Birthday parties. Game day gatherings. Family get-togethers. The charming layout and tranquil ambience of your house have made it the hottest spot around. With the holidays quickly approaching, you may find yourself hosting several social events.
No need to invite a level of stress! One of the best tips for hosting an event is going through the details ahead of time. If you’re fond of making lists, start tracking what you’ll need to do and when you’ll need to do it.
While building your party planning checklist, include a few “Do’s and Don’ts” for entertaining this holiday season.
1. Don’t let household odors remind your guests that you have pets.
Do: Welcome your guests with a delightful fragrance.
A fresh citrus, calming vanilla, or subtle floral scent can transform the atmosphere as soon as they step through the door.
To keep things simple and safe:
- Light scented candles strategically placed around your home.
- Simmer fragrant wax tarts on the stove or in a wax warmer.
- Diffuse essential oils for a subtle but inviting aroma that lingers without being overwhelming.
A light and fresh fragrance adds to the comfortable atmosphere and encourages visitors to make themselves at home. Keeping in mind guests with allergies, give your house a good cleaning and stash away any pet items you can. This extra step ensures everyone can enjoy the evening without discomfort.
2. Don’t make guests fetch beverages from the rickety spare fridge in the garage.
Do: Set up a well-stocked beverage station that's easy to access.
Whether you’re serving cocktails or mocktails, chill a variety of drinks in an accessible cooler or serving tub. It’s not just about drinks; it’s about giving your guests the freedom to serve themselves and mingle.
Items to include in your beverage station:
- A bottle opener for easy access to beer and soda.
- Koozies to keep their drinks cold.
- Cups for all kinds of beverages, from water to wine.
- Garnishes like fresh mint sprigs, slices of lemon and lime, or olives for martinis.
By having drinks prepped and ready to go, guests will have something to sip while they wait for the food to arrive, making it a great way to encourage mingling from the start.
3. Don’t shoo guests out of the kitchen.
Do: Create natural gathering spots throughout your home.
Photo by vladans from Getty Images via Canva.com
Whether or not they lend a helping hand, party goers are often drawn to the kitchen as the heart of the home. Instead of fighting this, set up other spaces where people can comfortably gather and chat.
Ideas for perfect hangout spots:
- The living areas, with comfy seating and a cozy vibe.
- The patio, weather permitting, with blankets for extra warmth.
- Close to the television where guests can enjoy a game or chat during downtime.
Appeal to your guests with appetizers or snacks in these areas. A cozy candlelit setting and bite-sized snacks placed just out of reach of the kitchen can help steer conversations away from the food prep zone. The layout of your home can work for you, directing guests toward where they can comfortably chat and make connections.
4. Don’t go beyond your comfort zone and try that complicated gourmet recipe from Pinterest.
Do: Stick with what you know and make it easy on yourself.
The holiday season doesn’t need to be a culinary challenge. Trust your instincts and choose a few tried-and-true dishes everyone will enjoy. Focus on serving crowd-pleasing snacks and simple appetizers.
Some party staples to include:
- Cheese and crackers or a charcuterie board (always a classic).
- Fresh fruit and veggie platters for a healthy option.
- Chips and dip for easy comfort food.
- Nuts and dried fruits for a crunchy snack.
Have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can set out food before or as guests arrive. Want to make it even easier? Take advantage of ready-made items from your local grocer or deli.
For a thoughtful touch, ask guests about food allergies ahead of time and offer some accommodating options.
5. Don't stress over dirty dishes.
Do: Empty the dishwasher and clear the sink and surrounding countertops of stray items before guests arrive.
Photo from iStock.com/tacar
If you clear the sink and counters before the party starts, you'll have more "real estate" to work with when dirty dishes start piling up.
To stay ahead of the clean-up:
- Stock the counter with dish soap, a clean sponge, and a pile of kitchen towels.
- Set out plastic wrap, storage containers, or foil for leftover food.
- If a friend offers to help, let them. Having someone pitch in makes clean-up a breeze.
As the host, it might feel strange to delegate cleaning tasks to guests, but the goal is for you to spend less time tidying and more time socializing. By preparing your space ahead of time, you’re giving yourself the gift of more time with your guests, and less time stressing over the small stuff.
By planning ahead and keeping these simple tips in mind, you can keep stress at bay and make your holiday gatherings more enjoyable for everyone. An added bonus is simplifying and focusing on what truly matters: making memories and enjoying the company of those around you. Here’s to hosting the perfect soiree this holiday season!
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