As the holidays approach, many of us are preparing for relatives to arrive for days at our homes or friends and family to gather together at our tables. I always feel energized about life and more festive for the season if I play hostess for friends and family at my own home. I love the confidence I feel when I see my guests having a blast and seeing my hard work pay off in smiles and bonding. We may want everything to look perfect and effortless like a magazine, but deep down we really just want to enjoy the day with our guests and feel great about hosting an amazing event! Hosting people at your home can be stressful but super exciting, and I have a few tips that will relieve your stress and wow your guests.

 

1. Be Prepared

You don’t have to be stressed when your guests are with you. You want to enjoy their company too. If you take some time in the days before their arrival to finish your to-do list, you will feel more at ease when they are with you. Take a few minutes every day or dedicate the day before to preparation. Cleaning, washing, setting up their rooms, decorating, cooking, and organizing can be done ahead of time so you don’t feel rushed or feel like you forgot something.

 

If you take some time in the days before their arrival to finish your to-do list, you will feel more at ease when they are with you.

 

2. Have Plenty

Your guests will feel much more at home and comforted if you provide enough food and drinks knowing that your guests will be full and happy. Snacks like healthy vegetable plates, trail mixes, or fruit salad are quick to make and can please a crowd. Solicit the group for potluck dishes if that will help ease the cooking burden and make sure there’s enough to go around. Check with your guests if anyone has any food allergies or other preferences that might affect your preparation. You want everyone to experience your delicious food!

For a delicious and healthy side dish for your Thanksgiving meal, click here!

 

3. Feel Comfy

Think about how much you love going to a hotel and seeing all the towels and sheets are clean and a chocolate is on your pillow. If your guests are staying the night, small things can really make you guests feel at home and treated well. Maybe place a few bottles of water in their room or have their favorite coffee creamer at the ready. Write down the Wi-Fi password and make sure they can see it. Small comforts and conveniences don’t cost much or take much time but can make your guests feel really special.

 

Small comforts and conveniences don’t cost much or take much time but can make your guests feel really special.

 

4. Plan Ahead

No one enjoys the “what do you want to do?” back and forth that can happen when you don’t have plans! Center your event on a crowd-favorite activity (holidays parades, football games, Black Friday shopping) or make some plans for the downtime. This could include a trip to your favorite local spot or even have a few board games or movies on hand to bring out when your guests get antsy. Think about what you love about your city or town and show off to your guests!

 

5. Stay Informed

Let your guests in on the schedule and plans for the event. They can’t be expected to be ready to go ice skating or to the local parade if you don’t let them know when and what they’re doing! If they’re staying the night, let them know if you are morning larks or night owls and provide solutions if they are the opposite. Point out the coffee maker, newspapers, and remote controls! If you go to the gym or to another commitment, let them know and maybe invite them along. If you have plans for the whole group to do an activity at a certain time, tell them so they know when to be ready and help them stay in the loop. 

 

6. Look Festive

I love diy crafts and decorations, especially for the holidays. Create a table centerpiece that reflects the holidays and impresses your guests. It can be elaborate like a traditional cornucopia or simple like a bowl filled with cute holiday knickknacks or seasonal flowers. Set out a few little decorative pieces around the house and maybe set out your scents of choice throughout the house. You want everyone to walk in and automatically feel festive and ready to party! 

 

7. Feel Gracious

Kindness can really help your guests feel comfortable and appreciated. Thank them if they bring a gift or if they offer to help you prepare food or clean up after a meal. If they are getting to know one another, help them with introductions and conversation starters. Make sure to take a deep breath to center yourself if you feel overwhelmed. Take a moment to feel grateful for your loved ones.

Take a moment to feel grateful for your loved ones.

 

8. Don’t Sweat

Enjoy the fruits of your labor and your guests’ happiness! Don’t worry if you forgot the napkin rings or if plates are piling up while you and your guests are having fun. Don’t sweat the small stuff after the guests arrive. Enjoy the time with your family and friends!

 

What are some of your tips for being a great hostess? Comment below and share your ideas!

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