How to Be a Great Holiday Host or Hostess

With the holiday season upon us many will be acting as a host or hostess. This is a unique and special time of the year when families and friends come together to celebrate. When they are coming to your home you are automatically deemed host, or hostess. Here's ten tips on being a great host or hostess, and pulling off a family gathering successfully!

1. The first tip that will help you to be a great host or hostess is to relax. Even if it is weeks before the big day your stress level determines how the day will unfold. Don't get nervous or overwhelmed. If you take the time to plan it out and remain relaxed everything will go wonderfully.

2. The second tip that will help you pull off a successful family gathering is to do as mentioned in tip number one, plan ahead. Waiting until the last minute to make preparations sets you up for disaster. No one wants that! Take at least three weeks or so to plan out everything from the décor, to the seating and what's going to be served.

3. The third tip is to send invitations at least two weeks ahead of time. It's a good idea to include a RSVP number on each invitation. Doing this means that potential guests will let you know if the can make it or not by calling that number. Having an accurate idea of who will be attending and how many they will bring with them will help you to plan a perfect day for everyone.

4. The fourth tip on being a great host or hostess is to get your home ready for guests. At least one week before the event you'll want to make sure that everything is clean from top to bottom. Clear out clutter, dust, get those floors cleans, and even wash the dusty drapes. When people enter your home they will notice everything. Feel confident in knowing your home is clean as they look around. A great host or hostess often gives their guests a quick tour of their home. This is done for people who don't visit often, and also to show guests where the bathroom is. Having your home tidy will ease your mind and delight your guests.

5. The fifth tip on having a successful family gathering is to decorate for the occasion. For the Christmas holiday wreaths are hung, lights are aglow, and ornaments gracefully hang from the tree. Decorating for Christmas helps to get guests, and you, in the mood for celebration, togetherness and festivity. It also enhances the Christmas spirit, making people feel good and at ease. Don't overdo it though. Decorate lightly, with taste. Using too many decorations can be overwhelming and dizzying.

6. The sixth tip on being a great host or hostess is to do as much before the big day as you can. Prepare pies, cookies, and side dishes the day or night before so that you don't spend all day cooking. No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen while they have guests.

7. The seventh tip on being a great host or hostess is to greet each guest at the door. Welcome them and thank them for coming. Let them know that you appreciate their attendance. Offer to take their coats, and then give them that quick tour. Let them know where the restroom is, and where the drinks and other pre-meal appetizers are located. With such a wonderful welcome they'll certainly feel at ease and glad they came.

8. The eighth tip on having a successful family gathering is to have the table set up before the guests arrive. From glasses, plates, bowls, and silverware to napkins, and a flower center piece. A well set table that is set before the meal is served saves time for you, the host or hostess, and also acts as décor. A flower centerpiece adds a delightful touch. Choose a glass vase and fill it with red carnations, red roses, and some white delicate flowers. The white and the reds combine with the green of the leaves and are perfect for Christmas.

9. The ninth tip on being a great host or hostess is to dress the part. It's a fancy day and deserves a nice dress or suit. Put on your best jewelry, or cuff links. Dress to impress and you certainly will. This makes you feel good, and proud to be entertaining. It also gives your guests the idea that you have dressed up for their company. This is really a good thing. It makes the guests feel special, and important.

10. The tenth and final tip that will help you to have a successful family gathering and to be a great host or hostess is to keep the conversation both friendly and flowing. A great way to start conversation with a guest who doesn't have much to say is by offering a compliment. Conversation brings families closer together. It also makes the time spent together more memorable and relaxed. Thanks for reading and take care!