5 Do's and Don'ts for Hosting Holiday Parties

Holiday open houses. Game day gatherings. Family get-togethers. With the holidays on the horizon, you may end up hosting more than a few celebrations. And if you’re a military family settling into a new place after a PCS, you may be eager to make your home feel welcoming this season.

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 prefer a structured approach, begin organizing your to-do list with tasks and timing to keep your preparations on track. 

While building your party planning checklist, take a look at a few “Do’s and Don’ts” we've compiled for entertaining this holiday season. Whether you’re welcoming out-of-town guests, neighbors, or fellow military families, a little preparation goes a long way.

1. Don’t let lingering pet odors be the first thing your guests notice when they arrive.

Do: Welcome your guests with a clean, fresh fragrance. 

A fresh citrus, calming vanilla, or subtle floral scent can transform the atmosphere as soon as guests 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

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, mocktails, or something warm for cold evenings, chill a variety of drinks in an accessible cooler or serving tub and keep hot beverages in an insulated carafe. A dedicated drink station gives guests the freedom to serve themselves—whether they’re grabbing cocoa, cider, or a cold drink—and encourages mingling from the moment they arrive.

Items to include in your beverage station:

• A bottle opener for easy access to beer and soda
• Koozies to keep cold drinks cold
• Cups and mugs for all kinds of beverages, from hot cocoa to water and wine
• Garnishes like fresh mint sprigs, slices of lemon and lime, or olives for martinis and cocktails
• Insulated carafes or dispensers to keep coffee, tea, or hot cider warm
• A small assortment of tea bags (herbal, black, and seasonal flavors)
• Hot chocolate mix or cocoa packets
• Cinnamon sticks, honey, sugar packets, and lemon slices for customizing hot drinks
• Mini marshmallows or flavored whipped cream for a fun finishing touch

By having drinks prepped and ready to go, guests will have something to sip while they wait for the food to arrive—an effortless 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 they lend a helping hand, partygoers are often drawn to the kitchen as the heart of the home. To keep the flow moving and give everyone room, create inviting gathering spots throughout your home to give guests options and keep the kitchen from feeling crowded.

Ideas for perfect hangout spots:

• Arrange small groupings of chairs to encourage conversation
• The patio (weather permitting) with blankets for extra warmth
• Close to the television, where guests can enjoy a game or chat during downtime

Provide 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.

Simple touches like candles, throw blankets, or other pieces of affordable home decor can make these hangout spots warm and welcoming without adding extra stress to your budget.

4. Don’t go beyond your comfort zone and attempt 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. Make it even easier on yourself by taking advantage of prepared 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.