Article By Gwen Payne
Redbook magazine notes that party hosting anxiety is a real thing, and lots of people have it. They worry about the stress it will cause and what people will think if it doesn’t go perfectly. But the fact is that most people only remember the fun they had at a friend’s gathering, not how well the centerpiece matched the table runner. Hosting a holiday get-together is a wonderful way to make memories, and this guide from The Parkey Group offers tips for throwing a low-stress soiree.
Plan well in advance.
If you want to throw a last-minute bash, that’s great. But if you’re trying to host a well-organized party, you’ll need to lay out a solid plan so you can set a timeline of activity.
● How to Throw A Fabulous Holiday Party on a Budget ● Holiday Party-Planning Timeline
Simplify cooking.
If you’re an experienced chef who’s excited to do a lot of cooking, go for it! But if the idea overwhelms you, stick with easy dishes that don’t need a lot of time or attention.
● Use “Mise en Place” to Make Meal Preparation Easier ● Easy Crock-Pot Holiday Dinner Recipes ● 10 Great Make-Ahead Holiday Appetizers
Opt for Easy Decorating.
Again, your home doesn’t have to look like Martha Stewart helped. Small touches and easy decor can go a long way toward creating a great, relaxed atmosphere.
● Awesome DIY Holiday Wreaths ● 10 Easy DIY Holiday Centerpieces to Dress Up Your Table
Relax.
About 30 minutes before the party, take some time to unwind doing something that truly relaxes you. Read a few pages of your favorite book, listen to relaxing music, or gift yourself an early holiday present, such as headphones, so you can listen to your favorite music or a guided meditation. Consider giving one of these other pre-party self-care ideas a try:
● Easy Neck Stretches for Tension Relief ● A Quick and Simple 5-Minute Meditation
Hosting a holiday party doesn’t have to be stressful. Make a plan, ask for help, and keep things simple, and before you know it, you’ll be throwing the best party your guests have ever attended!
Rebecca Parkey of The Parkey Group is a marriage and family therapist who works together with clients to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping them get closer to the life they’ve always wanted. Reach out today! 725-230-8526 or rebecca@theparkeygroup.com
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