The Denver Post asked B. Smith, host of the nationally televised weekly lifestyle show, “B. Smith With Style,” to offer suggestions for home entertaining as the holiday season begins. The author responded with ideas that can help everyone prepare for a special holiday gathering.
Q: What makes a great host?
A: A great host or hostess is a prepared host who can entertain at a moment’s notice. He or she should keep a stocked pantry to put together welcoming beverages or snacks that are tasteful and inviting for guests of all ages.
In the dry pantry, keep assorted Carr’s Crackers, cheese twists, gourmet “root” chips, tortilla chips, mixed nuts, raisins, sunflower seeds and soy nuts.
It’s also good to keep fat-free microwave popcorn that can be flavored with spices. While the popcorn is still warm, sprinkle on chili powder, curry or garlic. You might also want to try pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, ginger and sweetener.
In the refrigerator, keep at least three varieties of cheese for a cheese board, and sour cream with fresh herbs.
Q: Please elaborate on your recipe for successful entertaining – style, function and flexibility.
A: My main ingredient for successful entertaining is planning. You should understand how a variety of events in your home or apartment should be executed.
For a cocktail party, decide where to place hors d’oeuvres or whether you want to hire servers. Check with your favorite restaurant to see if servers will be available, or consider hiring high school/college kids.
For a buffet, sit-down or formal dinner, do a run-through with family or women friends to work out the kinks.
Q: What are home entertaining no-no’s?
A: There are no entertaining no-no’s as long as you entertain with style and have plenty of food and beverages. Also, remember to check the bathroom for supplies such as tissue, guest towels and hand soap; designate a place for coats; clear clutter from the entryway; and be prepared for spills.
Music can set the ambiance for any gathering. So, don’t fumble for music after guests arrive; plan the music beforehand. You may even want to surprise guests with a live performance.
Q: What can a host/hostess easily do to update his or her table for home?
A: An easy way to update your home is with new throws or decorative pillows. Also, move items around from room to room for a different look.
Add a swag to coordinate with your current window treatment. Use ribbon, feathers and beads to dress up pillows, table runners, tiebacks etc.
You can also dress up inexpensive glasses by painting them, and use large plates for chargers. Decoupage the plates and give to guests as gift.
Q: What colors are your favorites for home entertaining this holiday season?
A: This season I am going natural by mixing organics with gold. For example, I’m putting out a wood cheese board on the same table with gold serving items I’ve been collecting for years. A few sprigs of cranberries give the table a splash of color.
For flowers, I prefer amaryllis and orchids, which I grow.
Q: How can home entertaining reach that mix of casual and elegant?
A: Begin with the invitation. Let your guests know what to expect. For example, you could write, “Don’t worry about place cards, we’ll be sitting on pillows.” Mingle in nontraditional areas, such as the garage. You can put up some lanterns and create a dance floor. Put food in one room and set up a bar in another room.
Check out B. Smith’s website for more tips on gardening, entertaining, home décor and more at bsmith.com. Her TV program airs on the TVOne network, available to some satellite viewers.
– Denver Post Staff
