November 4, 2025
What to serve?
So you are going to do the holiday meal. Deciding what to serve is the first step. Most classic meals include the main dish, potatoes, vegetables, bread and dessert.
No clue what to serve? Google holiday menu ideas. Once you have planned the meal, put together a grocery list. I try to buy the non-perishables and the main dish ahead of time, so that all that is left to buy is the fresh perishables.
Depending on how many people are coming, ask for help. Take people up on bringing food. Be specific as to what you want them to bring so it fits with your meal plan.
Buying all the ingredients for a holiday meal can add up fast. A simple lasagna, rolls and Christmas cookies are a good option.
Don’t cook? Ordering pizza is just fine, too. After all, it’s more about spending time together.
Meal planning
Another important step is to figure out how many you are cooking for, as well as, how many dishes need to bake in the oven. Will they all fit? What oven temperature does each one bake at? You may need to adjust the temperature and baking time to bake a couple things at the same time.
What can you make the day before? The crockpot is a great option for making a side dish.
Dishes
How many guests are you having? Do you have enough dishes? Chairs?
Washing as many of the prep dishes as possible (my husband’s job) will help keep you organized and on track.
Setting the table
Setting the table the day before is a time saver and is lovely for your guests to walk in and see.
I like to buy flowers for the table. Just make sure that they aren’t too tall, so your guests can’t see each other across the table.
I buy special napkins and put some candies or cookies at each place setting.
Being a good host
Keep in mind any dietary restrictions, including allergies of your guests. It can save the uncomfortable feelings of having to exclude a guest from something you are serving.
Your single or elderly guests may benefit from having leftovers to take home for another meal. Have disposable containers available so when you offer, you can put them together easily.
Last thoughts
Hosting is a lot of work, but with a little planning it can go smoothly leaving you with many great memories with your guests.
By being prepared and not doing everything last minute, you can host a stress free dinner party.
Kelly