I have always loved opening my home for holiday gatherings. When we lived in a 4,700-square-foot house in Portland, we hosted parties for more than 100 people with room to spare — serving tables in multiple rooms and seating scattered throughout. In smaller homes, we simply made do and squeezed in a little closer.
It isn’t the size or layout of your home that makes a gathering memorable; it’s the welcome you offer when you open the door.
Do you ever wish you were the kind of person who felt confident hosting small holiday get-togethers?
I don’t always feel that way, but I push myself to do it anyway. Once I commit, it’s almost always enjoyable.
photo from our Thanksgiving tablescape last year
Do insecurities or the pursuit of perfection stop you from inviting people over?
Sometimes hospitality falls out of my routine. I get busy, tired, or distracted and can come up with a long list of reasons not to host. But when I push past those hesitations and invite people in, I’m always glad I did.
This season, consider letting go of worries about mistakes or imperfection and open your home for a small gathering of friends or neighbors. A simple invitation can lead to meaningful moments.
Practice makes it easier to say yes the next time.
Are you hosting any holiday parties this year?
Tomorrow I’ll share a favorite hosting tip and a few suggestions to help you be better prepared for holiday events at home.
