I think we all have a love/hate relationship with hosting. For me, a house full of people brings me joy but the prep work to get there can be a journey! Here are some ideas on where to focus your energy and attention before those big family and friend gatherings. Thanksgiving will be here before we know it and for me, it officially kicks off the holiday hosting season! Some things you are better to save the time and use cheater recipes or hacks, others are always worth the investment! I hope you have many happy gatherings in your home this fall and winter.
Keep a well stocked pantry and freezer
This one I got from my Momma! But also it’s talked about on other popular blog posts like Food & Wine. I personally love the Costco freezer section at this time of year, grab a box or two of frozen goodies and you are always ready for extra people popping by or a surprise guest! I also love the idea of having some grab and go breakfast items ready for your overnight visitors!
Don’t Discount the Dollar Store!
There are so many great finds and even brand names at our local dollar stores. You can easily pick up holiday themed dècor that looks cute and is really inexpensive. Anything for your table scape or even themed food containers are easy to find. Halloween things are already out and I have seen a few trickling out Christmas items! Shop early and start collecting things now, this will make it easier as you get closer to the big hosting date!
Embrace a Store Bought Short Cut
It is almost as if I wrote tip #6 from Better Homes & Gardens myself! We all love to make everything from scratch, but lets be real, you cannot do it all. Save yourself the time and pick up a store bought pie crust, or even dinner rolls from Cobs Breads. Your guests will not care and it allows you to focus on other tasks!
Don’t Do It all! Delegate!
This tip comes from our General Manager – do not be afraid to ask your guests to bring something! Have a family member that loves to bake? Let them take charge of dessert! Sister loves to make side dishes, ask her to bring a few. You do not need to do everything yourself if you are hosting! People are often wanting to assist, so rather than having them in the way in your kitchen, why not let them bring a dish or two to help you out?!
I hope this has given you a few ideas on how to make the up coming season of gathering a little less stressful. One final tip is about sofa beds! If you need a space for those last minute overnight guests, La-Z-Boy has sofa beds in stock that can easily convert a den or small space into a bedroom. Sofa beds offer the option of a day time reading nook or quiet place that quickly converts into a bedroom if you need it in a pinch! Stop by one of our showrooms in Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley or North Vancouver. Happy Hosting!
