Entertaining for the Holidays: Sustainably, Worry-Free and Stylish
When you're a mama, the holiday season is equal parts magical and chaotic. It's a time for joy, family, traditions and celebration. It's also the perfect opportunity to entertain your loved ones. But entertaining during the holidays can be stressful, and often overwhelming, especially when you're already overstimulated. The good news is that you can host a festive gathering that's sustainable, worry-minimal, all while feeling effortlessly stylish and comfortable. I'm sharing my little tips to make entertaining this holiday season a little more sustainable, worry-free (or -less), and comfortably stylish.
1) Decor: In with the Old
One way to incorporate sustainable practices into your holiday entertaining is to shop at your local Goodwill or thrift store for little holiday touches. I look for little touches of whimsy. I like to pull in some almost kitschy cute pieces, mixed with sophisticated nostalgia. The thrift store is a treasure trove of holiday decor, and you can always find something unique and charming. Bring out the family china or some fun thrifted vintage pieces that will give your celebration a cozy, sustainable touch.
2) Blend Fall and Christmas Decor
Are you not ready to say goodbye to the mums and pumpkins, but so ready for holiday cheer? Blend fall and Christmas decor for the Thanksgiving season. Neutral decor with a more whimsical, eclectic color palette. Use florals with some pops of bright colors to create a cohesive look that will last throughout the entire winter season.
3) Create an Incredible Charcuterie or Cheese Board
Hosting a party or holiday dinner can be overwhelming and expensive. One way to ease the stress and expense is to create an incredible charcuterie or cheese board, and a dessert or hot cocoa board for the kids. A thoughtfully curated board provides a variety of food options and allows your guests to nibble at their own pace.
4) Add Natural Elements
Bring some natural elements from the outdoors into your holiday decor to create a sustainable, inviting atmosphere. Pops of greenery and a little bit of the fall will give your home a natural, rustic feel.
5) Balance DIY with Ready-Made
DIY projects are a great way to add a personal touch to your holiday celebration, but they can also be time-consuming and stressful. Strike a balance between DIY and ready-made, so you don't feel overwhelmed or stressed. One great DIY project is making sourdough from your starter. It's a little bit of a labor of love, but totally worth it.
6) Dress for Comfort and Style
I rarely dress up these days, but I've always felt more festive when I take it up a notch for a holiday gathering. When I'm hosting, I'm on my feet all day, and let's be honest, I probably have a baby in my arms half the time! I insist on dressing for both comfort and style. If you're a mom-to-be or nursing mom, you'll also need to consider nursing access or bump-friendliness. I'm living in the Of an Origin Mix & Match Rib Knit collection - the Of an Origin long sleeve rib knit dress capsule is perfect for hosting, whether you're pregnant, nursing, or not. And if standing for a long time and prepping is on your mind, I opt for booties. They're dressy enough for most occasions and oh so comfortable.
It's also fun to get the little girls dressed up, but I always make sure they feel super comfy. We're loving the Organic Cotton Twirl Dresses paired with leggings by Mightly, our new partner brand now available on Of an Origin.
Entertaining for the holidays doesn't have to be stressful or expensive. By incorporating some simple sustainable practices and taking a balanced approach, you can create a festive party that's both comfortable and chic. Cheers to a joyful and worry-free holiday season mama!
xx,
Candice
