Healthy Tips for Hosting During the Holidays
My friends know when it comes to parties, I am the host!
Everyone comes to our house, my husband leads the cocktail creations, and I make more food than we could ever eat. I love hosting all year round; bringing our friends together to make lasting memories. When we built our home in Costa Mesa last year, we designed the perfect space to host any event. We celebrate everything from “Hurray it’s Friday!” to the traditional Friendsgiving feast. I’m so blessed to have such an amazing group of friends who bring goodies, gifts, and are always willing to help out, something that I so appreciate if my kiddos are overwhelmed or I’m not feeling my best. Mostly the boys are behind the bar and the girls are in the kitchen, but hey, if they keep the drinks coming, I am more than happy to clean dishes.
You might be thinking, “Kenzie, hosting is so much work, how do you have the energy?” and to that, I say: one of the main reasons I love hosting is because I can control the environment. I can curate the menu to include food and drinks that won’t make me feel sick, I can literally adjust the temperature to regulate myself, and I can sneak away to my room if I need a minute to collect my thoughts. To me, that’s worth the extra effort. Still, I like to make sure I’ve got our gatherings set up not only for the enjoyment of our guests but for my success as a host, by doing the following:
Create a themed menu: not only is this fun, but it’s also a super easy and sneaky way to not need so many different ingredients per dish or drink, thus limiting the chances that you’d forget something at the store and start stressing.
Notice your surroundings: what’s overwhelming you? If it’s too loud, lower the music; if you’re overheating, open a window; if you're in pain, take a seat. Remember, you’re the host and need to do what you need to feel comfortable and enjoy your party.
Have a sacred space: like I said, having a spot to go and catch your breath and sit in silence for a second is priceless. Bonus points if your partner knows not to bother you and to take the reins while you’re hiding in there.
If you’re looking to host a healthy holiday this season, here are two of my favorite simple recipes that will add cheer to any celebration.
Cranberry Moscow Mule – simply skip the vodka to make a festive mocktail perfect for kiddos and sober friends!
Mix in a shaker with ice:
2 oz vodka of choice (I personally like Grey Goose or Pau Maui)
1 oz organic concentrated cranberry juice (I use Lakewood Organic)
1 oz lime juice
Pour over ice
Fill remainder with diet ginger beer (Bundaberg is my favorite)
Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and cheers!
Sweet and Savory Sweet Potato Rounds
Cut 1-2 sweet potatoes into round disks
Place on a cookie sheet lying flat
Brush or spray avocado oil over the potatoes
Sprinkle cinnamon on top
Broil in a toaster oven or in a regular oven for 12-15 minutes
Sprinkle goat cheese crumbles on top
Drizzle with organic honey and serve!
What are your tools for hosting a healthy holiday? I’d love to swap tips and recipes. Let’s connect on Instagram and Facebook @HolisticUmbrella, or email me at Kenzie@HolisticUmbrella.com to chat.
Happy hosting! xx