Here’s how to host your first Christmas at home

Article by Sinead Clarke Communications Manager 25 November 2024

So, you’ve finally flown the nest! Congrats on this exciting new chapter. With your first Christmas out of home, comes a whole new world of festive possibilities. Whether you’re planning a grand Christmas Day feast or a cosy night with your housemates, we’ve got you covered.

1. Assess your space

Before diving into the festivities, take a moment to assess your rental space. Consider factors like:

• Guest capacity: How many people can you comfortably accommodate? A crowded space can quickly become uncomfortable. Can you hire a table and chairs or make an additional cosy seating option with throw rugs and cushions?
• Kitchen size: Can your kitchen handle the preparation of a large dinner? If not, consider simpler menu options like a pizza theme or a potluck-style meal. Otherwise host something easier for your kitchen to manage, like a morning tea, light lunch or charcuterie board option.
• Living space: Is your living room big enough for everyone to gather? If not, you might need to get creative with seating arrangements like considering outdoor space (weather permitting). 

2. Budget wisely

A realistic budget is key to stress-free holiday planning. Factor in the cost of food, drinks, decorations and gifts. To save money, consider these tips:

• Potluck style: Share the load and ask guests to bring a dish. This not only saves you money but also adds variety to the menu.
• Coordinate the menu: Either assign specific dishes (like an entree, main or dessert) or let guests choose what they’re comfortable bringing. Just make sure there’s a good balance of options.
• Dessert extravaganza: If everyone’s up for it, a dessert-only potluck can be a fun and delicious way to celebrate!
• DIY decorations: Get creative and make your own ornaments and centrepieces using materials like paper, felt or natural elements.
• Community effort: Ask your guests to bring their favourite Christmas decorations to decorate the space together. This can be a fun and collaborative way to personalise your holiday decor.
• Second-hand shopping: Check thrift stores and online marketplaces for affordable and unique decorations and gifts.
• Bulk buying: Purchase non-perishable items like sauces and pantry staples in bulk to save money.

3. Plan ahead

A well-planned Christmas is a stress-free Christmas. Start by creating a detailed menu, including appetisers, main course, side dishes and desserts. Consider your guests’ dietary restrictions and preferences when planning the menu. Next, make a comprehensive shopping list to avoid last-minute trips. Finally, create a timeline for cooking, baking and cleaning. If you can, premake some items in the lead-up to your event. Premaking things like dough, cake bases and cake icings can easily be stored and won’t go bad quickly.

4. Clean your space

A clean space sets the stage for a festive atmosphere. Give your rental a deep clean, paying extra attention to high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Don’t forget to declutter and organise your space to create a more inviting environment. Make sure to care for the finer details like yard maintenance, oven cleaning or furniture dusting. And if you have any pets, clean their spaces. Here’s our rulebook for renting with pets.

5. Notify your neighbours

Be a considerate neighbour. If you’re planning on having music or a larger gathering, inform your neighbours in advance, especially if it’s late at night. A friendly heads-up can prevent any misunderstandings. You might even consider extending a casual invitation to join the festivities!

6. Delegate tasks

Involve your housemates or guests in the festivities. Assign tasks like setting the table, helping with the dishes or mixing drinks. This not only lightens your load but also makes your guests feel more involved.

7. Stock up on essentials

Don’t forget the basics. Ensure you have enough glassware, plates and cutlery for all guests. Also, stock up on toiletries like toilet paper, soap, tissue paper and hand sanitiser.

8. Set a festive theme

A theme can add a touch of magic to your Christmas. Consider these ideas:

• Classic red and green: A timeless choice that evokes traditional Christmas imagery.
• Winter wonderland: A snowy and magical theme perfect for a cosy Christmas.
• Rustic Christmas: A relaxed and natural look that incorporates elements like wood, oak and pine cones.

9. Prep in advance

Save time on Christmas Day by preparing dishes like casseroles, soups and desserts in advance. You can freeze these items and reheat them later. If you have overnight guests, create a cosy sleeping space using a mattress, blankets and pillows. Discover more tips for creating a warm and inviting space in our article: 4 ways to make your rental property feel like home.

10. Create a festive playlist

Set the mood with some Christmas tunes. Curate a playlist of your favourite Christmas songs to create a festive atmosphere. You can also use streaming services to find premade Christmas playlists. Or again, encourage collaboration and create a collaborative playlist with your guests.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the spirit of giving

Don’t forget the true meaning of Christmas: giving. Consider organising a Secret Santa gift exchange, donating to a local charity or volunteering your time to help those in need.

And there you have it, a comprehensive guide to hosting your first Christmas out of home. Remember, the most important ingredient to a successful holiday is a warm heart and a festive spirit. So, don’t stress too much about the perfect table setting or the most elaborate menu. Instead, focus on creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

Whether you’re hosting a grand Christmas feast or a cosy night in, the key is to embrace the season’s magic. Deck the halls with twinkling lights, fill your home with the aroma of delicious food and surround yourself with the people you love. And don’t forget to indulge in a little holiday cheer – a glass of eggnog or a hot chocolate never hurt anyone!

So, go forth and conquer your first Christmas out of home. May it be filled with joy, laughter and plenty of festive cheer. Happy Holidays!