How to Host a Stress Free Holiday Dinner Party

 

The holidays are known to bring out the best and worst in people.

Take my husband and I for instance… his middle name might as well be “host” because he loves nothing more to host a good party.  In fact, if he weren’t married to me, he would probably host a party every. single. weekend.

…I’m not even kidding…

Me on the other hand… let’s just say I’m a little more reserved.  Don’t get me wrong, I love a good party.  But the stress and anxiety that ensues after sending out the official invite overcomes me.  It never fails.  I stress over everything from making sure that we have an over abundance of food and drinks for our guests, to cleaning, setting up decor, etc.  After 11 years together I suppose it has gotten a little better by sticking to the following 6 basic hosting rules.

Make a List

…and check it twice!  List making is crucial to help my stress and anxiety.  Not only does it take all the busyness out of my head, but its a great resource to have handy while preparing for your dinner party.

Shop Early

This is especially true for holiday dinner parties.  Stores will be beyond crowded in the days leading up to your holiday dinner.  Ain’t nobody got time for all of that!  This is when your list comes in handy.  Bring it with you and check it twice before you leave.  Forget something?  No problem – head back to the store first thing in the morning because that is likely to be the only time you won’t have to deal with the overcrowded stores.

Accept Help

If a guest offers to help in any way – bringing a side dish, or arriving early to help set up or cook – say YES!  Don’t be prideful.  This is one of my biggest weaknesses.  Maybe its pride, maybe its just stupidity.  I have gotten better about this over the years.  These days I’m all about pot-lucks.  Want to help me check one more item off my list?  Go for it!

Prepare in Advance

This is key to making sure I stay on schedule.  When I’m hosting a holiday dinner, I try to prep in any way I can.  Examples include setting the table early in the day, washing a bag of potatoes well before its time to start cooking them, or wash and cut any veggies needed.  These may not seem like big ticket items but trust me, it helps tremendously to get them out of the way while you can.

Wine, Wine Wine!!

Because what is a party without wine?  I always am sure to stock up on our favorite Wente favorites, especially now with their 25% off coupon code for single vineyard or estate grown wines online using 25TOAST at checkout.

Enjoy Your Party!

This is perhaps the most important step.  All your hard work has paid off and everyone is enjoying the party which means that you should be too!  Grab a glass of wine and celebrate with your loved ones!

Cheers!

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