Hosting Tips for Entertaining

The Christmas season is a magical time, but for us hosts, it can often feel a little chaotic mixed with all the fun

Between meal prep, décor, and coordinating with guests, the pressure to create a perfect event can be overwhelming, but that’s where a bit of thoughtful planning and getting the right support can turn a potential headache into a fun experience. 

Here are my top tips for hosting a stress-free holiday gathering.

2. Simplify Your Menu

While it’s tempting to impress your guests with a magnificent menu, simplicity is your best friend. Focus on one or two standout dishes rather than a dozen complicated recipes. Consider including make ahead options to save time on the day of the event.

Pro Tip: consider partnering with a catering service like Bon Appetit to create a tailored menu that meets your vision and dietary needs.

Christmas Hosting Menu

Here’s a simple, informal menu idea you could try.

Appetisers

• Mini Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.

• Festive Bruschetta Trio: Classic tomato, roasted red pepper & feta, and cranberry brie.

• Spiced Nuts & Cheese Board: A selection of nuts roasted with holiday spices paired with bite sized cheeses and crackers.

Mains

• Honey-Glazed Ham Sliders: Served on soft brioche buns with mustard or cranberry mayo.

• Roasted Veggie Tart: Flaky pastry topped with seasonal vegetables and goat cheese.

• Holiday Mac & Cheese: Creamy baked macaroni with a crispy panko topping.

Sides

• Winter Salad: Mixed greens with dried cranberries, candied pecans, and a light citrus vinaigrette.

• Garlic & Herb Roasted Potatoes: Crispy and golden brown with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Dessert

• DIY Dessert Bar: Mini jars of mousse (chocolate, vanilla, and peppermint), cookies, and holiday toppings like crushed candy canes.

• Hot Chocolate Station: Rich hot chocolate with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and cinnamon sticks.

Drinks

• Signature Holiday Mocktail: Sparkling cranberry-orange spritz with a sprig of rosemary.

• Seasonal Sangria: Red wine with orange slices, pomegranate seeds, and cinnamon sticks.

This menu is versatile, easy to prepare, and will delight guests with minimal stress. 

Packaged & Shelf-Stable

• Balsamic glaze (1 bottle)

• Roasted red peppers (1 jar)

• Cranberry sauce (1 small jar)

• Mixed nuts (2 cups)

• Holiday spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, chili powder)

• Crackers (1-2 boxes)

• Elbow macaroni (1 lb)

• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)

• Olive oil

• Hot chocolate mix (or ingredients for homemade)

• Cinnamon sticks (12 pieces + 3-4 for sangria)

Frozen

• Puff pastry sheets (2-3 sheets)

Deli/Meat

• Sliced honey-glazed ham (2 lbs)

Sweets & Snacks

• Cookies (variety, 2-3 dozen)

• Peppermint candy canes (crushed, 1 cup)

Drinks

• Cranberry juice (1 bottle)

• Orange juice (1 bottle)

• Sparkling water or soda (2 bottles)

• Red wine (2 bottles)

Optional Supplies

• Small jars or cups (for mousse servings)

4. Opt for Festive Simplicity in Décor

You don’t need extravagant decorations to make your event shine. A cohesive color palette, candles, and natural elements like pinecones or fresh greenery can create a festive atmosphere without extra effort.

Pro Tip: Use multipurpose décor like edible centerpieces or platters arranged with holiday treats.

Sample Delegation List for Holiday Gathering

1 Week Before the Event

Finalise Décor – Assign to: Sarah

   Task: Pick up candles, greenery, and table settings.

 Confirm Guest Count & Catering – Assign to: Host (you)

    Task: Double-check RSVPs and confirm the menu with Bon Appetite.

2 Days Before the Event

 Shopping for Beverages & Extra Items – Assign to: James

Task: Purchase wine, mocktail ingredients, soda, and ice.

 Set Up Dessert Bar Supplies – Assign to: Emily

Task: Arrange jars, toppings, and signage for the DIY dessert bar.

Morning of the Event

 Decorating the Space – Assign to: Sarah & Emily

 Task: Set up the table décor, arrange centerpieces, and add festive touches.

 Set Up Hot Chocolate Station – Assign to: James

 Task: Prepare hot chocolate in a large thermos and organise toppings like marshmallows and cinnamon sticks.

2 Hours Before the Event

 Appetiser Prep – Assign to: Julie (with Bon Appetite team)

Task: Set up appetisers on platters and ensure everything is guest-ready.

Drinks Station – Assign to: Chris

Task: Arrange drink dispensers, glasses, and garnish trays for sangria and mocktails.

During the Event

Serving and Refilling – Assign to: James & Sarah

Task: Monitor food and drinks, refilling as needed.

Dessert Station Help – Assign to: Emily

Task: Guide guests at the dessert bar and ensure the area stays tidy.

Post-Event Cleanup

Clean Tables and Décor – Assign to: Everyone

Task: Remove decorations, wipe down tables, and pack any leftover supplies.

Kitchen Cleanup – Assign to: James & Chris

Task: Wash dishes, clean counters, and store leftovers.

6. Embrace Imperfection

Finally, remember that no party is perfect and that’s okay. The holidays are about creating memories with loved ones, not obsessing over every detail. If something doesn’t go to plan, laugh it off and enjoy the moment.

Pro Tip: Focus on what matters most: good food, good company, and good times!