There’s no doubt that hosting during the holiday season is a learned skill that gets better with practice. I’ll never forget the first Christmas bash I attempted to throw singlehandedly — I was way too ambitious with the labor-intensive food, the detailed decor, the guest list and the gifts, and the hours leading up to the event can only be described as sheer mayhem. These days, I’m proud to say that I’ve mastered the art by keeping it simple, and I’ve built up an arsenal of tips and shortcuts that are total lifesavers around this time of year. Today we’re teaming up with Keurig Rivo to share some of that hard-earned wisdom with 8 tricks that’ll have you hosting a holiday get-together — and relishing it! Plus, we’re giving away two of Keurig’s amazing new Rivo systems, just in time for holiday gifting. Keep reading for all the details!
1. Streamline your holiday decor.
By keeping ornaments and decor to one color scheme, it’s easy to ensure that your home and tree are cohesive and consistent. I committed to a white and silver palette years ago, and mix it up each season by introducing different accent colors like red, green and gold.
2. Wrap as you buy.
Save yourself from gift wrapping chaos by wrapping presents as they’re purchased. Not only does this keep you from cramming last minute, but it allows you to be more laid back and creative with each present.
3. Have freshly baked cookies ready to go at all times.
Make your favorite cookie dough from scratch ahead of time, then freeze it so that you’re always ready to roll it out and bake a fresh batch when unexpected holiday visitors stop by.
4. Wow your guests by being your own at-home barista with the Keurig RIVO system.
Whether guests want a double espresso or an iced soy latte, be prepared to brew the perfect cup at the touch of a button. With this system, it’s never been easier to brew and enjoy authentic Italian espresso in your home.
Enter to win one of two Keurig RIVO systems by leaving a comment on this blog post by Friday, December 19th, letting us know what you do to keep your holiday hosting under control!
*update: winners have been selected, and this giveaway is now closed.
5. Go for the green.
In lieu of an expensive floral arrangement, keep the table green this year by taking leftover branches from your tree and using them as part of your centerpiece. Fill in with tall taper candles and votive to play with height and add a festive glow.
6. Set a crafty kids table.
Keep the kids entertained with a butcher paper-topped table that makes dinner time a lot more fun. Set out christmas stickers and plenty of crayons for hours of entertainment.
7. Expect the unexpected.
Forgot someone on your list? Not a problem when you keep a few extra gifts on hand that are wrapped and ready to go. Some fool-proof items: scented candles, soaps and lotions, barware and bottles of bubbly.
8. Always be party-ready with a festive holiday playlist.
At the start of the season, arrange a playlist that’s perfect for a holiday gathering (or simply bookmark ours on Spotify!). When guests drop by, all you’ll need to do it press play to get the party started.
