Top Ten Holiday Party Tips for Easy Entertaining

As the worst of the pandemic is over and the world faces global unrest, we see the need more than ever, to connect with people. So, as the holidays arrive, whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Las Posadas, start to plan your party with family and friends.

1. Host a Holiday Dessert Party. It’s easy when you serve all finger-food desserts – cookies, candy canes, peppermint bark, and bite-size cake – no utensils needed. The bar might include a mulled cider or holiday punch. Set everything out in advance and enjoy.

2. At your holiday dinner, place a tree ornament at each person’s place setting. Put their names on it and they’ll really feel special.

3. At the table, a good conversation starter is “What is your favorite holiday memory?”

4. Do you find your guests are always gathering in only the kitchen? Dim the kitchen lights and set up the bar in one room and the food in another room. This encourages your guests to mingle in rooms other than the kitchen.

5. Invite your friends for wine and cheese. Surprise them by taking a photo of their home or from their social media, insert it into a small Lucite frame with a ribbon, and hang it on your holiday tree. What a fun memento for them to take home.

6. Holiday cocktail party chit-chat needn’t be boring or superficial. Start the conversation by asking the person’s favorite holiday tradition or childhood holiday gift.

7. Tie flatware and a napkin with colorful ribbon to make a handy and space-saving bundle at your buffet.

8. Plan a Holiday Caroling Party and really encourage everyone to sing. Serve an easy menu – cup of soup, a six-foot-long deli sandwich, and holiday cookies for dessert.

9. For better mixing at a cocktail party, never have enough chairs. You don’t want all your guests sitting in one big circle.

10. If you know anyone who is going to be alone, invite them to your holiday get-together.

Please remember, the two most important aspects of entertaining at home. First, be sure to make your guests feel welcome and special. Second, be sure to enjoy your own party. Happy Holidays.

Maureen is the author of The Book of Entertaining at Home, a product spokesperson, and lecturer. Follow her on Instagram#Entertain_at_Home_with_Maureen, or email MaureenMole@gmail.com

By Maureen Molé