We’re down to the wire for the holidays, so your social calendar is probably filling up! I love to host friends and family during the season, for everything from a Christmas Eve dinner to a New Year’s brunch. Following on my theme of having a stress-free season, here are my pro tips for making the most of your holiday entertaining!

1. Bring Out the Good Stuff

It always surprises me when people say they’re storing their “good china” for some future event. Why? Every day should be special, so bring out the fancy pieces! It doesn’t matter if you’re having a party for two or for twenty, if you’re hosting a brunch or a buffet. Mix it, match it, and make any event special.

2. Serve Yourself

Do you know why the charcuterie trend is still going strong? Because it’s fun, festive, AND it’s stress free. Don’t make an event super-formal and too involved if you don’t have the time or if you’re already feeling like you have too much going on. Make every single one of your social events a serve-yourself party. Your guests will love the informality, too. After all, they just want to celebrate with YOU.

3. Separate the Bar Area

Another way to make an event stress free is to set up a beverage station that is not in the middle of the food prep or serving area. That allows guests to grab a drink without getting into the middle of all the other activities and causing a traffic jam. And if you do plan to serve cocktails, offer a premixed potion that just needs the alcohol and ice. It makes everything easier!

4. Store Bought Is OK

Over Thanksgiving, I had a friend who just ran out of time. So she bought premade mashed potatoes and added some chives and butter - and everyone loved them. There are so many amazing bakeries and caterers - use whatever you need to make the event fun for you, too. After all, if you’re stressed and intense, your guests won’t be comfortable either!

Have the very very best holiday season you can - and enjoy the time with your friends and family!

Warmly,

Beth