Holiday Dinner in your Apartment

It is your turn to host a holiday dinner in your apartment for your friends or family and you are thinking, “How am I going to fit all these people in here?” or “How am I going to afford to feed everyone?” There are many ways to maximize space and fill the bellies of your loved ones when hosting a holiday dinner in your apartment.

• For a formal feel, you may need extra tables and chairs so that everyone can have a seat. Ask friends if they have any you can borrow or rent some from a local event rentals company. With the extra table space, you can utilize table and chair decorations.

• For a less formal seating style, rearrange furniture and toss around big pillows so guests can cozy into conversations while enjoying their delectable treats.  Be sure to use sturdy- but- light plates to avoid spills!

• If the idea of providing a meal for 20 hurts your wallet or leaves you worrying about the quality of your cooking, throw a potluck! People love to show off their best dish, and it will alleviate some of the stress of hosting. Talk to your guests to ensure there is a wide array of food choices, and you can provide all of the drinks and paper goods.

• Setting the ambiance in your apartment can sometimes be tough. Playing holiday music and lighting scented candles are quick and easy ways to up the holiday cheer. You can also string lights around your shelves or make snowflakes to hang on the walls.

• Whether you are hosting a close knit group of friends who will chatter all night or a group of people who do not know each other well, entertainment is important for after dinner fun. You could host a gift exchange, asking each guest to bring a gift (remember to set a price limit) or you could kick off a karaoke night with all your favorite holiday music!

• Keep in mind you have neighbors! Give them heads up if you think your party might get loud, or if want to get to know them better, you could even extend an invitation.

• If you still feel like you do not have enough room in your apartment, see if you can rent out the community center in your complex. These usually have a lot of room and can offer many amenities that could improve your holiday dinner.

Hosting a holiday dinner can be intimidating, but following these quick tips should relieve your fears.
Photo by:  jpellgen