Tips for Stress-Free Entertaining + Contest

The holidays are a lot. Like, A LOT. From planning to preparing, shopping, decorating, wrapping, baking, crafting, card sending, wish making, gift arranging… Then there’s the entertaining. Don’t get me wrong, I love welcoming guests during the holidays. But it can be a bit stressful. Here are a few tips for stress-free entertaining so can have as much fun as your guests.

Have some special touches on hand

There’s nothing worse than spending the whole party saying “Don’t mind the ________”. Our home is ‘lived in’ and though it cleans up nice, having a few things ‘for guests’ that are saved for special occasions helps. Guest towels and pretty soap in the bathroom are a nice treat (even for me. I love the Paw Patrol soap pump but…)

Keep a stash of “Just in Case” gifts

I hate that awkward moment when someone arrives with a gift, and you have nothing in return. Keeping a few neutral choices like hand made stationary in your gift closet will mean you have something that works for everyone.

Stock up on your secret weapon

Spills, drips and full on catastrophes happen whenever there’s food and drink around. Some people swear by club soda but I’m an OxyClean girl. With red wine and rich sauces on the menu, I actually move my OxiClean Max Force from the laundry room to under my kitchen sink.

Don’t overcomplicate everything

Ok, it’s true that I like to show off in the kitchen (just a bit). But I’ve learned that balance is important. If you’re going for flashy mains, offer simple appetizers to start. Our home is open concept, so I’m often putting the finishing touches on things in front of guests. When things seem easy breezy, it puts my guests at ease, and I have more time to mingle before we sit down for the big show.

Set the stage (I mean the table)

The table is the focal point of most holiday gatherings. Simple elegant touches can easily set the mood no matter what your taste or budget. Holiday accessories you’re proud to place are usually the ones that make guests ooh and awe.

Get set for holiday entertaining with Sarah Delivered

Pro hostess, design maven and HGTV co-host, Sarah Baeumler has a new monthly subscription box called Sarah Delivered . These launched earlier this year to rave reviews and I’ve been coveting one every since. The box features a great selection of hand-picked items to ensure the busy holiday season goes off without a hitch, including something for every tip on the list.

We’re giving away this Sarah Delivered Box to one lucky reader. To be eligible to win, enter below. And don’t forget to leave a comment with your entertaining tip the holidays!

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