When hosting a Christmas party, to be honest, it’s never good to take on too much or obsess over the details. Luckily, hosting a great Christmas dinner or Christmas lunch, particularly during this year… doesn’t have to be about perfection but should be about simplicity, having fun–and being present. Here, the CF team is taking you through the essentials of throwing the stress-free Christmas party that you’ll actually be able to enjoy.

 THE MENU 

Forget about the cooking stress, pick a menu that can be prepped and cooked earlier in the day. Personally, I like getting things done ahead. Think: grilled proteins, from chicken and fish, paired with a few summery grilled veggies and grain salads. Any tip? Marinate the main proteins overnight. Throw them on the grill the next day and finish with a pinch of sea salt.

THE FLOWERS

What is a good table setting without floral notes?

Seasonal and unfussy flowers are the way to go. Just keep it simple by choosing one or two varieties. Put your favourite blooms in classy yet chic vases or in wine bottles, mason jars, or anything else you have around the house.

Christmas party flowers

REFILL S’IL VOUS PLAÎT

When it comes to the drinks, forget serving any sugary cocktails and stick to wines that are all-natural, lower in alcohol and calories. Any of us want people to worry about how many glasses they’re drinking—start with some bubbles (a great way to kick-off the dinner, perfect with anything starter-wise), a fresh white (full —so perfect with vegetables, seafood, and summer weather), and a chillable red —

Christmas party

THE CHRISTMAS PARTY TABLE

The table setting is one of the biggest and stressful parts of hosting a party so go for simple classic glasses that make the perfect water–chic wine–glass–and complement napkins and placemats in white linen and straw.

Christmas party
Christmas party

THE ESSENTIALS

Let’s talk about essentials – A minimal linen apron will compliment any outfit–and keep whatever you’re planning on wearing on the day protected during those last minutes of preparation. Also, keep the restroom ready for your guests – I love this GA Christmas duo (lotion and hand soap) is extra hydrating when you’re on dish duty, plus looks fantastic in any shelve. 

EXTRA SEATING

What about if you don’t have enough sits for all your guest? no worries put some pillows and throw blankets on the ground with a bucket of wine, a plate of good cheeses, some crackers and voilà. It creates a cozy space for people to sit down and sets a nice vibe, before or after dinner.

Christmas party