This post is sponsored by MacKenzie-Childs. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Sunflowers and Stilettos possible.
Happy December! And happy holiday season!!
I am so excited to share some hosting tips along with our current tablescape, featuring MacKenzie-Childs plates, platters, and serving pieces! This month is non-stop with parties and celebrations, which is forcing me to bring my A-game when it comes to hosting. MacKenzie-Childs has converted this neutral lover to someone who is excited to bring color and bold prints into the home.
5 Holiday Hosting Tips
- Stay clean and clutter free: with two crazy kids running around, this is often easier said than done for me. However, I find myself so much more anxious when my home looks like a complete disaster, and trying to clean up before guests arrive brings on additional stress. Carve out time leading up to the event to tidy up. If available, a housekeeper can be a great help!
- Plan out your menu: frankly, plan out as much as possible. Be prepared with grocery lists and time lines. Think about what you’re making versus ordering. If you’re able to prep platters and meals the day before, that makes things so much easier the day of. While we’re on the menu subject, I will say, as much as I love cooking, I find it way easier to incorporate prepared meals and not go crazy in the kitchen.
- Have snacks and appetizers: we often focus on the main meal, but your guests may come hungry! And if alcohol is involved, you don’t want people drinking on an empty stomach. We always have multiple charcuterie boards for our guests, and we try to make kid friendly ones as well, filled with fruits, crackers, cheese, and meats. I love using this Check Chop Board, Check Carving Board, and Courtly Check Enamel Pedestal Platter – Large for apps. This Plate Stand – Small is perfect too, and pairs beautifully with any of the MacKenzie-Childs salad/dessert plates.
- Create a playlist in advance: What’s a party without good tunes? Think about the mood and ambiance you want to set, and put together an appropriate playlist.
- Accept help: This is a hard one for me, and I’m sure for a lot of you too. As a host, I feel pressured to do it all. With that being said, any time I’ve told guests what they can bring [after they’ve offered], or allowed others to assist with setting up/cleaning up, it really makes a huge difference.
Ultimately, the goal is for you to relax, enjoy your company, and have fun! Don’t sweat the small stuff.
If you have any must have hosting tips, feel free to share them in the comments below!
