I’m having a hard time believing Christmas is exactly two weeks out! Even with an earlier-than-usual Thanksgiving, it still feels as if this magical season is passing by at lightening speed, doesn’t it? Thankfully 14 days is still plenty of time to check all of those holiday bucket list items off the list, including hosting a gathering or two with your nearest and dearest. If you’re feeling like that’s just too much work, I highly encourage you to take a peek at today’s effortlessly cozy entertaining inspiration styled by Abby Capalbo and captured by Erin McGinn, for Nantucket Looms. Abby is sharing her very best tips with us on how to pull off a look that will set the stage for meaningful holiday memories.
From Abby Capalbo… ‘Tis the season for all things entertaining! Although this time of year can be festive and fabulous, it can also be a tad overwhelming if you are at the helm of hosting. Between decorating and gifting and celebrating, there is a lot to cover in such a short amount of time. So I’ve pulled together my go-to strategy for not only entertaining in style this holiday season, but making sure you have time to really embrace the true magic of it all. Because really, that’s when the memories are made.
1. Hone your look.
It’s so easy go to overboard during the holiday season with decor, but like with anything—from your outfit to your living room—I think it’s important to edit down to what really makes you happy. Pieces that make your house still feel like your home. Invest in holiday decor you know you’ll pull out every year from here on out, rather than impulse buying anything with a good red and green tartan (trust me, I know this can be hard).
2. Pick a palette.
Once you’ve edited your decor to pieces you really love, I find it helpful to pick a color scheme – particularly when it comes to setting a table. It takes the guesswork out of pulling pieces together, allowing you to pull together a memorable tablescape without spending loads of time deciding if your charger goes with your centerpiece. It will all just seamlessly blend together when you have a color palette as your guide.
3. Forage for Decor.
To me, a holiday table isn’t complete without some great greenery. But don’t worry, you don’t need to spend your entire holiday fund on garlands that won’t be around forever. Head out into the great outdoors with clippers and go crazy. You’ll be amazed what you can find by just keeping your eyes open. A little sprig of holly from the bush you forgot about in the back at each place setting will make your guests feel extra special when they sit down.
4. Keep it Cozy.
It’s always a huge goal for me when I’m entertaining to make guests feel so cozy they want to linger for longer than they anticipated. Particularly this time of year. A roaring fire, a festive cocktail offered upon arrival or even placing fluffy throw blankets at each seat helps to up the ante on comfy, and make folks really feel they should make themselves at home.
5. Remember the little details.
It’s so easy to go crazy on the decor and menu and every other little thing, but what guests really will remember is if you had toilet paper in the bathroom. Kidding of course, but don’t forgot to cross your t’s and dot your i’s on the smaller things like a great playlist, flattering lighting, a place to hang coats, and making sure your washrooms are well stocked! These are the things people remember!
Styling: Abby Capalbo | Photography: Erin McGinn | Home Decor: Nantucket Looms | Menus: Paper Moss
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