Deck the Halls: 4 Tips for Effortless Entertaining During the Holidays
When it comes to the holidays, I’m always looking for a thoughtful, polished aesthetic that’s simple to put together and any type of shortcut that allows for effortless entertaining. Read on for my favorite holiday hacks that enable you to have a stylish yet stress-free, beautiful season.
2) Dress (The Table) To Impress
With sweet, nostalgic charm, elements of holiday collections can be styled multiple ways to achieve many different looks. A palette of traditional reds, greens, and jewel tones quickly creates a playful yet sophisticated vibe—perfect for an elegant Christmas dinner or vibrant holiday party. Reusable patterned paper runners set a flawless table foundation, layering paper placemats anchors each place setting, and place cards and accents personalize guests’ seats.
3) Don’t Forget The Favors
Incorporating recipe cards can easily become the perfect guest favor. Highlight a signature cocktail that was served at the party or share your favorite dessert. Filling out the cards is an ideal activity for teenagers on holiday break. Set them at the front door in a basket or container to ensure guests pick theirs up on the way out.
4) That's A Wrap
Are you hosting a gift exchange? Grab some patterned tissue paper, a coordinating bag and hang tag and—viola(!)—within seconds, you’re prepared to exchange your gift. Wrapping paper, bags, and hang tags that coordinate with your table theme will have you feeling organized and confident during the most chaotic time of year.
1) Invest In Invites
Personal paper invitations via individual cards or boxed sets are always best. While digital invites are convenient, a paper invitation makes guests feel special. What’s more, they set the tone for your event and add a personal touch for those receiving them. Coordinate stamps for the season and send off. Outside of food prep (and I say enlist a caterer or incorporate some ready-made foods!), this is the most difficult thing you’ll do in preparing for your party—it’s all downhill from here!
Personal paper invitations via individual cards or boxed sets are always best. While digital invites are convenient, a paper invitation makes guests feel special. What’s more, they set the tone for your event and add a personal touch for those receiving them. Coordinate stamps for the season and send off. Outside of food prep (and I say enlist a caterer or incorporate some ready-made foods!), this is the most difficult thing you’ll do in preparing for your party—it’s all downhill from here!
Holiday Table Setting
2) Dress (The Table) To Impress
With sweet, nostalgic charm, elements of holiday collections can be styled multiple ways to achieve many different looks. A palette of traditional reds, greens, and jewel tones quickly creates a playful yet sophisticated vibe—perfect for an elegant Christmas dinner or vibrant holiday party. Reusable patterned paper runners set a flawless table foundation, layering paper placemats anchors each place setting, and place cards and accents personalize guests’ seats.
3) Don’t Forget The Favors
Incorporating recipe cards can easily become the perfect guest favor. Highlight a signature cocktail that was served at the party or share your favorite dessert. Filling out the cards is an ideal activity for teenagers on holiday break. Set them at the front door in a basket or container to ensure guests pick theirs up on the way out.
Ginger bread man decorations
4) That's A Wrap
Are you hosting a gift exchange? Grab some patterned tissue paper, a coordinating bag and hang tag and—viola(!)—within seconds, you’re prepared to exchange your gift. Wrapping paper, bags, and hang tags that coordinate with your table theme will have you feeling organized and confident during the most chaotic time of year.
By Kerrie L. Kelly, FASID