Holiday Entertaining

Entertaining during the holidays can be stressful, but it can also be very rewarding. Seeing all your friends or family members gathered around your table to celebrate the holidays can be a great sight. Of course, this sight can’t come without a good amount of work on your part. That’s why it’s important to make a plan for your holiday events.

First, be sure you have a firm guest list. While it’s OK for one or two people to show up or cancel at the last minute, you need a good idea of just how many people to expect. This is especially true if you’re cooking a full meal. If you don’t have any idea of how many people are coming, you have no way of knowing how much food to buy. Ask your invited guests to let you know if they are coming a week or so before the event. That way, you have enough time to purchase food and other items. Also, make food ahead of time if you can. Desserts like cookies or pie can be made the day before, as can some cold appetizers.

Don’t wait until the last minute to clean your house. In fact, if you can, clean a little bit each day. While you’ll still need to do some sweeping and a little straightening up the day of the event, you won’t have to do anything major.

Another thing to do ahead of time is to order flowers for your table. Selecting a great arrangement for your centerpiece or for your mantle can add a lot to your holiday décor. However, the holidays are one of the busiest times for florists, so if you’re going to order an arrangement, be sure to do so in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute or you may not be able to get the arrangement you want, especially if you’re looking for traditional holiday arrangements like poinsettias.

Finally, remember not to stress too much over the event. You’re entertaining some of your closest friends or your family, and it should be an enjoyable experience. To that end, try not to wear yourself out. If you’re exhausted from cooking and cleaning, you won’t have any fun at your own party. Remember to ask your spouse and even your children to help you, or ask a friend or relative to co-host the holiday festivities.