Tis the season for festive gatherings, and as a single girl, you can definitely get in on the holiday hostess action!
I don’t know about you, darling, but I love having my loved ones in my home (even if it is just 750 sq. feet). Something about girls’ nights, with women gathered around my kitchen island, sharing laughs and sipping wine, makes my heart happy.
But, I know that hosting can be a bit stressful, especially during this particularly merry and busy time of year. So here are some tips and tricks to help you enjoy single girl holiday hosting, and spread lots of holiday cheer!
Make the Most of Your Space
If you’re in a small space like I am, don’t let that stop you! You can make the most of what you’ve got!
Utilize every surface
In my small-ish apartment, everything gets used when needed. My buffet table becomes a drink station, and my desk has been used for extra set-up before. Throw a table cloth over it and make it part of your party space! Use side tables, coffee tables, and counters. And if you don’t have a dining table, you can set up a casual buffet or smaller stations in different locations.
Use foldable furniture
Invest in a few foldable chairs or tables that you can easily tuck away when not in use, giving you more flexibility and extra seating without sacrificing space.
Cozy floor seating
Use large throw pillows, cushions, and blankets to create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. This works great for a smaller space and encourages a more laid-back vibe if you’re doing a cozy night in with friends.
Lighting
Candles (only the clean kind, please!) and small lamp lighting can really make a space! You can also use light-up essential oil diffusers (again, only the safe oils, please!) to give that extra dose of warm ambiance.
Keep it simple
You don’t have to do a whole dinner party if you don’t have the resources or bandwidth, darling! There are plenty of ways to make food, drinks, and clean-up much easier for your single girl holiday hosting.
Potluck Style
Let guests bring a dish, especially if they enjoy cooking or baking. It’s a fun way to incorporate variety and allow everyone to share something they love!
Charcuterie, please!
Call me crazy, but charcuterie boards are one of my hosting staples, especially a cute holiday one like this! They’re great for something festive and pretty for your guests, and offer a nice meeting spot as people mingle. You can expand this theme and keep it to small finger foods and tapas-style eats.
Self-service food and drink stations
From a waffle bar setup for a brunch to a drink station with all the ingredients for a cocktail party, you can let guests make their own for some hands-on fun, and to reduce the need for prep work.
Signature holiday drink
Instead of stocking the whole bar, you can create a simple, festive drink like a spiked cider or mulled wine that can be made in large batches. You can also offer a non-alcoholic version, like a cranberry spritzer. You can have this option accompany a couple of wines to give lots of options without a ton of investment.
Disposable dishes
If you’re short on dishware or short on time, use disposable plates and utensils. You can also use colorful paper straws or cups to add a festive touch without the clean-up hassle. This is such a time saver and makes clean-up a breeze!
Prep in Advance
Prep food ahead of time
If you are cooking a meal, maybe choose a few recipes that can be prepped in advance. Desserts can usually be made the day before, and perhaps the slow cooker can handle the main dish while you focus on your guests.
Clean early!
Declutter your space and do a deep clean earlier in the week, so you aren’t scrambling to tidy up last-minute, when you want to be focusing on the more fun prep for hosting.
Decorate the day before
Set the stage and arrange any decorations or larger set-up the day before. Trust me, you won’t be sorry!
Personal touches
Handmade Favors
You can make simple, inexpensive party favors like personalized cookies, holiday-themed bookmarks, or festive chocolate boxes. These things add a sweet touch and can really put a personalized bow on your event.
Traditions
Tis the season for holiday traditions! You can start some of your own or share something that your family practices. Adding these personal things helps to create an atmosphere where everyone feels truly welcome.
Wishing you all the merriment of the season, whether you’re hosting on not, darling!
If you’re throwing a soiree this year, whatever the size, I would love to hear about it and how you used these single girl holiday hosting tips! For more holiday tips, be sure to check out our 12 Days of Singleness blog!
