How to Host a Stress Free Holiday Open House

The holidays are perfect for hosting a holiday open house. 

It gives you a chance to open your home, without the stress of a huge dinner party.

Here is what you need to host an open house 

that will become a tradition.

~Set The Date~

Send out invitations thru the mail or social media but, make sure you give your guests plenty of time to put it on their calendar. 

The holidays can be extremely busy. 

*Also, make sure to note on the invite if children are invited.

 These cards from Zazzle are perfect for the holidays.

~Prep~

Plan the food and drink menu. Think about foods that do not need to be heated. Snack trays, nuts, chips things like that are good sitting out. Make sure it isn't anything to difficult to hold as your guest may be standing while eating. 

You can use disposable dishes if you would like but, to really set the tone as classy, I will be using small appetizer plates.

~Set The Scene~

Candles, music, twinkling lights are a great way to set the mood and tone of the open house. Set up chairs into small conversation areas around your home. This keeps the flow moving and gives people a chance to get to know each other. 

When I host a party in the winter, I like to light a fire in the fire pit on the back porch and make sure my outside lights are on. If someone wants to walk outside, it just makes for a nice touch instead of total darkness.

Make this easy simmer pot to give your home a yummy smell

1 whole orange
1/2 cup cranberries
1 tbsp. whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
a pinch of nutmeg
Combine ingredients with water and simmer on low throughout the party

Give your guest small favors such as homemade cookies, an ornament or small Christmas tree or poinsettia.

Have Fun! Give yourself time to freshen up and get ready for your guest. Mingle and spend time with your family and friends.

Cheers to enjoying the holidays!