At Home Entertaining
19 NOV 2021
At Home Entertaining
The Holiday season is here; shopping and decorating are a big part of the season. The most important part of the season is the opportunity to gather with family and friends. Entertaining at home is a wonderful and safe way to bring everyone together. We invite guests to our home to enjoy a more intimate celebration. Event planning looks easy but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, what sort of gathering are you planning? A weekend brunch, a multi course-plated dinner, a games night or a luncheon buffet are a few options. The list goes on, a potluck dinner or cookie swap or possibly an outdoor bonfire with cocoa and cider?
Prepare your guest list, select a date that works for your group. Everyone has a lot going on at this time of year. You may need to offer a few options initially until you can firm things up. Send out your invitations, a phone call and evite or possibly via group chat.
Plan your food menu, look for all the things you can prepare ahead. Keep in mind this is not the time to try new recipes. Double check your shopping list, don’t forget the miscellaneous items. Don’t turn down help, let family and friends bring things. Delegate different parts of the meal, let Gramma bring her homemade cranberry sauce. Have the event catered, don’t be the frantic host. Keep it simple so there is more time to enjoy the event.
Beverages may include food and wine pairing for the smaller plated dinner event. Consider a feature festive cocktail and add a few craft beers. Mulled cider and hot chocolate with a Baileys liqueur are perfect for the winter night out skating or carolling! Sunday brunch is a perfect time for prosecco or mimosas! Don’t forget to have some non-alcoholic beverages available. Regarding alcoholic beverages, being a responsible host means ensuring your guests get home safely. See the L.C.B.O website for more responsible service tips.
What about decorations and music? You set the mood with a play list of your favourite Christmas or jazz music. Christmas décor is limitless, don’t forget to stage the table. Plated or buffet, use what you already own, a festive tablecloth, candles, and Christmas ribbon. For larger events rent what you don’t own, don’t forget to have sufficient glassware for beverages.
And lastly, we are still conscious of promoting healthy behaviours that reduce the spread of COVID-19. Guests should stay home when appropriate. Physical, social distancing is still a thing, 6 ft or two arm lengths apart. Staff and attendees may be encouraged to wear masks. Hand hygiene is important, have hand sanitizer readily available.
Entertaining at home should be fun, make the best of the time we can spend with family and friends. Don’t forget to enjoy yourself as well… leave the clean up until tomorrow!
All the best for a great party and a wonderful holiday season!
Beverly Finlayson, Clubhouse Manager