Most of us get a little anxious about hosting. We worry if our home is clean enough and aesthetically appealing, or if the menu is pleasing to everyone. Take a deep breath, let go of all your worries. Let's talk about how to enjoy yourself and your wonderful guests. Here are five simple steps to a more joyful holiday gathering.
We're all self-conscious about our homes. Be intentional. Look around with fresh eyes or invite a friend to help with theirs and clear your space of unnecessary clutter. Even if this means removing a lamp or photograph temporarily and putting the holiday items in its place. Once you make everything clutter free, you will feel more at ease and confident about your home. It's easier to be festive once the worry is gone.
A light cleaning and scented candles are always a good thing.
The easiest task you can cross off your checklist: simply set the table the night before.
People begin to arrive and you have too much on your mind, so you forget to offer them a drink. Instead, make the drinks accessible where your guests can see them. People instantly feel at ease when they're holding something.
If you can't offer a beverage personally, have a glass pitcher or bowl with glasses around it.
Quite often, you do not realize how long cooking will take or something unexpected occurs. It's always a stress reducer to have your outfit planned early and setting aside ample time for hair and makeup. This will make a huge impact on eliminating anxiety.
Once your guests start arriving, throw your worries to the holiday atmosphere. Enjoy this special time capturing what matters most which is making special memories with family and friends.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us at Gwyn Roberts!
Tonya Raines is the owner of design studio and resale shop Gwyn Roberts, located at 333 2nd Ave., in South Charleston. Store hours are Tuesday - Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and by appointment. For more information, call 304-553-2466, and follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GWYNWYSB.
A favorite family drink recipe:
Lemon Lime Sherbet Punch
1 packet of Lemon Lime Kool Aid
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of water
1 2-liter bottle of Sprite
1 46-oz can of pineapple juice (not concentrated)
1 48-oz carton lime sherbet.
Prep the Kool Aid mixture and pour into ice trays to freeze overnight.
Mix the rest of the ingredients in a large bowl and top it off with the Kool Aid ice cubes.
This recipe is very simple, yet very popular.