Holiday Notes: Entertaining Tips

The holiday season to me is about getting together with family and friends. And for that reason, during this time of year, I'll host more brunches and dinner parties. I'll even come up with a themed party as an excuse to have my friends over. Last year it was this wreath-making brunch and this year, I'm thinking of a cookie exchange party. Anyway, I digress.

So as an experienced hostess, I'm sharing some entertaining tips with you as part of my holiday notes series.

1. Plan your menu for your party and send out invites.2. Prepare ahead anything that you can. From salad dressings to the dessert.3. Start the holiday party with something easy such as a cheese or charcuterie board.4. Serve your favorite wine to your guests. I'm stocking up on a few bottles of Wente.5. Have a signature cocktail ready to drink. That way you'll spend more time with your guests than working in the kitchen. I'll be sharing a recipe soon.6. If you are serving a meal, put the finishing touches on the main entree and ask a friend for help, if needed.7. Have a pitcher of cold water accessible to your guests.8. If it's a more formal dinner, have your table settings set and place name cards on each table setting. I think it's easier for guests to know where to sit instead of guessing where.9. Always start your meal with a toast.10. Don't stress, enjoy and have fun!

Cheers to the holiday season!