Let's Prep for the Holidays!

CLEAR THE CLUTTER BEFORE HOLIDAY HOSTING

It should go without saying, but with visitors coming in for a few nights or an impromptu dinner extravaganza, your space needs top-to-bottom cleaning to make the best impression. Start de-cluttering weeks early so it does not seem so overwhelming. Pay special attention to the bathrooms, set up your holiday décor, fresh hand towels and a scent that is never-ending! When my home is clean and decked out in holiday décor in advance, I feel like I can tackle anything.   Setting a space up for your visitors Your visitors will appreciate having a location to unload their belongings, especially if they stay for more than a couple of nights. Phone chargers/areas are crucial these days, so make sure there is an accessible method for those visiting to plug in their electronic devices.

THE LITTLE DETAILS MATTER

Fresh flowers and a carafe of drinking water on display (with sexy glasses), a scented candle in the entryway or bathroom (caution: don’t overdo it on the scented candles), and peaceful music playing on the low will make the right warm holiday impression.   Prepare things that your visitors can help themselves to, such as a charcuterie board of healthy goodies, appetizers from your local eatery, stuffed pastries in a warming dish, trays of nuts, dry goods and various sauces will keep everyone satisfied. Save the desert trays for later in the evening to give your guest a quick energy boost before they hit the road.

You know it is unnecessary to make everything from scratch, it’s your holiday too remember, forget about all that work from the past!   You may be searching for the latest signature drink, but wait, think about taking your party to a lux level with a self-serve cocktail maker. Set up a special bar area for your guests to enjoy making and serving their own drinks for an added stress-reliever. Don’t worry, there are over 40 flavors, so a few ice buckets and sexy holiday drinkware will have your guest talking about which flavors are best!

For a few hearty laughs, set up a “Holiday Guess Who” board where all visitors can pin up their favorite holiday photo from when they were kids.   And lastly, Party for a good cause Instead of exchanging gift this year, keep the Christmas spirit front and center by turning your gathering into a donation event. Ask your guests to bring in an item for a local charity, animal shelter, food pantry or a local family in need. It’s a wonderful way to add to the warmth and joy of the season. Sounds like an affair to remember!

Happy Holidays!!  Be safe and kind to one another.