Hi there! It’s Kate from DomestiKatedLife here, and I’m back after Thanksgiving to help you tackle entertaining during the rest of the holiday season. In the next few weeks there are office gatherings, cookie swaps, white elephant parties, cocktail hours, and of course the big Christmas eve and Christmas day celebrations.

My very first piece of advice is to pick a color scheme when decorating for the holidays. When you’re using a consistent palette, things will look cohesive and clean. This year I’m all about metallics—silvers and golds are classic tones and the colors will transition perfectly into decorating for New Year’s Eve, and really, nothing says the holidays like a little sparkle! If you’re looking for a more modern color scheme I love the bright candy cane inspired contrast of red and white. There are so many great ways to bring in red and white stripes: try wrapping paper under the tree, bold grosgrain ribbon around the backs of chairs, and of course some fun paper straws!

Photo Credit: Woman’s Day

To cut down on stocking the bar with every type of drink, I always recommend serving a signature cocktail during parties. For something festive for the holiday season, try a drink with frozen cranberries, or make a mulled wine in a crockpot with cinnamon and spices if it’s extra chilly out!  And nothing will add a seasonal touch like some holiday-inspired adornments to your glassware: add some satin ribbons in various reds and greens at the bases of your wine glasses to help guests identify their drink!

Photo Credit: Martha Stewart Living

One more entertaining tip that will be sure to impress your guests? Dress up your leftovers! I know my family cooks for a small army during the holidays and there are usually trays upon trays of leftover pies and cookies and casseroles. Instead of sending family home with your tired, old Tupperware, invest in some festive bakers boxes to make those extra eats a little bit more spirited.

Photo Credit: Kara’s Party Ideas, Shop Sweet Lulu, The Container Store. Image Layout: DomestiKated Life.

What are your tips and tricks for effortless holiday entertaining? I’d love to hear them! Share with us in the comments!

 - Kate

Finder's Keepers

These Parisian Glasses are weighty (and inexpensive) enough that you don't have to treat them like precious crystal—but they look festive and will add some color to your table!

Fill tall hurricane vases with natural items like pinecones, acorns, apples, or cranberries to seasonal centerpieces on your table.

Is there really anyway you could have Thanksgiving without one of these? A stainless steel turkey roaster is an essential!

A gravy boat isn't exactly an everyday item; so I'm OK buying an inexpensive version that has classic but modern lines.

An elegant silver serving tray is a piece you can use for entertaining year round, so this is the type of item I say invest in!