The Ultimate Holiday Hosting Checklist

noelle809
4 days ago
3 min read

Hosting during the holidays should feel joyful — not like a sprint to the finish. With so many moving parts, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The secret to stress-free entertaining? A plan you can follow and a list that makes hosting as easy as checking the box.

This Ultimate Holiday Hosting Checklist walks you through each step, from a week out to post-party cleanup, so that you can stay calm, organized, confident, and fully present for your soirée — heels and all.

Grab Your Digital Checlist

One Week Before

Finalize your guest list
Plan your menu (appetizers, main course, desserts, cocktails, mocktails)
Order specialty items (cheese, wine, florals, custom sweets)
Pull out your serving pieces and décor — do a quick “mock set” to make sure it all works

Pro Tip: Snap a photo of your planned tablescape or bar setup. When the day gets busy, it’s the easiest way to recreate your vision confidently. Need inspiration? Check out my Winter Tablescapes at HighHeeledHostess.com.

Three Days Before

Grocery shop for non-perishables and prep-ahead items
Polish the glassware and set aside the serving pieces
Prep freezer-friendly or make-ahead dishes
Confirm rentals, flowers, or catering orders

Pro Tip: Stock up on cocktail napkins, candles, and ice. They help your space feel polished and party-ready but are the first to disappear. Inventory your serveware, glassware, and flatware to avoid last-minute scrambles.

The Day Before

Set the table or bar
Arrange flowers or greenery
Prep garnishes (citrus slices, herbs, sugared cranberries)
Place serving dishes with sticky notes to mark what goes where

Pro Tip: Walking into a beautifully set table the night before instantly puts you in a hosting mindset. Plus, it’s one major task already done.

The Day Of

Chill wine, champagne, and mixers
Set up a drink station or bar cart with glassware, napkins, and a signature cocktail
Warm appetizers and set out nibbles
Light candles and turn on music before guests arrive
Greet guests with a tray of drinks at the door

Pro Tip: Welcoming each guest with a signature cocktail or mocktail makes them feel celebrated from the start and sets the tone for the evening. Try my Cranberry Margarita recipe.

Guest Experience Extras

Set up a coat area with plenty of hangers
Stock the bathroom with fresh towels, candles, and mints
Add a festive touch — personalized place cards, holiday trivia cards, or a photo backdrop
Offer take-home favors like mini ornaments, cookies, or candles

Pro Tip: The details your guests don’t expect — a cozy throw by the fire, a handwritten place card, or a wrapped treat to take home — are what they’ll remember most.

Post-Party Hacks

Run the dishwasher right away
Set out containers for leftovers so guests can take some home
Do a quick reset of your main space before bed (toss trash, gather glassware and plates)

Pro Tip: Light a candle, pour a final glass of bubbly, and take five minutes to soak in the glow of the evening you created. Savor the moment.

Holiday hosting doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear checklist, a few well-placed details, and your signature style, you can create magical gatherings with minimal effort. The real gift? Make your guests feel cared for and give yourself permission to enjoy the party, too.