Getting Merried!

Good Morning Porch Pals,

 I had the privilege of opening our home to a large crowd for a Christmas banquet. I kept it simple, planned activities for the children and let everyone bring part of the meal. Playing a game with the group was fun. I was able to make the room look festive on a budget, and get creative with what I had on hand. Here are a few photos and tips. 

First, create an atmosphere that smells fresh as the outdoors, by using greenery from a greenhouse or leftover branches from a freshly cut tree.

Next, keep the meal simple. The point of hosting a meal is to spend time with the guests and get to know them better. We chose stockpots of chili with three toppings, crusty bread, two salads, and 9x13's of cherry crunch for dessert. Let everyone bring part of the meal.

Invite children! It's hard to find sitters during the holidays. We set up a hot-chocolate station for them to enjoy and purchased small toys from the Dollar Tree that we wrapped and put under the tree. That gave them something to play with.

Play a game. There are so many web-sites that have free ideas. A simple google search can provide plenty of options. We played a game with pennies that we placed on top of the water glasses ahead of time. Each guest had to tell an event from the year the penny was issued.

Use tea-lights, glittering ornaments, fruit, or even candy canes for the centerpieces.

Borrow folding tables and chairs. Don't be afraid to move furniture away from the room for a night. We hosted twenty guests in our front room. Banquet tables topped with colorful draping and coordinating place settings look regal!

Make sure the temperature in the room is comfortable. We kept a warm fire going.

We played instrumental Christmas music from an under-the-cabinet player.

From the minute your guests enter the foyer, they should be your primary concern. It was your invitation that brought them to you. Leave other cares aside.

Welcome them into your home. Look forward to the next time!

Swinging with you,
Alis