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Hosting a large holiday dinner can feel like an epic challenge, especially if you’re juggling the roles of chef, entertainer, and peacekeeper among family dynamics. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro looking to streamline your process, these ten tips will help ensure that everything goes smoothly, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the festivities yourself.
1. Plan the Menu in Advance
Start by choosing a menu that caters to different tastes and dietary needs. Note any restrictions or preferences in advance. Look for sides and desserts that can be vegetarian, gluten-free, or lactose-free options. If unsure, ask guests about their needs beforehand. Keep it simple—limit side dishes and desserts to stay manageable.
2. Create a Timeline
Work backward from the time you plan to serve the meal to build a timeline for your cooking schedule. Include preparation, cooking, and resting times for each dish, and set alarms to keep you on track. Consider oven temperatures as well as cook times when planning ahead. If there’s anything you can make ahead of time, go ahead and do it the night before! This will help ensure that everything is ready at the same time without feeling rushed.
Speaking of meal time, set a reasonable expectation for yourself when inviting your guests over. If you’re not an early riser, don’t invite them over for an 11am meal –especially if you’re also cooking the turkey.
3. Delegate Tasks
Remember, you don’t have to do everything yourself. Accept help when it’s offered and don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to friends and family. Keep a list of easy options in mind for guests who offer to contribute, but may want some guidance on how to help—think decorative paper plates, napkins, rolls, or desserts.
Speaking of paper plates…**Trigger Warning** If you’re a hardcore meal hosting purist, be ready to clutch your pearls for this next one…
4. Make Paper Plates Part of the Aesthetic
Consider using disposable plates for dinner. Keep it chic with heavy duty classic white paper plates or opt for ones with a festive design that complements your table setting. This will add to the overall aesthetic of your meal and make clean up easier.
Seriously, how pretty are these “Give Thanks” paper plates? And it’s service for 50 people!
I’ve personally also started using recyclable aluminum pans for cooking and serving most of my side dishes. Trust me, there will still be plenty of dishes to wash after cooking, so don’t sacrifice the time with your guests for extra cleanup! Your guests–and your kids–will be happier to get more time with you. And if they don’t…they don’t have to come back next year!
Well, I guess the kids do…but they can get dish duty if they miss the porcelain that much! 😇
5. Set the Atmosphere
Create a welcoming environment by decorating your space ahead of time. Simple centerpieces, ambient lighting, and a carefully chosen playlist can enhance the dining experience and contribute to a memorable evening. I love these golden votive candle holders for a simple and chic look. (They don’t come with the candles, but can fit either flameless or regular tea lights, which I think is a plus!)
Don’t forget to take time to decide how the “traffic” is going to flow in your dining space. Is everyone sitting at one or more tables and food is being passed family style, or will there be a buffet style service line? Think it through ahead of time and arrange dining, serving, and seating areas accordingly.
6. Plan for Leftovers
When you’re hosting a dinner party, chances are there will be leftovers. But don’t let them go to waste! Plan ahead by preparing extra space in your fridge or providing take-home containers for guests. This way, you can avoid wasting food while also giving your guests the opportunity to enjoy your delicious meal again.
Consider buying a set of microwave-safe containers to have on hand so you and your guests aren’t scrambling to find matching lids, or figure out when to give your Tupperware back! This set is great just for that reason! They’re cheap, microwave-safe, and come in a pack of 30 for less than $24.
Another great tip is to label and store leftovers properly. Use clear containers and label them with the date and contents so you know exactly is in which and what day it was put away. You can use masking tape and a permanent marker for clear labeling and easy removal once it’s done.
7. Tidy Up Strategically
Focus on cleaning high-traffic areas like the living room, dining room, and bathroom. A great tip is, start at the front door and work your way toward where your guests will be. This way, you’ll put yourself in the shoes of someone entering your home and see what they’ll see as soon as they enter. Don’t stress about the fine details; guests are more interested in enjoying the company than inspecting your space.
8. Stick to a Budget
Decide on a budget upfront and stick to it. Plan meals around seasonal ingredients, which are often more affordable, and consider potluck-style gatherings, which are not only cost-effective but also add variety to the table. Don’t feel like you need to go all out with decorations either, simple touches can make a big impact.
9. Anticipate Younger Guests
Be prepared for youngsters who are coming if you’re having a larger gathering with families. Prepare a spot for them to play, set out coloring or other easy cleanup activities, and small snacks.
Check out these coloring placemats for kids! If you want something more involved, try these cups that kids can color and then use for dinner! (They’re giving, “not spilling my beverage everywhere” vibes.)
If you know you have a guest with a child and who is nursing or pumping, try to have a special space set aside ahead of time for them–that’s not the bathroom. Of course, you can also let them know that they are able to nurse or pump as necessary wherever they need. They’ll be very appreciative of the extra thought. Trust me!
10. Enjoy the Moment
Remember, the holidays are as much about cherishing the time spent with loved ones as they are about the meal itself. Once the table is set and everything is underway, allow yourself to step back and enjoy the company of your guests.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a holiday dinner that’s as delightful for you as it is for your guests. Just remember, the most important ingredient in your holiday recipe is a generous dash of fun and laughter.