The Easy Hosting Guide for a Stress-Free Holiday Night

1. Batch-prep a signature drink

When the doorbell rings and guests pile in like it’s Black Friday, nothing calms the chaos faster than a pre-batched cocktail. I love a big-batch mix placed in vintage decanters complete with a few spirits so guests can customize. Voilà: instant bartender vibes without you shaking martinis all night.

2. Track dietary restrictions

In the ever-evolving world of gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, sugar-free diets, nothing says “welcome” like a menu that makes everyone feel considered. Ask your guests well in advance if they have any allergies or preferences. Bonus: it might push you out of your culinary comfort zone and land you a new signature dish.

3. Handwrite the place cards

Even if a rogue plus-one appears at the eleventh hour, handwritten place cards announce to every guest that they were expected (psychic hosting, if you will). It’s a subtle but powerful way to keep anyone from feeling like they got the folding chair at the kids’ table.

4. Set the atmosphere, and do it early

Ambience is your silent co-host. Light the candles, hit play on the playlist, spritz the air—and do it at least 30 minutes before your guests arrive. Otherwise, you run the risk of answering the door in a towel and robe when you remember five minutes before go-time.

5. Host yourself, too

The golden rule: don’t overcomplicate the night (though I’m guilty of this on occasion). Set up a self-serve zone: a dessert bar, bubbly bucket or anything guests can help themselves to. It frees you up to actually enjoy the party and remind people why they like being around you in the first place.