If you’re housing friends and family at your place for the Holidays, here are a few easy ways you can cut down on the stress of hosting and ensure everyone has an enjoyable holiday experience – yourself included!
-
Deck the Halls – Put on a pot of cider and your favorite Christmas tunes and get into the holiday spirit by decorating the Christmas tree, unpacking your seasonal throws, and stringing up lights and garlands well before your guests arrive. Not only does this check a big item off of your to-do list, you get to enjoy your winter wonderland while completing the less exciting tasks on your list.
-
Prepare Them Room – Make sure your extra bedrooms/bathroom are clean and stocked with basic hygiene products such as toothpaste, toilet paper and plenty of fresh linens a few days in advance.
-
Let it Snow! – Don’t be caught off guard if a big snow storm rolls in right before your guests do! Stock up on cold weather + heating essentials like ice melt, firewood, candles and matches to make sure everyone stays safe and warm no matter the weather.
-
Santa Claus is Coming to Town – and so are your loved ones, so stock up on groceries (especially snacks/appetizers and beverages), bath soap, shampoo + conditioner, toilet paper, etc. The last thing you want to worry about with a house full of guests is braving the weather to make an emergency essentials run!
-
Set the Table Ahead of Time – This may not be the best option if you have curious little ones occupying your home, but if you’re able, setting the table a day or two in advance will give you one less thing to stress about on the day of your big meal!
-
Have a Holly Jolly Christmas by making sure to have a few of your favorite games on hand for passing the time between meals! If you play your cards right, you’ll have completed most of your host/hostess duties ahead of your guests arrival, leaving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the holidays with the ones you love most. Recruit visiting friends and family to help with any additional meal prep/cleanup needed.