reasoning enough for me to bring them out. The holidays are my time to shine, but I don’t want to be stressed doing it. No matter the occasion, from overnight guests to drinks with friends, these 5 tips will help you take the stress out of holiday hosting!
1. Have A Signature Drink
I have said this a million times but starting the event with a signature drink really sets the tone. It allows you to welcome everyone and catch up a bit before people are asking if you have more mixers. Growing up, my parents always kept a full bar with the favorites of their most frequent guests. We have carried on that tradition and usually have a self-serve bar, with the basics set up when we have people over, but my drinks are always a hit.
2. Plan Your Menu In Advance
Do you want to know why I am not stressed in the week leading up to an event? I plan ahead. Even for informal gatherings, if I know even a few days in advance, I pop open my notes app and develop a plan. I come up with a simple menu, write out my grocery list, and see what I already have on hand. Having a plan, ensures I am not making last-minute store runs, or setting up an incomplete spread.
3. Stick To What You Know
Now I may try a new appetizer or dessert in addition to the other things I am serving, but this is not the time to try a bunch of new things. If you want to ensure you will be stressed out, try to make a new dish to serve to guests. In addition to wondering if it will be tasty, you may misjudge the time to prepare it, how to serve it, etc. Stick to what you know so that’s one less thing you have to worry about.
4. The Little Things Make A Difference
Welcome baskets, extra blankets, tea vs. coffee. The small touches say I want you to feel welcome while in my home. Not having to search for extra blankets or freeze while staying over at someone’s house are things people remember. I even do my best to have a certain brand of water that I know my sister loves. That’s a bit much, but I remember how good it felt when my parents bought the kind of creamer I like while visiting them one year over the holidays. It really made me feel special and like they were looking forward to hosting me.
5. Keep Snacks On Deck
No matter how much you plan, people will have different hunger levels. Keeping a few snacks in the pantry or ready-to-eat items in the fridge will keep the stress low for everyone. They won’t be hovering over you while you are preparing food or making you feel like you have to be serving them between your planned meals. Have a few snacks on deck and let them know they can help themselves!
Bonus Tip
Make sure your dishwasher is empty before your guests arrive or each morning, so you can load it up and run it before bed!
Holiday hosting does not have to be stressful. A little prep and planning will truly make all the difference. Now go invite your homegirl and her family over to test out your hosting skills! Don’t forget to hit up the blog to serve one of my cocktials as your signature drink to welcome them in!
XOXO, Laya
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