It's Holiday Party Season again and I wanted to share some great tips I found for you to host a stress-free party this year! Plus, There is no need to spend a fortune to decorate for the holidays instead be a little creative and turn your house into a winter wonderland!
Make a List
Perhaps the ultimate way to create a stress-free holiday is to live by a list. Plan ahead, and don't be afraid to delegate. "Know what you're capable and comfortable doing and give other people things to do," says Kathy Gunst, culinary expert and author of Relax, Company's Coming!and co-author of Stonewall Kitchen Harvest. Asking guests to help with a party-related task makes them feel more involved, so never be afraid to ask.
Candy Bar
Who doesn't love candy? Create a "candy store" on an entry or side table with jars in various sizes. Fill them with colorful taffy, chocolates and gummies, and put scoops and small baggies on the table. Plus, candy has a long shelf life (especially individually wrapped kinds), so you can enjoy the look all season long.
Wrap Gifts Early
Use holiday gifts you will be giving this season as décor in your home before you give them. Make them beautiful, and enjoy them yourself for as long as you can." Choose a coordinated group of papers, bows, and ornaments that look great in your home, and stack them throughout your house on side tables.
Dress Up Your Cocktails
Instead of plain ice cubes to keep drinks cool, place grapes and cranberries in your freezer now, so that come party time, you can use a couple of frozen fruits to add a quick and thoughtful touch to a cocktail or sparkling water. The shapes add dimension, color, and something to chew on when that delicious libation is swirling over your tongue.
Deck the Halls
Monica Gullon, former caterer, food editor and frequent entertainer, suggests going with the unexpected. "Bowls of vintage ornaments (from your family's collection or a flea market) grouped by color or glass bowls filled with white twinkle lights can both look striking. Or place a bare branch in a vase and hang small ornaments from it."
As for your exterior, you don't need a house encrusted in twinkle lights to make an impact. Try a single stand-out wreath, potted evergreens, or a big bow on the front door.
Great tips from InStyle & HG TV!
