Wednesday, December 20, 2017

7 Holiday Entertaining Tips



This post was created in partnership with Kohler Canada, however all opinions are my own and I only partner with quality brands that I truly love. 

Christmas is upon us! Less than one week, and my guess is that many of you will be hosting a gathering at some point throughout this holiday. To get your wheels turning I've listed 7 of my favorite entertaining tips that I try to adhere to, along with some photos of my own home this holiday to give you a peek into our Christmas. Throughout my home I've tried to utilize fresh greenery, like store-bought eucalyptus and cedar branches from my own backyard! By far the red ilex branches are my favorite - I hope to load that front entry vase up even MORE next Christmas. I've been very attracted to the pop of red against all the blue & white. Here are 7 entertaining tips to get you through this busy season:

1. Keep a limited menu - I love the idea of having one signature drink & and one special appy that takes a bit more prep and effort. Something that guests will remark on and ask you for the recipe. Maybe even have the recipe handy so they can jot it down! Or create something fun and interactive for them, like a hot chocolate bar with all the fixin's. As for the main course, hosting a party is not the time to try out a new dish, stick to those you do often and really well.

The display of food can be everything. I clip some greens from my Myrtle tree and tuck them in amongst mandarins in a bowl. The green is so pretty and it's SO fragrant.

2. Set your table in advance – Assess your dishware inventory and get creative with your serveware. This way you’ll be able to see if there is anything you’re missing well before the party date. I’ll typically start setting out my place settings several days before hand, so I can plan and I can reduce the workload as the date approaches. Don’t save the pretty dishes and cutlery! These are the times they were made for, and they’ll make even the smallest get-together feel more special. Enjoy them with your guests!

Mixing old and new; blue & white dishware from Bombay and vintage Belgian linens that were a very special gift. 

3. Keep the kitchen clean – I once read that if you have very limited time to clean up before guests arrive, focus on the major surfaces like tabletops and counters, they will be the most noticed! No one is really going to go and examine your baseboards. As well, when cooking for others, keeping things as sanitary as possible is always a good idea. The Kohler touchless foaming soap dispenser does some of that for you. Everything is going touchless these days and I for one think it will definitely promote better hygiene. Plus with this dispenser there is a 20-second lighted timer that lets you know how long to lather for, something helpful if you have little one’s that need a bit of guidance! 


 4. Make dishware accessible –  This way guests know exactly where to grab a clean plate or glass. I like the presentation of the Kohler wine glass drying rack which places glasses upside-down, and I've noticed that the practical outcome of course is less water spots on the glass.  Plus if you have limited dishware, a wine glass could be washed and re-used if someone wants to try the white after red. The rack itself folds up for very easy storage. Pretty and practical!


5. Make a play list - And have a specific person in charge of music. I'm personally really picky with music so it's hard for me to rely on those ready-made playlists. You may wish to invite your closest friend a little earlier to help you set things out and instruct them on making sure the music is always playing! 

6. Don’t overlook ambiance – Lighting is so important in creating a special and festive atmosphere. Put overhead lights on dimmers where possible. Use scented candles and sparkly string lights to add layers and watch your house glow! Testing out your planned lighting a couple of nights in advance will help make sure you’ve got it just right. 


7. Mingle like a pro – Be sure to chat with each of your guests even if just for a few minutes. Your job as the hostess is to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome. One of the most practical ways I find to do this is to leave the cleanup and dishes for after guests leave. Spend time connecting with people, the dishes aren’t going anywhere & there’s plenty of time the next day.

A huge thank you to Kohler Canada for partnering with me and supporting my blog! Truthfully I always thought of large items like toilets & tubs when I thought of their brand, so it was fun to learn about their new venture into luxurious and innovative products geared towards entertaining. If you are located in Vancouver be sure to pop into the Kohler Signature Store for unique gift items and maybe a present or two for your own kitchen ;) 

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1 comment:

Unknown said...

Loved your entertaining post! I love to entertain and it’s been difficult having a gutted kitchen for a remodel in our home and not be able to cook and entertain friends and family! All in good time they say, and it will be worth the wait!

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