Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining

I got these tips from the ‘Groove Mamma‘, Nadine Hughes.

“Making the most of your holiday entertaining,” says Hughes, “means keeping it simple by not trying to do too much.” Here are her Top 5 Tips for Stylish, Stress-free Fun this holiday season):

1. Make a List and Check it Twice!
There’s so much to do during the holidays on top of your everyday responsibilities- so it’s a great idea to keep track of what you have to do, from shopping to decorating to cooking. Whether it’s a day-timer, a free online resource like Google Calendar or a piece of paper taped to your fridge – making lists, schedules and timelines will help keep your head clear for other more important tasks like stocking the bar!

2. Do Ahead.
When making your list, make sure that you plan your holiday menus around recipes that can be prepared in advance and add them to your calendar. Hors d’oeuvres or cookie doughs that freeze well and can be popped into the oven at a moments notice or sauces and side dishes that keep for a few days in the refrigerator are time and sanity savers.

3. Keep It Simple.
Keeping your holiday parties simple will put the focus back on spending time with your loved ones and not spending it alone in the kitchen. Don’t feel that you have to host a cast of thousands and make a 7 course meal to keep everyone happy. Instead, have friends over for a specialty drink and a cheese tray or welcome them in from the winter’s cold with a buffet of piping hot soup tureens and an assortment of artisan breads.

4. Choose One Signature Cocktail.
Don’t blow your holiday budget on trying to stock a full bar. Instead, have some fun and wow your guests with a sexy, seasonal cocktail. Don’t forget to prepare your bar ahead of time with the ingredients for the cocktail, lots of ice, glasses and non-alcoholic drinks for the drivers in the room.

5. Chill.
The ice, but more importantly, you! The key to being a great host is making your guests feel comfortable and you can’t do that if you’re not relaxed. So take some time before the party (put it on your list if you need to!) and do whatever it is that relaxes you. Maybe it’s dancing to your favorite song, relaxing in a scented bubble bath or curled up with a book and a glass of wine, just remember to take a deep breath and enjoy!