If you are hosting for the holidays, don’t stress! Take a deep breath and remember that it can actually be a fun thing. I’m excited to be hosting Thanksgiving for the first time and have been actually looking forward to it! There’s so many pro’s to hosting… it’s your house (and your rules). Plus, it makes nap time (and keeping schedules on track) for the kids much easier. Oh, and getting to sleep in your own bed - not on someone’s couch or futon! I will always prefer hosting over going somewhere when given the opportunity.

But I do know hosting can be stressful.

So, I thought I would share a few tips to get your house looking its best for your guests! And a few ideas to make it a simple + fun experience as you play hostess this holiday.

Remember that little decor can go a long way. If you are like me and tired of pumpkins, but not ready for full-on Christmas decor, incorporate pops of greenery into your decor. Look for faux (or real) garlands that you can add to your tabletop or place in other spots around your house. You can buy one large garland and cut it into pieces! You can also look for green votives or winter inspired candles to place around the table, like the ones I found at Restoration Emporium. You don’t have to buy all new decor though! Mix in old pieces or family heirlooms and mix on a few new pieces. I will be using my grandmother’s china paired with some new, neutral decor pieces.
Focus on the table setting: You don't need fancy plates or silverware! But I do think a real plate goes a long way…I try to ditch the paper plates anytime I am the hostess. But don’t feel obligated if that isn’t your thing. Use what you have! Neutrals are a great way to go.
Beyond plates, I like to add in a fun napkin that you can loosely tie and place directly on the plate to dress it up! Also, I always add a layer to the place setting to make it stand out. A wood board is anunexpected, but easy option. I found mine locally at KC Furnishing Co. I also added mini wreaths and “KC” ornaments by Lauren Heim on our plates to dress up the table.
p.s. Lauren Heim was SO kind to give a $2 off coupon to you! Use: kathrynelise at checkout for $2 off the “KC” ornanament set of 3!
Add Personal Touches: Personal touches, like a hand-written place card, goes a long way. You don’t have to be a calligrpher - just have fun with it! Also, I think it’s fun to add a quote or ask your guests to write something they are thankful for on the back of the card. If you don't want to get creative, Table Top in a Box is a local Kansas City company that creates table decor kits that are so easy to set out so you can focus on food prep! I used the Jules box and love that it comes with unique touches that you can add to elevate your table.
The Jules Box is described as “UNDERSTATED CHIC, JULES IS MINIMALISTIC YET STUNNING IN HER SIMPLICITY. SHE CAN BE DRESSED UP FOR A CANDLELIT DINNER, AND STILL BE PERFECT FOR MORNING COFFEE AND CROISSANTS. NATURAL AND EASY GOING SHE IS SURE TO MAKE THE PERFECT GIFT.”
To-Go & Gift Options: Look for fun ways to let your guests take food or even wine, to-go! There’s no point in keeping all the half-drank wine and leftover to yourself. Reusable storage bags and extra tupperware bowls are good to have on hand. Also, let your guests take home wine with a custom nametag as a gift to pair with their leftover package.
Just have fun with it! The holiday can be busy and stressful. Family arguments can happen. Food can easily get ruined. Wine can spill. Try not to focus on what can or what does go wrong. Keep fun games and activities on hand for the kids and let’s be honest, adults. Set-up a play area for kids and don’t worry if the men end up eating around the TV so they can watch the football game. Enjoy your time as a host! And worst case scenario, step away for a second to re-group and pour yourself a glass of wine! Oh, and keep a bottle of Folex on hand for any spills!