5 Space-Saving Solutions for Holiday Hosts
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Are you hosting your family’s holiday gathering this year? Whether you’re a seasoned entertaining pro or a first timer, there’s one near certainty among the season’s chaos: You’ll run out of space quickly.
Between a crowd of guests, cluster of foods and collection of gifts, holiday parties – and the spaces they’re hosted in – tend to fill up fast. Give everyone a little room to breathe, eat and be merry with a few solutions that open up space in the kitchen and beyond.
Invest in Shoe and Coat Racks
It begins at the entryway where loved ones arrive and immediately shed layers from their winter journeys. Keep the area neat and tidy with clearly marked spaces for footwear and coats so a muddled mess of clothes and shoes aren’t the first things guests see when they arrive.
Create Designated Zones for Foods
If you’re hosting a potluck-style supper, or even if you’ll do all the cooking yourself, it’s helpful to cluster types of foods together. For example, appetizers, hors d’oeuvres and beverages should be served away from the main kitchen area so snacking guests can whet their appetites without getting in the way of any final meal prep. Station the main course and side dishes buffet style for ease and convenience then, similar to the appetizers, keep the desserts separate for later so they aren’t taking up valuable space during the meal.
Set Up a Kids Section
Step one for a peaceful party: Keep children occupied in their own zone with kid-friendly games and toys. Find a spot that’s away from the main entertaining space but easy enough to access for occasional supervision.
Clear Paths in High-Traffic Areas
Don’t make grandma navigate a sea of card tables and foldout chairs. Arrange furniture – including the food and drink tables – in a way that ensures there are clear paths between the entryway, kitchen, bathroom and anywhere else guests are welcome.
Designate Help for Cleanup
Recruiting assistance to clean up the mess is a surefire way to limit stress when the party is winding down, but be clear about how you plan to tidy up. Give each volunteer a specific task (picking up trash, putting away temporary furniture, cleaning dishes, etc.) to avoid cleanup chaos while ensuring your home is back in order before the evening comes to a close.
If you’re a holiday host extraordinaire, find us on Facebook to share your entertaining advice then check out our YouTube channel for festive recipe inspiration.
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