As any host knows, the holidays can be one of the most stressful times of the year. On top of finding the perfect present for everyone on your list, there’s the added pressure of throwing a party your guests will rave about for Christmases to come. Whether you’re having an intimate get-together, or a huge holiday bash, don’t sweat hosting this season; read on for tips and tricks that’ll help make entertaining easy.
If Hosting a Small Soirée: Encourage Conversation with Your Furniture Arrangement
Most living rooms are designed around the television, but you don’t want your guests reaching for the remote while you’re entertaining. Rearrange your furniture to encourage conversation; depending on the size and shape of your room, you could group chairs inward toward a small table, or arrange additional seating — like ottomans, or a bench — opposite the sofa.
If Hosting a Big Bash: Free Up Flat Surfaces
If you’re hosting a party where there will be more people than you have chairs, be sure to take advantage of the flat surfaces in your home, repurposing pieces from other rooms if need be. Ottomans, poufs, stools, and even sturdy side tables can double up as extra seating, while consoles, buffets, and coffee tables cleared of displays can be utilized as extra serving stations or spaces to set down drinks and plates.
If Hosting a Small Soirée: Focus Your Party Around One Area of the Home
If you’re prepping for an intimate get-together, focus your party around one common area of the home so that guests will know that’s where they should stay and mingle. Putting up decorations and setting out snacks is a great way to let guests know where the party is.
If Hosting a Big Bash: Set Up Different Entertainment Zones
The kitchen is a natural gathering hub, but it can quickly become crowded, especially in smaller spaces. Encourage guests to move around and mingle in your designated entertainment zones, with multiple seating areas and small food stations in each room.
If Hosting a Small Soirée: Don’t Be Afraid to Deck the Halls
If you’ve got space to spare, enhance the party vibes by making your home feel as festive as possible. From adorning the fireplace mantel with garland to creating beautiful holiday vignettes, filling your home with holiday decor is sure to make your guests feel merry.
If Hosting a Big Bash: Keep Decor at a Minimum, and Focus on a Theme Instead
If space is limited, keep holiday decor to a minimum and boost your home’s festive vibe using essential party pieces instead. Choose a theme or color scheme for items such as candles, napkins, tablecloths, and charger plates so that your home still feels fun and festive without sacrificing space for larger decor pieces.
If Hosting a Small Soirée: Whip Up Your Signature Drink or Dish
Preparing a signature drink or dish is easier to do for smaller groups, and is one of the best ways to let your guests know you’ve been thinking about them. Adding a sprig of greenery, berries, or a flower head is a great way to make a signature drink feel more festive.
If Hosting a Big Bash: Order In – And Label Everything
Cooking for large groups can be stressful and time-consuming, so don’t be afraid to order in crowd-pleasing foods. For snack foods and charcuterie boards, which include cheeses, jams, and meats, label everything so that guests — especially those with allergies — know what’s on the platter. Chalkboard stakes are inexpensive and reusable, and are a great special touch.
For more great holiday inspiration, be sure to read the Christmas classics you need on vinyl and the best gifts for everyone on your wish list.