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It’s our first year hosting holiday events, and I’m in full-on preparation mode. As a former teacher, I live by schedules, lists, and all types of organization. It helps me not feel like I’m losing my head on the day of. After all, I want to be able to enjoy myself too! I’m sharing a few helpful tips that I anticipate will make your holiday gathering, and the days leading up to it super relaxed and enjoyable.

TIPS FOR HOSTING YOUR FIRST HOLIDAY GATHERING

 

1. Keep a schedule on the day of.

It can be difficult to keep focused when there are one million things that need to get done, right? That’s why I like to have a visual of my schedule so I don’t have to feel scatter-brained. It helps keep me on track, and to tackle my to-do list. On the day of your gathering, consider writing out an hour-by-hour plan. Include things like meal-prep, setting the table, and getting yourself ready! The Samsung Family Hub has a notepad app where you can type out notes on your fridge or on your phone to send them to your Family Hub. I use it to write out reminders for myself or others. Keeping the schedule front and center when you’re spending tons of time in the kitchen is invaluable!

2. Capitalize on make-ahead recipes.

I plan to make several recipes that I can prepare and toss in the oven the day of. I also love freezer-friendly recipes. My healthy, no bake energy bites are a wonderful appetizer or dessert option. They don’t require baking, freeze wonderfully, and they’re super healthy and delicious. You can make a big batch for dessert and forget about them until the day of your gathering.

If you’re like me, though, freezer and make-ahead recipes are problematic since fridge space can be limited. I absolutely love that the Family Hub has the fourth compartment “Flex option” that you can use to your advantage. You can adjust the temperature to a regular freezer temp, a soft freeze (perfect for ice cream or sorbets), meat & fish temps, or just a regular refrigerator! My friend uses hers as a wine chiller, which is absolutely genius. The fridge even came with it’s own wine rack!

3. Create a gathering-friendly playlist.

As much as I love Sigur Ros, I doubt my grandparents or great aunts will be as into him or his quirky voice. Therefore, creating a playlist for the day of is important! They need to be songs that are easy to eat to, and make you feel light and happy as you sip wine, eat delicious food, or chat about the football game.

I created a “Thanksgiving Playlist” on Spotify featuring some of my favorite (more neutral) artists like Kenny G, Norah Jones, Iron & Wine, and many more! I love that I can play Spotify or Pandora through my refrigerator. It’s such a step up from listening to music through my phone speakers, haha.

    

4. Don’t do it all alone.

Contrary to what some may think, you don’t have to do EVERYTHING by yourself! Recruit help! I put Gracie to work in the kitchen, and sometimes I put my husband to work too! It’s more fun to do things together anyway. I’m sure your guests won’t mind helping serve drinks or pitching in to set the table. Try to relax and enjoy yourself – it is, after all, the most wonderful time of the year! 🙂

I truly hope these tips were helpful to you! I’m super nervous about my first time hosting a gathering, but I’ll keep you posted on how it goes!

Thank you so much for reading!

Are you hosting family for the holidays?