I have put together some creative ideas for fail-safe holiday entertaining with cocktails, canapés and tablesettings to see you through to the end of the year and beyond. Remember that holiday entertaining should be fun! At the bottom is a checklist of all the things to remember when entertaining for the holidays - and always - to help you enjoy hosting.

Cocktails

A house cocktail can be prepared in advance.  The majority of your guests will be intrigued to try it, eliminating the need to set up a full bar for everyone’s tastes.  If several people will not be drinking alcohol, create a second non-alcoholic pitcher.

The Berry Paloma

Blend fresh cranberries, raspberries and blackberries. Juice fresh grapefruits and limes and add to the berries. You need a lot of fruit! Pour all the juices together into a pitcher and add tequila (or vodka) and a dash of grand marnier.

For the mocktail, replace the booze with sparkling water.  Prepare an ice bucket/bowl and as guests arrive fill a glass with ice and pour the cocktail over.

Table Setting

One of the joys of setting a table is its impermanence – you set a scene with linens, flowers and other decorations to enjoy and celebrate in the moment.

We offer so many options unique table settings options in the widest range of colors and prints to fit any occasion and any style.

A perfectly custom sized tablecloth instantly makes you look like the consummate host.

 If you don’t know how many people are coming, you can use placemats and add or remove leaves to the table to be flexible.

If you entertain very often, have neutral options that suit all seasons.

Canapés

Have something to whet your guests’ appetite and settle them in.  A plate you can pass is preferable to a cheese or charcuterie board.

Pick a couple of your favorite cheeses – I chose Cambozola and Stilton. Start with a cracker of your choice. Add a sweet base layer – orange marmalade or honey. Next, something green – baby rocket/arugula or microgreens. Then the cheese and top with a fig.

Your Plan Ahead Check-List

Good organization will keep you relaxed. Start a note with all key information: Who you invited, who replied yes, who replied no and who you’re waiting to hear from Menu: canapés/snacks, starter/salad, main course, dessert. From this you can start a shopping list. Decor: plan the linens, plates, glasses, serving pieces, cutlery/silverware, flowers/vases and other accessories (napkin rings, candles, place-cards) that you will use. Add anything missing to the shopping list.

Do as much as possible before the day of your event. Set the table in advance. And plan the menu for your convenience: embrace dishes that can be prepared and/or cooked in advance and avoid anything that will chain you to the stove while your guests are arriving.

Consider All Five Senses

Sight: A well-set table signals to your guests that you cherish their company and you want to make this a special, memorable occasion.

Taste: Be considerate of the tastes of the people coming and play to your own strengths – do something non-traditional if it will turn out better!

Smell: Add to the intoxicating aromas coming from your oven, with your favorite fragranced candles, especially in an entry area and a bathroom guests will use.

Touch: Make sure everyone is comfortable: they have a place to enjoy a drink when they arrive and everyone has a seat at the table!

Sound: Don’t forget to have music playing in the background – it makes all the difference to the atmosphere

Enjoy It!

Don’t ever lose sight of the aim of sharing time with family and friends – to catch up, enjoy each other’s company and have fun! Avoid any aspects of holiday entertaining that stress you out (beyond the to-be-expected jitters). And delegate: your guests enjoy being involved.

Happy party season - text, write, call, live chat - look forward to hearing from you and seeing your parties! xo