Need help with hosting a stress-free Christmas dinner? Don't let the thought of hosting a momentous occasion such as Christmas dinner be intimidating. We have created a checklist, to save you both time and frustration. Download the free GWS How to Host Christmas Dinner Checklist, and it will guide you step-by-step (with a timeline) through the preparations needed so you can confidently pull the big day off without a hitch. Here's to effortless and stress-free hosting.
1. Start Early
2. What To Include On Invitations
3. Stock Up On Supplies
4. Prepping Saves The Day
5. Hosting Tips (you'll be glad you know)
Start Early
Earlier than you may think. I like to start 4 weeks out. By starting to plan early, it will allow you time to be completely prepared on the big day, instead of running around putting out fires (figuratively, not literally I hope.) And by planning early on, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your guests on the big day, since your objective as a host is to bring together family and friends to create memorable moments. Planning allows you to be present in the moment. The moments that matter.
Invitations need to be sent as early as possible because everyone's schedule is hectic around the holidays. Beginning early gives you time to plan a menu, know the number of guests, make purchases, and prep so you will have less to do in the days leading up to Christmas Day. Having a timeline and checklist will alleviate stress so you will be rested and confident for your guests.
What to Include on Invitations
Casual invitations work best I think. Group texts or emails allow you to reach out to everyone at once and they make it easy to keep track of how many guests are planning on coming. A few things to include on an invitation are the dress code, if it's casual, formal, or you'll be eating outside and bring a jacket, etc. If you're having a potluck, include what dish the guests should bring. It also helps to include what time guests are welcome to begin arriving to socialize and what time the meal begins. These simple things usually help guests know what to expect and that makes everyone feel more relaxed. At this point, you will need to decide your guest list, plan a menu, or if you want to make it a potluck. People feel more at ease when they participate so consider asking each guest to bring a side dish and make it a potluck. Potlucks can be a lot of fun.
Stocking Up On Supplies
Starting your stocking preparations early means you won't run into the last minute problems of hams or turkeys selling out (it happens), not having enough ice, silverware, or chairs for example. These simple things can be easily overlooked unless you plan in advance. Once you have an idea of the number of guests you'll have and your menu, do a trial run in your head. Mentally run through a rehearsal of tables, chairs, dinnerware, utensils, or serving ware. Now is the time to purchase extras if you'll need it. If you need more table space or chairs, a great resource to consider is renting tables and chairs from a party rental store. At two weeks out, purchase the turkey or ham, and nonperishable foods. This is also a good time to finalize any decorations for the table.
Prepping Saves the Day
I'm a firm believer in prepping because being prepared avoids chaos at a later time. Things don't always go perfectly, so it helps to think through possible frustrations that may pop up on the big day. So here are just a few other tips to help you out.
One crucial to planning is to evaluate the menu and make a cooking schedule before the big day. This may sound overly dramatic, but on Christmas Day when the ham is cooking for hours and you only have one oven, it is a life-saver to have a cooking schedule pre-planned. If you're hosting a potluck, this will help with freeing up the oven (another perk).
Desserts especially, as many desserts freeze well such as pies, cheesecakes, etc., These can be made in the days or weeks before and then thawed before serving. Bread dough can be pre-made and refrigerated, or side dishes can be prepared the day before, refrigerated, and then reheated quickly or use slow cookers on the big day.
The ham (or turkey) will need to rest after cooking and before carving, so you can utilize this time to bake last minute rolls or side dishes, and toss salads.
Pro Hosting Tips
As a host, your goal is to provide an opportunity to bring people together and create unforgettable moments. With a little planning and prep, you can easily do this without being stuck in the kitchen.
A favorite hosting tip of mine you'll use on repeat, is to set up an area for drinks with pre-made batched cocktails. Ahead of time, make a large pitcher or sangrias or punch so your guests can serve themselves. At a drinking area, also set out a pitcher of fruit water and wine. This will allow you to spend more time with your guest making meaningful conversation, rather than refilling drinks.
Another tip, is to ask the guests to help when they arrive. Put them opening the wine, or just setting out an appetizer, but it helps them feel a part of the celebration-putting them at ease.
And lastly, one tip that is easily forgotten at the last minute, is to stock/refresh the guest bath the morning before guests arrive, with paper, hand towels, soap, and candles.
Be sure to download and print your free Checklist if you haven't already! Also, if you enjoyed How to Host Christmas Dinner, and love Christmas home decor, check out Christmas Kitchen Island Decor Inspo, or Cozy Christmas Bedroom for more inspo. And don't forget to take a peek at our Gifting Guides if you need gift inspiration.
