As we all know, the holidays are pulling up, and the pressure is getting worse! Throughout the course of the upcoming weeks, I will share all things…holiday! Below you will find 3 tips that I think are overall helpful to remember and do, during this time.
1. Cook Ahead and Cook what you know
The most important thing anyone can do to make it through the constant coming and going of the holiday house guests is to prepare as many foods in advance as possible. Prep days before and cook dinner the night before, you will be very thankful that you did the work during a quieter stretch of days. Cook what you know, now is actually not the time to attempt a culinary competition for the first time. The number one thing is don’t try a crazy new recipe. It’s not you showing off your culinary skills, it’s about warmth and hospitality. Instead, plan a meal you’re confident you can cook—which doesn’t mean you have to cook an old-school feast.
2. Makeup the Guest Room and DIY if You Don’t Have One
No one wants a long staying guest but during the holidays you want them to feel comfortable. Providing essentials in their room like clean towels, an alarm clock, basic toiletries, and a note with helpful tips for their stay. For example, where to find your Wi-Fi password, instructions for the TV, or a few suggested activities–either way, it will make your guests feel welcome. If you don’t have the luxury of a designated guest room, whether it’s an air mattress in your office or a sofa in the living room, dress it up like a real bed. Designate a “nightstand” for them (this can be a cleared-off table or bookshelf) and set out an eye mask or earplugs if your guest is sleeping in a common area. Also, investing in an inexpensive folding screen goes a long way in giving your guest a little privacy which can easily be stored when you’re not hosting.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
As much as we’d like to believe that we can do it ALL, everyone needs a little help now and then. Ask a family member to do the vacuuming or set up the glasses. If you are preparing a big feast, ask a friend to help welcome the guest, provide them with a drink, and hang up their coats; so you can attend to the food in the kitchen. Don’t forget to enjoy yourself, for this moment shall pass too!
I just hosted my family last weekend and I definitely prepped ahead of time! The tip about the guest room is quite accurate because after a few drinks in, a family member needed to lie down and I’m glad the room was prepped and ready for use!
I’m lucky I had my mother around because she was the perfect person to lend a hand to speed things up and not feel overwhelmed with all the little details!
Such a fun read and I’ll be recommending to friends who are thinking about hosting for the holidays!
Thanks Shinta!❣️