The holiday season is one of the most wonderful times of the year, and there's no better way to celebrate than with a beautifully hosted Christmas dinner. Whether you're an experienced entertainer or a first-timer, hosting Christmas dinner doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a little planning, attention to detail, and a festive spirit, you can create a memorable experience for your family and friends to enjoy.
Here are some tips to help you host a stunning and heartwarming Christmas dinner:
Set the Scene with Festive Décor
The atmosphere is key to making your dinner feel special. Start by creating a warm, inviting space with a few key decorations.
Table Setting:
A beautifully set table can set the tone for the entire meal. Use a tablecloth or runner with a festive print or solid color like deep red, green, or gold. Add a few candles for a soft glow—think elegant candlesticks or simple tea lights. For an extra touch, place small pinecones, sprigs of holly, or cranberries in glass jars as centrepieces.
I created a Christmas tree from my napkins and then used our very own Snowflake napkin rings to add the finishing touch (oh and a little chocolate after dinner mint)
Garlands & Wreaths:
Hanging a fresh garland on the mantel or draping it along the dining table will immediately infuse your home with Christmas cheer. Add some fairy lights for an extra twinkle. Just be aware of the spacing as you still need the area to be practical for guests.
Tableware:
Use your best dinnerware, how far you go with this is totally up to you. A classic set of white plates with gold or silver accents can look very chic. If you're serving a large crowd, you could mix and match with some charming seasonal mugs, glasses, or cutlery to add a touch of personality.
I found this stunning set from Villeroy and Boch engraved with different festive designs I couldn't resist.
Personal Touches:
Small place cards at each seat can make guests feel extra special. Personalize them with their names or even a fun holiday quote to set the tone. I also love to place a small chocolate on the plate or napkin as a sweet touch.
Create a Menu That Feels Like Christmas
A well thought out menu is one of the highlights of any Christmas dinner. Try to plan ahead so you don't get overwhelmed. I normally have around 12 guests at Christmas so planning ahead for me personally is key. Ask if there are any dietary requirements in advance too to save yourself from any last minute surprises.
Appetizers:
Start with a selection of simple appetizers that can be enjoyed while guests mingle. Cheese boards, watermelon with feta cheese on sticks, ham, nuts, crisps, and cocktails are always crowd-pleasers. You could, also add mini quiches for a little extra special indulgence.
Main Course:
The Christmas main course usually centers around a showstopper. Roast turkey or ham are traditional favourites. Whatever you choose, be sure to have a few sides to complement the meal, like roast potatoes, vegetables, cranberry sauce, Yorkshire puddings, cauliflower cheese and stuffing are all great additions.
Desserts:
Christmas desserts are where you can really get creative! A classic yule log or gingerbread cookies are timeless, christmas pudding and mince pies are festive favourites with custard or cream but don’t shy away from adding your own touch. A strawberry or raspberry, eton mess is a lighter option after a big dinner and can be a welcoming choice. Try to have a few different options that are easy for you to prepare, you may well be the host but it is also your day too, so don't forget that.
Drinks:
Set up a festive drink station with a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. A spiced mulled wine, cranberry spritzers, and hot chocolate are perfect for the season. Make it clear guests can help themselves so you aren't making drinks all day long, and your guests feel welcomed and relaxed.
Craft a Holiday Playlist
Background music helps set the tone for the day. Create a Christmas playlist that’s festive. You can mix classic carols, like Silent Night and O Holy Night, with jazzy renditions of holiday tunes or more contemporary Christmas songs. Keep the volume at a level that allows for conversation while still maintaining the festive feeling.
Timing is Everything
One of the most stressful aspects of hosting a Christmas dinner is managing the timing of the meal. To avoid chaos in the kitchen, plan your dishes so that they don’t all need to be cooked at the same time.
Prep Ahead: Cook as much as you can the day before. Make the desserts, prep side dishes, set the table and prepare your drinks station all in advance so you can focus on the main course and mingling with your guests when they arrive.
Serve Buffet-Style or Family-Style: If your space is small or you’re hosting a large group, consider serving the meal buffet-style or family-style, where guests can help themselves. This takes some of the pressure off and creates a more relaxed, communal vibe.
Be Mindful of Cooking Times: If you’re roasting a turkey, remember that it needs time to rest before carving. Work backward from the time you want to serve dinner and make sure everything is ready when needed.
Relax and Enjoy the Moment
You’ve planned the perfect setting, prepared a beautiful meal, and created an atmosphere full of love and cheer—now it’s time to enjoy it. Relax, be present with your guests, and savor the magic of Christmas dinner! Cheers to you all!
Merry Christmas!
Sarah xoxo