Do
Prepare a playlist. And make sure it’s playing as soon as your first guest arrives – Music will set the tone! (If you don’t already have a playlist, feel free to steal ours!)
Don’t
Forget to greet your guests with a cocktail. It can be as simple as a glass of wine or champagne, or as chic as this pomegranate cosmo, but our absolute, most important, number 1 tip is to make sure your guests have a drink in their hand as soon as they walk in!
Photo: Kent Drake Photography for Crate and Barrel
Do
Make sure your menu is balanced & keep dietary restrictions in mind. Be sure to have gluten free, dairy free, and vegan/vegetarian options so nobody leaves hungry!
Don’t
Stand in front of the sink for the entire night. This is tough for some people, but try to ignore the mess until your guests leave so you can enjoy.
Photo: Kent Drake Photography for Crate and Barrel
Do
Have games handy. Our favorites this year are: Speak Out, Who’s Most Likely To, and What Do You Meme
Don’t
Overdo it. If the idea of concocting a signature cocktail, cooking a 3-course meal, decorating, and providing entertainment overwhelms you, then pick what doesn’t sound like an impossible chore and do that well. For example, if the reason you want to host a party is to show off a few new recipes but you aren’t thrilled about the idea of mixing cocktails, then start to delegate – Have one friend provide drinks, one friend bring games, and another make a playlist and just plan on keeping decor simple. Hosting a holiday shindig shouldn’t be something you dread, and nobody expects you to be Martha Stewart… or our own hostess extraordinaire, Bridget. ;)
Photo: Collin Pierson Photography
Do
Keep decor simple. Candles are your best friend forever and always!
Don’t
Forget to make a toast to thank your guests for joining you!
Cheers!
Featured Image: Blue Rose Pictures for Crate and Barrel