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Ten tips for being the ultimate holiday host

Hailey Pearson

Holiday gatherings are a special time to connect with loved ones and reflect on the year. To make your celebrations memorable, you can add local flair with food, drinks, and decor, in addition to personalizing the experience for your guests via invitations, place cards, entertainment, and more. Shopping local and sharing about your experiences are the best way to give back to your bustling business community throughout the holiday season. To help with planning, we’ve compiled 10 tips to make your celebrations go off without a hitch.

1. Design stylish invitations

Regardless of the size of your gathering, invitations add an extra special touch. They will get your guests excited for what’s to come. Visit a local stationery store to customize the perfect invites for your celebration, or create your own using craft supplies. Did you know that you can purchase seasonal stamps, too? 

2. Add festive flair to your decor

Visit local boutiques to find the perfect pieces or hire a holiday decorating company to turn your home into a winter wonderland.

3. Hire a professional to clean your home

Spend your time and energy on the party details and let a professional take the wheel on getting your home sparkly clean for the holidays. Find a home cleaning service on Yelp by requesting a quote from multiple businesses so that you snag the best deal.

4. Comfort is key

Make sure that all of your guests have a comfortable spot to enjoy their meal. If your dining table won’t cut it, rent a table or two, chairs, and some linens from an event rental shop.

5. Plan your menu

Pick up your recipe ingredients from a locally owned grocer or farmers market, or make it easy by catering your meal from a local culinary pro. Keep your dishes varied to accomodate all dietary preferences.

6. Pour local libations

Visit your favorite wine shop, juice bar, brewery, or liquor store to check delicious libations off of your list. Adding a signature mocktail or cocktail to your menu will impress your guests. Don’t forget the garnish!

7. Create an inviting tablescape

Pick up festive placemats, napkins, glassware, candles, and more from a local home decor shop to add some glitz and glam to your celebration. Bonus: Personalized place cards and party favors at each seat will help your guests know exactly where to sit and add all the warm and fuzzies to their experience. 

8. Scatter floral arrangements around your home

Florals add fragrance and beauty! Flowers in a pumpkin? A sparkly garland for your table or fireplace? The options are endless with floral creations. Visit a flower market to make your own or hire a florist to help your vision come to life. 

9. Evening entertainment is essential

Fill your home with good tunes, provide conversation starters, or play games around the table! Need some inspo on what to do? Visit a game shop or record store to get the vibe you’re looking for.

10. Decadent desserts for the win

End your celebration on a sweet note by providing a decadent dessert (or three) that will leave a lasting impression with your guests. Pre-order from a dessert shop or make your own by picking up fresh ingredients from a local market. Make sure to accommodate all by including vegan options in the mix!

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