The Ultimate Holiday Hosting Guide

Are you the unlikely host? The one who somehow got put in charge of getting everyone together this holiday season? You’re starting to feel the pressure. Tons of people with requests, thoughts, opinions, and needs are all coming to your house. How are you going to ensure that everyone has a good time? You can’t, but you’re going to do amazing job and I’m sure everyone will be well fed. After all, that’s half the battle.

Today, I have compiled my best tips for holiday entertaining for the most novice and experienced of hosts. Put your mind at ease and enjoy time with your loved ones.

The Rules of Preparation

For Guests

Whether your overnight guest or guests are planned or unplanned, you should be thinking ahead. Source the stolen hotel toiletries, the bottle of ibuprofen, the spare sheets. You’ll thank your future self later for it. Instead of stressing over a spotless powder room, spend that time making sure you’ve got some overnight essentials.

For Food & Drink

Stock the pantry. Think spices, fridge staples, snacks, coffee. Batch make cocktails ahead of time. Marinate meat the day before. Have a little something prepared for the next morning like bars or cinnamon rolls. Prepare anything to put your mind at ease, so you can focus on your guests and having a good time. There is nothing worse than a last minute run to the store.

The Rules of Dinnerware

Under 10 Guests

Bring out the fancy casserole dishes, silverware, and linen napkins.

Over 10 Guests

This is the time for foil, paper, and other disposables.

The Rules of Appetizers

*Source: Meredith of Wishbone Kitchen

Can be served cold or room temperature.

Must be a finger food.

Should be substantial in flavor, but not filling.

The Rules of Help

Know when to kick people out of the kitchen, and know when to let them stir the sauce.

Always let a guest help with dishes or clean up.

Let a guest bring a dish, but only in a disposable container. (Their contribution shouldn’t create more work for you.)