8 Tips for hosting a holiday party at home

The holidays are here, and it’s your turn to host—but instead of excitement, you feel a sense of dread at what seems to be an overwhelming task. Your home isn’t Pinterest-worthy, you’re operating on a budget, and you’re not sure you can replicate the magic of grandmas’s living room on Christmas Eve. The reality is that holiday hosting rarely looks like it does in the movies. 

Don’t let stress make it a blue Christmas—at the end of the day, a holiday party is about the joy of celebrating together. If you need some help making it possible, these eight tips are sure to impress, meaning you’ll be rockin’ around the Christmas tree with your guests in no time.  

Prep early so you can live in the moment

Although it might seem obvious, it’s worth saying—get things done ahead of time, so you’re not stressing as the doorbell rings. Make yourself a budget and a to-do list that includes the less fun prep work, like cleaning common areas, moving furniture and washing dishes. If you have anything that needs to be cooked after guests arrive, do meal prep so you’re not chopping and chatting at the same time. The less you do just before guests arrive, the more relaxed you’ll be, and the more time you’ll get to spend with the people you invited. 

Add some festive decor 

Festive doesn’t have to mean fancy. Embrace your space's existing charm with simple additions, such as a tablecloth, holiday napkins, or string lights. Seasonal throw pillows and blankets are also a good way to instantly transform your space.  

Creating a holly jolly feel without overspending is about atmosphere, so consider adding a simmer pot to the stove or burning a scented candle to fill your home with a cozy aroma. A holiday playlist will also set the tone, which you can either curate ahead of time or let guests collaborate on when they arrive.  

Plan a menu that fits your crowd

If the idea of a classic turkey with all the fixings is intimidating, remember that a sit-down dinner isn’t the only way to host a successful gathering. You could go for a potluck and invite each guest to bring a dish of their own, cutting down on your time in the kitchen.  

Cookie exchanges are also a great way to share holiday cheer without having to take on all the work. Each friend can bring a batch, and you can swap recipes at the end of the night. Prefer to keep things light? Dips, canapés and other finger foods will allow your guests to mingle as they eat, meaning you won’t have to figure out how to fit a huge dining table in your tiny living room.  

You can even set up a self-serve drink station with a few options like spiced cider or a customizable hot chocolate bar, so you don’t have to worry about keeping everyone’s cup full all night.  

Don't be afraid to ask for help 

Too often, hosts think they need to do it all. Don’t make that mistake!  

The best way to ensure peace on earth—and in your home—is by reaching out to your friends and family to make it all possible. Whether that’s asking everyone to bring some food or inviting a few guests over early to help with setup, teamwork will make the whole day more fun. The party feels warmer (and more affordable) when everyone pitches in, and your loved ones will be happy to help when they know exactly how. 

Plan one easy activity 

If your guest list includes some unfamiliar faces, such as friends from different circles or partners who don’t know the rest of the group, a low-key activity can help break the ice. Think an ugly sweater competition with a casual vote and a silly prize, group trivia with quick-fire rounds or a table for making DIY ornaments so everyone can have something to take home. While you probably want to avoid over-scheduling, something simple will add just the right amount of structure and get the snowball rolling.  

Make leftovers a feature, not a chore 

Avoid food going bad in your fridge before you can eat it by thinking about leftovers in advance. Festive takeout boxes or inexpensive containers are easy to find, and you can set these up in the kitchen to make sure everyone can easily take food home. Providing a marker to label boxes will prevent any mix-ups on the way out the door.  

 It’s a small act of kindness that sends everyone home a little happier—no casserole left behind, just good food given a second life.  

Make guests feel at home 

Your own energy as a host is contagious and profoundly shapes the night. If you feel relaxed, present and open to a bit of imperfection, your guests will too. Welcome people at the door, make a few introductions if folks don’t know each other and check in periodically to see if anyone needs anything. Remember that it’s not about perfection, but about creating a space where everyone—including you—feels at ease. 

Save on party supplies

The holidays are an expensive time of year, but you don’t have to go broke just to gather with loved ones. Spread out your shopping over time to take advantage of deals rather than buying everything at full price right before your party.  

If you’re crafty, there are plenty of decorations you can make without spending too much, like popcorn and orange garlands or felt ornaments. Thrifting is also great for finding unexpected gems that will help you deck the halls.  

One of the best ways to dazzle your guests is by using your CAA Membership at stores where you can save or earn CAA Dollars, like Bouclair, Simons, Party Expert and more.