In a story that originally ran in our 2014 November Insider, JoBeth McElhanon helped set an elegant and unexpected Thanksgiving table. This southern creative also shared additional tips on hosting a grateful gathering while—let’s face it—maintaining a grateful disposition.
So without further ado, here are JoBeth’s sanity-saving tips for hosting a time of togetherness for the holidays or any special occasion.
Invest in a little white table cloth.
Just like a crisp white shirt, you can never go wrong with a white floor length table cloth as your foundation. Renting a tablecloth from a party supply company will save you precious time by leaving the ironing and laundering to the pros. In a real pinch, a clean king size white sheet puddled and tucked can fool your guests. Emphasis on the clean, people!
Mix, don’t match your china.
Your guests are just as frazzled this holiday season. A blend of informal and formal china creates a relaxed and inviting environment. Don’t be afraid to top your grandmother’s traditional Herend china with modern salad plates picked up at Target alongside a menagerie of vintage and new glassware.
Choose unexpected color combinations to bring a sense of excitement.
Consider blue and white transferware china with pops of pumpkin, ivory and grays with natural touches such as tortoise shell and antlers. Our inspiration table this month features purples and gradients of green paired with succulents potted in white pumpkins.
Centerpieces don’t need to be elaborate.
A rustic cutting board covered in grape clusters, artichokes and an array of cheeses provides an artisanal and edible appeal. A large wooden bowl or soup tureen piled with seasonal mini gourds or glittery christmas tree ornaments can be a restrained and refined statement.
Add the Midas touch.
A glimmer of gold in flatware, votive candle holders or glassware gives any meal a festive appeal.
Keep the menu simple.
If pressed on time, consider a hearty soup prepared in a slow cooker while you’re away at the office. Served with a simple salad and crusty bread, soup can be the coziest, most soothing entree for this frantic season.
Don’t try all new recipes for your event.
Stick to tried and true favorites you know how to prepare. Nothing produces holiday anxiety like a flopped recipe at the last minute.
Just like the mix of dishes, serve a blend of homemade and pro-made foods.
Save time by picking up your favorite appetizer, side dishes or dessert from one of Little Rock’s amazing eateries. Who would dare challenge the yumminess of a simple pie from the grocer’s deli topped with Loblolly ice cream?
Lastly and perhaps most importantly, relax.
A relaxed host is the best thing you can offer your guests. Be confident in your choices of table setting and menu. It’s your home, your style. When it’s event time sit back, enjoy the company of your loved ones and be grateful.