Holiday Hosting

Hey Friend,

The holidays are here again, and I know how easy it is to get caught up in the planning. You want the house to smell like cinnamon, the food to come out perfectly, and every detail to feel special. But before you start checking off your list, take a moment to pause and breathe.

The beauty of the holidays is not found in perfection but in presence. It is in the laughter that fills your home, the warmth that lingers after everyone has eaten, and the peace that comes when you realize that love was the goal all along. The most memorable gatherings are not the ones that look perfect. They are the ones that feel like home.

When you open your doors to family and friends, you are offering something sacred. You are saying, “You belong here.” Hospitality is more than food and décor. It is the ministry of making people feel seen, cared for, and welcomed.

Start by setting the tone of your home. Think about how you want people to feel when they walk in. Light candles that smell like vanilla, pine, or warm spice. Play music that soothes the room and makes you smile. Add simple touches like fresh flowers, soft blankets, or handwritten place cards. Little details speak volumes without you saying a word.

When it is time to plan your menu, let love guide you. Choose dishes that remind you of home or honor your family’s traditions. Maybe it is your grandmother’s cornbread, your aunt’s sweet potato pie, or that new mac and cheese recipe that everyone asks for. Food tells a story, and the best ones are filled with heart.

Make sure there is something for everyone. My brother is vegan, my sister is picky, and I am allergic to shellfish, so I always prepare a little variety. A few plant-based sides, a simple salad, and a main dish that can be adjusted for different diets make everyone feel thought of. It is not about making everything from scratch or overloading the menu. It is about love in the details and making sure no one feels left out at the table.

As you prepare, remember to show yourself grace. Hosting should not feel like pressure. Wake up a little early so you can move at a peaceful pace. Do as much as you can in advance. Set the table the night before, prep ingredients, and label your serving dishes so everything has a place. Start the day with an empty dishwasher, and clean as you go to keep your space calm and organized. Put on your favorite music, light a candle, and let yourself enjoy each step.

Before your guests arrive, take a quiet moment for yourself. Sit with your coffee or tea and pray over your home. Ask God to fill every room with peace, laughter, and joy. Ask Him to help you focus on connection instead of perfection. Hosting is a form of love, and love always leaves a lasting impression.

When people begin to arrive, greet them with the same calm you prayed for. Let the small things go. Something might burn. Someone might show up early. A dish might not turn out how you imagined. That is all part of the beauty. Your guests will not remember the imperfections. They will remember how they felt in your home.

Special Tips

• Create a playlist that fits your mood. Soulful R&B and holiday jazz never fail.

• Have a small appetizer ready when guests arrive.

• Use candles or a stovetop simmer pot to create a warm and inviting scent.

• Keep extra to-go containers handy for leftovers.

• Be mindful of food allergies and preferences so everyone feels included.

• Clean as you go, and do not forget to enjoy the moment yourself.

From my kitchen to yours, I hope this season fills your heart with peace and your home with joy. I hope your table feels like love and your laughter carries into the new year. The food will be delicious, the memories will be sweet, and the love will linger long after the last plate is washed.

With love,

Jess 🤎