How to Host a Hassle Free Dinner

Hosting a dinner party, especially during the holidays can seem like lots of work and honestly sometimes a hassle. I’m here to share with you my top 5 tips for hosting without the hassle. Hosting is my love language.

This post is sponsored by Cracker Barrel and 100% my very own ideas. This post may contain affiliate links. Read full disclosure policy.

How to Host a Hassle Free Dinner

Keep your home the best place to be year round and hosting will be even easier.

TIP One: Let others help

Trying to do it all is for sure the biggest hassle. Of course, if you are inviting others for a special evening or casual dinner you may want to wait for them to offer to help. Most women I know tend to think they are placing a burden on others when they accept an offer to bring something. It really is a nice gesture to let them help. A dessert, bottle of wine, or appetizer can really help out.

TIP Two: Prepare in advance

Anything that can be done ahead of time, do it. The decorating and table setting especially. You can make decorating simple and beautiful by using items around your home. I love to use gift wrap for table runners or faux greenery that I can move from place to place. Cute little accessories for napkins are always fun. I love to make food table signs as well.

I used twine and cotton stems I already had to tie around my napkins. Always keep white or neutral colored napkins available because they easily match every season.

TIP Three: Music sets the mood

This is true especially during your dinner party but don’t forget to use music to keep your spirits up during the prepping stage. Music just makes everyone feel better. Try it, I promise it helps.

TIP Four: Use multipurpose tableware

Buy items for your table that will work for more than one holiday. These Woodlands dinnerware pieces from Cracker Barrel are going to be useful all winter long. All I will need to do is change out some of the added decorating touches to move easily from Thanksgiving to Christmas and even into January.

Creating a cozy casual table setting can make guests feel at home.

For Thanksgiving I added some greenery and a few pumpkins. Then for Christmas, I will just add my red chargers and instant change! The details on this dinnerware is amazing. Super easy, and hassle free. Ready for my next guest.

TIP Five: Store bought is a great thing

Ready made food will be a life saver for hosting a hassle free dinner. These ready to serve holiday pies from Costco and Cracker Barrel are some of our favorites. You can order online and pick up at your local restaurant.

If you’re asked to bring a dessert to a dinner invite, grab a pie! Just remove it from it’s original container and place on one of your own platters.

Try this easy Caramel Coffee recipe for those cold gatherings.

I hope you found these tips helpful and they inspire you to bring joy to your table. Remember why you’ve invited people over in the first place. To share life together.

Have more tips for hosting a hassle free dinner? I’d love to hear about them.

Sonya