Party Planners Reveal Their Favorite Trends For Holiday Hosting

The holiday season is just around the corner—and chances are, your calendar is already filling up. If you’re hosting any get-togethers, your to-do list is probably just as packed.

Fortunately, we connected with some incredible party planners who looped us in on all the top holiday hosting trends for this year. Touching on everything from tablescapes to lighting tips, here’s what they had to say. 

Design: Blythe Interiors / Photo: Natalia Robert

If hosting is causing stress, Beth Sheeler of Broadlawn Farm says it might be time to take a breather and identify your strengths. Then, plan a party in line with what you know and love. 

“If you hate to cook, don't throw a five-course dinner party where you are cooking everything,” she says. “If you don't drink, maybe a cocktail party is not your thing. Think about the gathering that you want to throw.”

Of course, not stressing can sometimes be easier said than done. But, it might help to remember that a stressed host can seriously bring down the mood of the party.

“If you're stressed at your own event, it flows into the guests' experience,” Sheeler says.

Maureen Petrosky

The true goal of entertaining, according to decorator and entertaining pro Nathan Turner, is to bring together the people you love. That’s why hosting should be all about letting your own personality shine.

“Personalize it as much as possible,” he says. One great way to do this is by picking a theme that's reflective of you, and that incorporates items you already have. He suggests using decorative containers as a great way to incorporate themes.

“I love to use unique items like a soup can, a pretty teacup, or a mason jar on the table," he says. «Use what you have, so you don't necessarily have to go