The holidays are all about tradition and that’s a good thing. However, sometimes we long for just a little something new–an idea or two that we haven’t considered before. We think it’s time to see what the experts have to say about holiday entertaining. Perhaps they’ll give us a new perspective to inspire our 2013 holiday parties and family get-togethers.
“Plan everything, do everything, then let it go.” —fashion designer Diane Von Furstenberg via House Beautiful
This tip in one simple sentence embodies the designer’s approach to entertaining during the holidays or any time of the year. Remember the reason you’re entertaining in the first place is to assure your family and friends have a good time. That’s only possible if you too are relaxed and happy.
“When dressing the holiday table, think seasonal rather than holiday-specific. Pair jewel-toned linen for table cloths with traditional decorative accents such as a miniature pine or rosemary tree. When the style is festive and wintery, you don’t have to worry about taking it down on December 26th!” —blogger Mandy Kellogg Rye of Waiting on Martha via House Beautiful
“Don’t rearrange the chairs all against the wall just because you are having a large party. People like to see a beautiful interior.” —designer Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz via House Beautiful
We think this is a great tip. Even though just about any holiday party will require some extra seating, not all the furnishings need to be moved about throwing the room’s beautifully arranged structure that you have so carefully put together over time into disarray in a moment or two.
“Let nature be your inspiration. When it comes to table decor, ask your florist for berries and holly, or look in your yard for any evergreen plants that you can trim branches from. Tie in ferns and pine cones, too — they add a rustic tone to the table and make a lovely alternative to a big floral centerpiece.” —stylist Alison Attenborough via Williams-Sonoma
“Offer a choice of desserts — something sweet and sinful like a peach crisp with vanilla ice cream and something lighter like poached pears. Guests usually take some of each.” —designer Bunny Williams via House Beautiful
Here’s one last tip, a stunningly simple approach to decorating for the holidays. Makes us think “why didn’t I think of that.”
“You don’t want your home to feel like a cheesy Christmas mall installation, you want it to be unique and full of your own personal style! Your holiday decor will work best if it works with your regular home asthetic so find ways to tie them together.” –wedding and entertaining expert David Tutera via Elle Décor.
We hope you are inspired by these tips for holiday entertaining from the experts. What are your favorite holiday tips?
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