We get the angst that comes with taking on the role of host. Delysia Chocolatier hosts a number of events during the busy holiday season as we ramp up production in the kitchen. After so many events we’ve got holiday hosting down to a science.
If you love hosting but could do without all the stress these tips could help.
Plan a Menu That Doesn’t Require Cooking Every Item
The most labor-intensive part of hosting a holiday party is preparing the food and refreshments. Just creating a menu that will appeal to all of the guests can be a source of stress.
One thing you can do to minimize the anxiety is include a number of foods that don’t have to be cooked. You’ll have less work to do in the kitchen and less concern over juggling oven space, blenders, the stove stop, etc. Put focus on cold dishes during the appetizer and dessert course. Instead of baking a pie or cookies you can treat guests to an assortment of our holiday chocolate truffles and not have to worry about cooking dessert.
Take Time to Plan Out the Seating
One of the trickiest logistics of hosting a holiday party is seating. Where will everyone sit? Is there enough room? Should you assign places at the table to make conversation flow smoothly?
This is where planning in advance pays off. First, make sure to have guests RSVP if you’re having a buffet or sit down dinner. This will give you the most accurate head count possible. Now consider your space to identify various seating areas if there are more guests than will fit at your dining room table.
If the party is kid-friendly find a spot for a kid’s table that’s out of the way but within eyeshot of the adult’s area. People who have a spacious patio can easily convert it into an additional dining space. Patios that aren’t closed in can be made more comfortable with a pop-up tent and a few propane space heaters. You may also want to rent a few tables and chairs to comfortably accommodate everyone.
Give Guests Something Memorable
People are sure to get invited to more holiday parties than they can actually fit into their schedule. After a while each one can seem like a continuation of another. Make your holiday party an event to remember by giving guests something memorable.
It could be a small token with the date, a thumb drive with pictures of the event, special entertainment or even a delicacy that they can’t get anywhere else. During the holidays our three-dimensional chocolate molds grace dinner tables across the country. It’s an unexpected addition to the décor that can double as a dessert, which catches people’s attention.
How do you make your holiday parties a little less stressful? Share your tips with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterist or Instagram.
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