Simple Tips for Welcoming Your Guests in Style This Holiday Season

Photo by: Kelly Cline/iStock

Offer an Appetizer for Nibbling

Set the lights at a low, inviting level. Open the door with a big smile and a hug. If the weather is bad, line up extra slippers by the door so they can easily slip off wet shoes and get really comfortable. Make sure there's plenty of space to hang up coats, so they can get dry and warm before it's time to leave. Serve at least one hors d'oeuvre fresh from the oven, so they feel the

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Photo by: Kelly Cline/iStock

Offer an Appetizer for Nibbling

Set the lights at a low, inviting level. Open the door with a big smile and a hug. If the weather is bad, line up extra slippers by the door so they can easily slip off wet shoes and get really comfortable. Make sure there's plenty of space to hang up coats, so they can get dry and warm before it's time to leave. Serve at least one hors d'oeuvre fresh from the oven, so they feel the warmth right away. Think about ways to engage all the senses. Aroma is so important, but it should be real smells - a crackling fire, baking bread - not fancy perfumed candles. Everyone loves flickering candles and fireplaces. When it comes to sound, it's not just about music. There's such sensual pleasure in the sound of a crackling fire or something perking on the stove. Everyone will feel the hug of your hospitality." - Lidia Matticchio Bastianich

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