
Hosting this Holiday Season? 5 Tips and Tricks of the Trade.
Hosting this Holiday Season? 5 Tips and Tricks of the Trade.
Who wants to start thinking about the holidays when we haven't even gotten through Halloween? Not us! In the food and hospitality world, we have to stay a few steps ahead to ensure the best experience for our clients. Since we're already thinking of silver bells and evergreen garland, we thought we'd share some trade secrets. If you're looking for how to host the perfect holiday party, check out these 5 tips for hosting during the most wonderful time of the year.
Prepare Early
The holiday season often has us rushing around from friends' and family's houses, dance recitals, school performances, shopping trips, and more. The last thing we need is to add in the stress of last minute party preparations. In the days leading up to your event, set a laundry basket or storage tote in a corner of your dining room to place items as you purchase them. Put in the party platters and serving utensils you'll use, decorations, party favors, and more. Next, consider pre-cooking your food a day or two in advance, then reheating it when your guests arrive. In catering, we don't have the luxury of a from-scratch kitchen at every job site, so pre-cooked food is our recipe for success.
Timing is Everything
Be specific on your invitations about timing. If you invite guests for a 5pm party, tell them that apps will be served for an hour, then dinner at 6, then dessert and drinks at 7:30. Your guests may multiple parties to visit, and no one wants to arrive in the midst of a meal! Sharing specific info allows your guests the grace of bowing out of a portion of your event without being rude.
Turn on the Crock Pot
Crock pots aren't just for working parents making weeknight meals. They make for easy appetizers for your holiday party, too. Offering a delicious soup ā like a tomato bisque or Italian wedding ā ensures every guest is greeted with a hot appetizer when they arrive, regardless if they show up on time. Supplement that with a couple rounds of pre-plated cold appetizers that you pass to each new arrival, and no one will feel like they've missed a moment.
Host after the New Year
As people become more aware of respecting each other's "mental load," we are seeing a trend of moving holiday parties to January. This is especially true in the corporate world, where employers are trying to be more respectful of family time. Many companies are choosing to host their staff parties in the first few weeks of the year so they are not taking time away from families during the holidays. And, sometimes it means better pricing, too.
Play to Your Strengths
Are you an incredible decorator, but tend to overcook your roasts and burn your baked goods? Or maybe you're a whiz in the kitchen, but a terrible housekeeper. Don't be scared to delegate tasks, and even consider outsourcing to the professionals. Hiring a cleaner or a caterer isn't against the rules, and it may just save your sanity.
With 50 years of experience, Mamma Mia's is a beloved family restaurant known for its homemade Italian cuisine. Our catering branch, Mia's Catering, serves the Italian favorites many of your guests already know and love. From setup to breakdown, we handle everything, allowing you to fully enjoy your event. Don't worry about food preparation or spending time in the kitchen. Cherish the moment with your friends and family while we take care of the details. Book your holiday event for November 15 to January 15 by November 1 and receive 10% off the food portion of your order. Click to contact us and speak to Emilie, our Event Specialist, to begin planning your event. Mention our blog and get 10% off.