We are hosting for the holidays this year! Are you?
I love hosting family for the holidays. Although I miss having our kids live nearby full time, it warms me to have everyone under our roof for a few days. Preparing ahead helps me enjoy the time together instead of stressing over logistics, so I’m sharing what I’m doing now to get ready.
A reader recently asked where we seat everyone and how we serve meals when our whole family visits. Below are practical, tested ideas for holiday seating, table settings, menu planning, guest sleeping arrangements, and organizing for a smooth holiday weekend.
Embroidered Thankful Garland // Gingham Cafe Curtains // Gold Curtain Rod //Gold rings
1. A New Tradition: The Thanksgiving Banner
Creating small, repeatable traditions gives holidays meaning. At Grammy’s house we like simple keepsakes: a birthday banner, a “You Are Special” plate, Christmas mugs, or a Cookies for Santa plate. These small touches become lasting memories for grandchildren.
With our little ones now two years old (and one more on the way), I’m introducing a Thanksgiving embroidered garland for the kitchen window. I don’t have my daughters’ DIY skills, but a thoughtful store-bought banner is an easy and meaningful tradition that we can hang each year.
What traditions do you use to make holidays special for kids and grandkids? If you’re looking for easy, repeatable ideas, start with a simple banner, a special dish, or a themed mug that becomes part of your family rituals.
2. Thinking through seating and tables
Seating everyone comfortably is one of the biggest hosting challenges. Over the years we’ve used a mix of solutions depending on who can attend: folding tables, benches, extra chairs, counter stools, and a secondary table in the living area.
This year I replaced our lost long folding table with two square folding wood game tables. They’re attractive, sturdy, easy to fold and store, and flexible: seat four at each, spread them around the room, or join them end-to-end for a longer surface. Square tables work well in smaller homes because they’re more adaptable than a single long table.
I also ordered bamboo folding chairs for overflow seating. When storage is limited, choose lightweight, stackable or slim-folding chairs so you can keep extras without cluttering the closet.
Using multiple smaller tables lets you mix up seating so people can chat with different family members at each course. When the season’s over, these tables also serve as game or craft tables—versatile furniture is a smart investment for hosts.
3. Thinking Through Table Setting Ideas
Decide your table layout ahead of time so serving flows smoothly. For small tables, consider placemats or tablecloths that simplify cleanup and make each table feel cohesive. Mix and match chargers, napkins, and centerpieces so the aesthetic feels coordinated across multiple surfaces.
I picked up a charming small salt and pepper set that will be perfect on the smaller tables. Little details like these bring personality and practicality to your table settings.
4. Food and Menu Planning
Food planning matters even if you’re not a devoted cook. Our family includes a variety of diets—vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free—so I plan ahead, assign dishes, and coordinate to reduce last-minute stress. We keep menus simple and focus on favorites that please most guests.
For convenience, I sometimes order a prepared turkey from Whole Foods. Their holiday options are available early; ordering ahead can save you time and kitchen stress. If you prefer homemade, a smaller turkey cooked at home works well, too.
Figure out what needs oven space, slow cookers, or warming in advance. We rely on crockpots and a small extra oven for side dishes. If you’re short on electric cookware, now is a good time to replace or borrow an extra slow cooker to make serving easier.
5. Preparing and Making Room for Overnight Guests
We intentionally downsized years ago and still enjoy the flexibility it gives us. For holiday visits, we get creative with sleeping arrangements: flexible furniture, a snug that doubles as a guest room, a daybed with a trundle, and options for family to stay nearby in a hotel when needed.
The Snug has been rearranged to serve as a family guest room when needed. If space is tight, consider offering nearby hotel stays for larger visiting families. Sometimes a short overnight break with a private bathroom is a welcome perk for guests.
For little ones transitioning to a “big kid” bed, padded bed bumpers are a safer, cozier alternative to rigid bed rails. They helped our toddler feel secure on his first night in a daybed.
6. Preparing and organizing all the things
Ongoing organization makes holiday prep less stressful. I tidy closets, clear surfaces, and set aside fresh pillows, bedding, and towels in advance. Storing bulky winter quilts and extra pillows can be challenging in a smaller home, so I’m adding shelf covers to hold extra bedding neatly in our primary closet.
A little weekly progress goes a long way. Break tasks into manageable chunks: one room per week, launder guest linens, and prepare a checklist for shopping and gift wrapping so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
Keeping a plan for beds, seating, food, and supplies helps the holiday feel relaxed and welcoming for you and your guests.
What are you working on to prepare for the holidays?
5 Home Decorating Ideas to Create Warm, Welcoming Spaces for Gathering
Simple Holiday Hosting and Decorating Tips (+ Pumpkin Spice Irish Coffee Recipe)