SET THE TABLE, NOT THE BAR (FOR YOURSELF)

Holiday Hosting Tip #2 — Set the Table, Not the Bar. AK Events shares real-life ways to simplify your gathering and actually enjoy the night.

The holidays bring out our inner perfectionist — the one who wants handmade napkin rings, 27 side dishes, and spotless everything.

Here’s your reminder: your guests are coming to see you, not your baseboards.

🧠 Ditch the Pressure to Be Perfect

Pinterest is inspiration, not instruction.

• Choose one element to highlight.

• Keep the rest simple or store-bought.

• Joy > perfection.

🍷 Create a Self-Serve Moment

Guests love helping themselves.

• Set up a drink or appetizer station.

• Offer one cocktail and one mocktail.

• Add a simple sign that says “Help yourself!”

🕯️ Mix and Match for the Win

Perfection is overrated — cohesion is key.

• Mix your everyday dishes with seasonal touches.

• Stick to a color palette.

• Candles fix everything.

🪩 Simplify Your Timeline

Prep early, plan breathing room, and schedule time to get ready yourself.

From the Clipboard of a Chaos Coordinator:

“If you spend all night refilling drinks and checking the oven, you’ll miss the party you worked so hard to host.”

FAQs:

• Can I ask guests to bring a dish? Yes! Assign categories to avoid duplicates.

• How early should I decorate? A week before for big events, two days for small.

• How do I end the night politely? Turn down music and hand out leftovers.