Helpful Tips for Hosting the Holidays in Your New Home

The most wonderful time of the year is finally here, Christmas!

To help with any hosting anxiety you might experience, we have created a list with several hosting tips and tricks to make your day run smoothly and be enjoyable for you, the host.

Tip 1:  Start planning early. Waiting till the last minute will always cause stress and can make you feel rushed and unprepared.  Stock up on the items you know you will need but will still be good by Christmas.  It is also a good idea to start cleaning out your fridge and pantry to make room for these items because lack of space is never a good thing!

Tip 2:  Spend less on table décor. Less is always more when it comes to decorating, this will also create more space on the table for the important things like the food!

Tip 3: Prep as much as you can beforehand. Prep beforehand as much as possible.  Cut up any vegetables that you may need, put together any casserole dishes ahead of time and wait till the day of to put them in the oven, or even pre make your desserts and just heat them up if needed.

Tip 4:  Put your summer cooler to use. You may need something much larger than just an ice bucket to keep your drinks cold.  Also place your cooler somewhere other than the kitchen, that way you have less people in your way while you try to cook!

Tip 5:  Everyone pitches in this year. If you aren’t comfortable with having your guests cook part of the main meal, you can always assign other items.  Making desserts can be time consuming, and wine is expensive, so passing off those duties will save you time and money!

Tip 6:  Occupy the little ones. Since kids aren’t big on hanging out after they finish their meal, try keeping them seated at their table with an activity.  Supply crayons, a white paper table cloth, and let them color all over it!

Tip 7:  Every guest leaves with a doggy bag. Who doesn’t love leftovers? Have baggies and takeout containers handy so guests can take home individual portions.