Happy Holidays! We are only six days away from Christmas. Hard to believe the season is upon us and we are almost into another year.
During the holiday season, we tend to think of Santa, reindeer, gifts, holiday parties, snow (depending on where you live) and Christmas Day dinner. This is also a season that brings on a great deal of stress from gift shopping to planning for that special dinner with family and friends.
This year learn to be a guest at your own table. A few tips that will aid in preparing for dinner all the while relieving some of the stress you may experience.
Tip #1 – Be organized and prepare a checklist. Check this list at least three or four times.
Tip #2 – Delegate, delegate, delegate! I can’t stress this enough. Let your family members (those with whom you share a house) help check off that list. Even the smallest person in the house can help with some of the smaller chores or task on the list.
Tip #3 – Grocery shop at least three to four days before the dinner (hopefully, you have enough refrigerator or freezer space). Shopping early will allow you to beat those last minute shoppers – remember you were one of those people just last year. Prepare as many dishes as possible at least two to three days ahead of time and freeze.
Tip #4 – Don’t feel the need to prepare all the dishes. You may feel awkward but ask your guests to bring a dish or two. Most people won’t mind and will feel obligated to do so.
Tip #5 – Are you playing music during dinner? Download music on your IPOD or MP3 player at least four days before dinner. About 15 minutes before guests arrive, set your music player of choice to continuous play.
Tip #6 – Decide on your tablescape and sketch it out at least a week in advance. Decorate the table no less than two days before dinner except for any fresh flowers you may be including in your tablescape.
Tip #7 – The day of dinner – PLAN AHEAD! Complete dinner AND place any remaining tablescape items at least 30 to 45 minutes before guests arrive. Within 15 minutes of guest arriving, don’t forget to light the candles and start the music.
Tip #8 – When the doorbell rings, take a deep breath and enjoy your stress free holiday dinner.
What are some of your tips that allows a stress – free day? Please share.
I am also sharing a few photos from my 2010 holiday decor. I’m not a professional photographer which is why I ALWAYS contract out! Enjoy!
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