Thank you Walmart for partnering with me to bring you this post!
I can’t believe Thanksgiving is just a few days away. Are you hosting any holiday gatherings this season? The pressure to create picture-perfect events can feel overwhelming, especially when social media raises expectations with elaborate décor and complex menus. That can make hosting feel intimidating before you even send the first invitation.
I want to encourage you to keep things simple. Informal, impromptu gatherings can be just as enjoyable and memorable as carefully planned formal events. When you let go of perfection, hosting becomes easier and more fun for everyone—including you.
Below are my practical tips for hosting gatherings that put guests and hosts at ease.
I wrote Simple Gatherings to help hostesses simplify opening their homes. Simplicity is kinder to the host and often more enjoyable for guests. That’s one reason I shop at Walmart—it’s convenient, affordable, and stocked with everything you need for relaxed hospitality. A quick stop there can leave you ready to host without stress or overspending.
Worried about the size or condition of your home? Intimidated by food preparation or decorating? Remember: not every gathering needs elaborate styling or a perfectly curated room. Invite friends for simple things—donuts and cider in the backyard, a cozy chat around a fire pit, or an easy meal at the kitchen table. Informal moments often leave stronger, warmer impressions than events that required hours of preparation.
In Simple Gatherings I highlight four things guests will remember: the atmosphere, the food, and the thoughtful touches. None of these elements require fancy techniques to be memorable.
People are busy during the holidays. Impromptu invitations can relieve pressure for everyone. One reliable trick: offer food. An invitation that mentions snacks or a warm drink is hard to resist.
If food prep or table styling feels intimidating, keep it light and playful. For example, use small footed stands to create a leaning tower of donuts—an unexpected presentation that brings a smile without strain.
We found charming wood footed stands to elevate simple treats. Pieces like these add height and visual interest, giving ordinary items a little extra presence. A playful display doesn’t need to be perfect to feel special.
Placing a box of donuts on the table is fine, but a quirky presentation is what people remember. It’s the unexpected details that make a gathering feel thoughtful and fun.
For our cider-and-donuts gathering we used items from Walmart along with a few pieces we already owned. It took just minutes to arrange and felt effortless and welcoming.
Here are the pieces we used:
We used aqua dishes we purchased previously. A favorite plaid tablecloth and a white oval Dutch oven warmed cider on the table. A braided charger added texture under the Dutch oven, and winter floral napkins made the scene feel festive. Simple choices like these come together quickly and keep the focus on connection.
We often overcomplicate hosting or avoid it entirely because we think everything must be perfect. But genuine hospitality is about bringing people together, not staging a flawless event. A warm invitation, comforting food—store-bought or homemade—and a few thoughtful touches are all you need.
If convenience helps, use prepared items. Placing food in your own dish can give a cozy, homemade feel without the work. Add small details like music or a simple centerpiece to enhance the mood. Being intentional about gathering is always worth the effort.
Our backyard firepit reminded me that holiday gatherings don’t need to be fancy to feel festive. A stack of donuts, mugs of steaming cider, and good conversation are enough to create warmth and joy.
Sources (click photos and links below for details:)
Gluten-Free Apple Cider
Glazed Donuts
White Adirondack Chair (similar)
Winter Floral Cheers Napkins
Plaid Tablecloth
Braided Round Placemat / Charger
White Oval Dutch Oven
Aqua Dishes
Wood Footed Stands – set of 2