Entertaining can be stressful for any occasion, but the holidays seem to bring another tier to the frenzy. The main keys are to simplify and remember the reason for the season. We entertain because we desire to spend quality time strengthening our connections with those we love. Running ourselves ragged, over complicating, trying new things and seeking perfection sabotage that goal. Here are a few tips to keep you on track this season.
- Be careful with your guest list. Limit the number based on the type of event you are planning. Try to not overfill your space. Remember your goal, building connections. If people can’t move around freely or speak comfortably to everyone at their table then you are working against your goal.
- Focus on a few special details. Cookie place cards make a memorable statement, everyone appreciates seeing their own name, and double as a favor all ages enjoy. Sprinkled by Sydney offers custom cookies and logos that will be the talk of the table. An area with a photo ready backdrop and props is another special detail that brings people together to make memories. If you have room for a balloon accent Liz Brock, with Two Peas and Party, creates fabulous photo worthy displays. There is nothing more Southern than having a little surcee for each guest to take home. A truffle from Cocobon, a little jar of honey from Forx Farm, cheese pennies from The Sweetery, Kiss a Prince lip balm or Mama JJ’s bath melts all make an outstanding surcee. We are blessed to have a plethora of locally made items that feel special to receive. Little details like cloth napkins, glassware at the bar, garnishes and fresh flowers all give a feeling of extra special warmth. Simply pick one of two extra touches to elevate the experience.
- Keep it simple. Appetizers with two or three ingredients should be your go to. Things like brie baked with cranberry sauce, pistachios and a drizzle of honey. Make your signature dishes. Those tired and true recipes that you can make on autopilot. Consider batch cocktails over an open bar. Those limit shopping and make it easy for your guests to pour themselves a fabulous cocktail. Consider offering two. One with vodka or tequila and one with bourbon. This plan makes it easy to have special garnishes for each and special glassware. Simple can still be elegant and it most certainly leans toward the host being able to enjoy making connections as well.
- Use your local resources. Even if your event is not being catered, consider adding a few items that you only need to plate. Think outside the box. One of my favorite ideas is pork dumplings from Wok and Roll for a different appetizer. To really impress your guests, order a tray of mini cheesecakes from Sullivans. The Kitchen Emporium and Propp Drugs are your top tier resources when planning to entertain. At Propp you can find things like dip mixes, chocolate covered pecans, tart shells, gourmet popcorn, swan creek candles, decorative seasonal hand soaps and lotions, jams and pickled items. The Kitchen Emporium can give advice on wines and batch drinks like Aperol spritz. They have a blood orange mimosa in a bottle y’all. You can find unique food items and staples in their freezer, fridge and on the shelf. They source many Southern made food lines. For a showstopping flower centerpiece Honey B, Aimee Cromer, is your one stop shop. Remember to think outside the box. Maybe you have a beautiful flower in the bathroom or entrance way instead of the food table. Potted plants in one of your unique containers make a big impact as well. Think local and think different for the most memorable events.
- Bring the fun. Whether it be the photo area we mentioned earlier, favor nutcrackers that you gather and pop, games, ice breakers, toasts, fireworks, or storytelling. As the host, make it your mission for each guest to leave with a smile on their face feeling like they grew closer to those in the room. One of my favorite ideas is for each guest to receive a card that has a little known fact about another guest. Over the course of the evening, they must find the name of the person. They can write the name and the time on the card and drop it into a designated bowl. At the end of the evening you can give fun prizes.
I truly believe entertaining can be stress free and fun, even during the busiest time of the year, while still being memorable and special. Just pick the right number for your room, plan a few special details, keep it simple, think local and plan for the fun! Happy entertaining and Merry Christmas!