Hosting over the festive season but don't have a dining table? Perhaps your home doesn't have the space or a long-awaited delivery hasn't arrived in time. Here are some tips for hosting without the need for a formal dining setup.
1. Take it to the floor for a cosy and relaxed atmosphere:
Create a warm and intimate setting by arranging floor cushions or blankets in a circle. If suitable, you could arrange the cushions around a coffee table. If you are short of cushions, borrow the ones from your sofa, or put a throw over an airbed.
2. Buffet works best:
Opt for a buffet-style arrangement, utilising your kitchen worktops as serving areas. Play around with festive decor at each food station to complement the theme.
3. Repurpose a drinks trolley:
A drinks trolley can be repurposed into a serving station. Showcase appetisers, desserts, and drinks, providing guests with the opportunity to mingle and indulge in festive treats.
4. Spread your centrepieces around:
Use tiered cake stands, decorative trays, and baskets to showcase the main dishes and sides.
5. Help your guests to work the room:
Encourage guests to move freely by serving dishes in manageable portions. This setup fosters conversations and allows everyone to enjoy the festivities from different parts of the room.
6. Themed Food Stations for to get everyone involved:
A hot chocolate station, a make-your-own dessert bar, or a DIY holiday cocktail area can all create a fun and interactive dining experience.
7. Set the Mood with Candlelight:
Enhance the ambiance with soft candlelight. Use a mix of candles, night lights and string lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, adding a touch of magic to your Christmas dinner.
