As the holiday season approaches and the festive spirit is in the air, entertainment is top of mind. And here, we strongly believe that getting together can not only be fun, but it can also be surprisingly easy. Of course, every host has common concerns. How do you feed a lot of people and make sure the food stays hot when it arrives at the table? How can you make everyone happy while also allowing yourself to enjoy a little (or a lot)? So how on earth do you accomplish everything on a budget?
6 common holiday hosting hurdles and how to solve them
With the biggest entertainment season of the year upon us, we want to clear up all the common holiday hosting hurdles and hopefully convince you to give it a try. Entertainment doesn’t have to be scary. (It can and should be fun.) Especially if you’re a perfectionist, this is for you.
too expensive
That may be true, but only if you let it be. I write this as a habitual offender of over ordering for a table or party. We want everyone to have choices and feel that their tastes and preferences are taken into account. Additionally, while I always want to buy or offer the “best”, that’s subjective and what I’m actually happy with is just my own taste.
When it comes to food and drinks, keep it simple and don’t overdo it. Focus on a few key items that you offer, share them with your guests, and encourage them to bring something in addition to what you’re offering if they wish.
Keep in mind that just because you’re hosting in your own home (for whatever reason) doesn’t mean you have to pay all the fees. Every year on Independence Day, I invite friends and their families to watch fireworks and go swimming. We go all out, grill during the day, order pizza at night, drink every drink imaginable, and have a great time. And every time, at the end of the night, I get a Venmo from friends who want to participate, even if it’s just a reward for me. I never expected it since it’s a tradition I love, but it’s a nice gesture. If everyone would like to provide food and drinks, don’t be afraid to let your friends know that you’d be happy to host the place.
Post updated: December 2, 2024
The easiest crowd pleaser.
Post updated: September 22, 2024
Get ready to rave.
house is too small
Time to get creative! I live in a one-bedroom apartment, and while it’s not very small, the floor plan and furniture make it not ideal for entertaining. One section, two bar stools, and no table and chairs means more standing time. But when you open the balcony door (which gives you at least four more places to sit or walk around), the space feels a little bigger. The important thing is to know how many people can comfortably sit indoors and what kind of party you can host.
With limited furniture, my space is the perfect place for pre-dinner cocktails and snacks, or to watch the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve fireworks downtown. Is it a dinner party or a game night? You will need to buy tables and chairs and change the layout. Don’t let the size or layout of your space get in the way of your creativity.
My place isn’t completely decorated or ready
Well, this certainly hits home. I feel like I’m always waiting for amenities like furniture, art (or lack thereof), sound system, games, etc. to be updated before I invite someone into my home.
The truth is, no one pays as much attention to detail as you do. Perhaps they are just there to spend some quality time.
One thing I recently enjoyed was a game night a friend hosted while she was renovating her home. (And to be honest, I didn’t even notice). If you feel like you need to spruce up your space, you’ll be surprised to find new cushions, candles, serving boards, and even small pieces of art for just $100 at Target. It really doesn’t take that long.
I’m not good at cooking
Does it have to be? There are many alternatives. Trader Joe’s practically (not literally) meets the needs of the at-home entertainer. Just look in the frozen aisle and cheese section and you’ll find all the options you need. Don’t have a TJ’s nearby? Have your guests bring a small side dish or help fill out a snack board. At a recent party I went to, I asked guests to bring their favorite cheeses and meats for a giant cheese board. It’s an instant crowd pleaser and it’s also fun to see what your guests bring. You always have the option of ordering in, catering, or calling your favorite restaurant to order takeout with plenty of advance notice. The point is, you don’t have to be a great cook to entertain people.
This is something I can relate to and it has to do with my perfectionist side. The easiest way I’ve done it is to leave it to the pros and get some fun menu planning ideas from friends like Gaby Dalkin of What’s Gaby Cooking and our own Camille Styles who is always on hand for expert hosting tips. That’s what I did.
A beginner’s guide to hosting.
Step 1: Run the target.
Post updated on December 11, 2024
My friends are asking for it now.
I’m stuck on a theme
I love theme parties! (Actually, love is a little thing and I’m obsessed with love.) I don’t think every party needs a theme, but I do appreciate how people interpret the theme and have a great night of conversation. It’s certainly fun to watch. I’ve written about high and low wine pairings before, and I think it would be fun to approach themed parties in the same way. Think of something a little unexpected and unique. You might also consider what is the opposite of your initial idea.
Party themes to inspire you:
Merry & Bright: A sparkling soirée. Guests wear sparkling costumes, and the decor features twinkling lights, metallic accents, and lots of sparkles. Champagne cocktails and dazzling desserts set the mood. Holiday Movie Marathon Mixer. Celebrate with themed cocktails and light bites inspired by iconic holiday movies. Think “Elf” themed candy spreads or “Home Alone” style pizza. Après ski chic. Transform your space into a cozy lodge complete with hot toddies, faux fur throws, and a s’mores station. Guests are encouraged to wear winter attire perfect for après-ski. Travel around the world with 12 drinks. Take a world tour of holiday cocktails, where each drink represents a seasonal tradition from a different country. Combined with a small part-time job.
If you completely disagree with this opinion, you can also keep it simple and host gatherings around upcoming holidays, birthdays, etc. Or you can do it without setting a theme at all. I’ve gotten a lot of inspiration from Pinterest, Etsy, and even Paperless Post, but if something doesn’t come to you naturally, don’t force it.
I hope this motivates you all. And remember. Spending time with friends is more important than the art on the walls, the theme of the night, or whether you nailed the grilled brie. (However, if that is the cause of your anxiety, this recipe is foolproof.)
