A shopping guide for the ultimate holiday host
Getting ready to host for the holidays? Learn about all the essentials you need to create a warm, welcoming space that’s perfect for entertaining.
Key takeaways
Cozy seating sets the tone for holiday gatherings. Versatile furniture like sectional sofas and ottomans create a comfortable space for guests to relax and enjoy.
A flexible dining setup is key to effortless entertaining. Extendable or round tables and mixed dining chairs help accommodate groups of all sizes while keeping things stylish.
Smart kitchen appliances simplify holiday cooking. Double ovens, warming drawers, and stand mixers can make meal prep easier and more efficient.
Don’t forget appliances and tech that elevate the experience. Upgraded fridges, sound systems, and guest-ready mattresses ensure your home is ready for every moment.
More than half (54%) of households will host a family get-together this year, according to Snap Finance. If you’re planning to open your home to family and friends, you’ll want to make sure your space is inviting and comfortable and that you have the appliances you need to whip up your favorite holiday recipes.
But where do you start? This guide will walk you through the essentials every holiday host needs to make entertaining a breeze.
Set the scene with cozy seating
Comfort is key when hosting for the holidays. Your guests will spend hours chatting, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company, so ensuring you have enough seating is crucial. Most retailers offer a wide range of options for central living areas. With nearly 75% of furniture purchases made for living or family rooms, it’s easy to see why there are so many choices available.
Consider investing in versatile furniture such as sectional sofas or ottomans that can double as additional seats or even storage. These pieces also contribute to a cozy atmosphere where guests can relax and feel right at home.
If you’re hosting overnight guests and are limited on space, sofa beds can be a game-changer. They effortlessly transform your living room or office into a cozy sleeping space for friends and family. The perfect blend of style and function, sofa beds come in various designs to suit your decor.
Gather around the perfect dining table
A well-chosen dining table is the heart of any holiday gathering. Whether you have a spacious dining room or a cozy kitchen corner, an extendable table helps you accommodate intimate dinners to larger celebrations. Round tables are also great for smaller spaces, fostering conversation and togetherness. Opt for a durable and easy-to-clean material such as wood or metal to ensure your table can withstand the inevitable spills and messes that come with holiday meals.
Don’t forget about comfortable and stylish dining chairs. They not only add to the overall aesthetic of the room but also provide support for guests during long dinners and game nights. Consider mixing and matching different chair styles for a unique and eclectic look. Bring those mismatched chairs into your living room for extra seating during holiday gatherings. It’s a simple way to ensure everyone has a spot to relax and enjoy the festivities.
Bake your favorite holiday recipes
Nothing says holidays like baked goods and holiday treats. Equip your kitchen with essential appliances such as a convection oven, which cooks evenly and quickly and is perfect for those last-minute cookie batches.
Take it a step further and invest in a double oven, which allows you to cook multiple dishes at different temperatures and makes meal prep a breeze. Some double ovens feature smart connectivity and intuitive cooking modes. When making a new dish, a smart system can prove especially helpful by monitoring progress, adjusting temperatures, and tweaking cooking times automatically. If you’re in a hurry, take advantage of various modes that skip preheating.
Finally, consider the holiday host’s secret weapon: warming drawers. They’re a simple solution for keeping dishes hot and ready to serve. Imagine the ease of maintaining the perfect temperature for appetizers, side dishes, and desserts without overcooking. Warming drawers can also successfully proof bread dough, keep towels toasty, or even melt chocolate for fondue.
Keep fresh foods fresh
A larger refrigerator is your ultimate ally during the holiday season, accommodating more dishes, beverages, and ingredients. The additional capacity means you can prepare ahead of time and store make-ahead meals, seasonal produce, and desserts without overcrowding. Featuring advanced technology such as humidity-controlled crispers and adjustable shelving, a larger refrigerator can keep your ingredients fresh for longer.
Must-have kitchen gadgets and small appliances
Elevate your hosting with handy kitchen gadgets and smaller appliances. How about a wine cooler to ensure your reds and whites are served at the perfect temperature? Proper humidity levels and temperatures can help preserve your collection.
If you’re hosting a party, you’re going to need ice. Keep the party going with a portable or built-in ice maker. If you have the space, consider installing a built-in model beneath your kitchen counter for easy access. For smaller spaces, a portable ice maker can make a big difference in your hosting experience.
A stand mixer is an essential tool for many kitchen tasks, from kneading dough to whipping meringues and batters. Enjoy hands-free operation that lets you multitask to help with holiday meal prep.
Simplify clean-up with efficient appliances
After the celebration, the last thing you want is to spend hours cleaning up. Newer dishwashers with advanced cleaning cycles can handle large loads and stubborn stains, saving you time and effort. Look for models with quiet operation so you can run them during gatherings without disrupting the mood.
Enhance the ambiance with sound systems and electronics
Music sets the tone for any gathering, from soft background melodies during dinner to upbeat holiday classics for a lively party. Invest in a quality sound system that provides rich, clear audio throughout your home. If you plan to screen holiday movies, a good TV with high-resolution display ensures everyone enjoys a cinematic experience.
If you really want to wow your guests with recent top tech gadgets, check out this guide to top tech and electronics.
Ensure overnight comfort with quality mattresses
If your holiday festivities extend into sleepovers, make sure your guests are as comfortable during the night as they are during the day. A good-quality mattress is essential for a restful night. Consider offering options such as memory foam pillows or plush duvets to enhance their stay.
The way people shop for mattresses is rapidly evolving. You may find your mattress at a mattress or furniture store near you or join the millions of consumers that shop online for a bed-in-a-box.
Creating your holiday home
The holidays are a time for togetherness, reflection, and joy. With the right preparations, you can offer your guests a welcoming and enjoyable experience they’ll remember. From comfortable seating to delightful treats and restful nights, every detail contributes to the festive spirit in your home and around your table.