Ah, the holidays. That time of year when we light the candles, overcommit to hosting, and pretend we’re totally fine—right up until the oven timer and the group chat go off at the same time.
Hosting sounds dreamy in theory—everyone you adore gathered in your home, basking in your perfectly curated vision. In reality? It’s a sea of details, last-minute scrambles, and one too many to-do lists.
Before we let ourselves drown in overwhelm, we tapped Kourtney’s go-to party planner, Mindy Weiss, for her best advice on how to keep it more sparkle, less stress.
“When I do a party at home for my family and friends, I always start by setting a budget first, before I even create my guest list,” Mindy tells us. “That way, I can thoughtfully design around the budget and the number of guests. It keeps me creative, intentional, and stress-free from the start.”
Budgeting keeps us realistic, so we aren’t frustrated by sky-high expectations or financially strapped during this already-expensive time of year. That’s the basis for what follows—Mindy’s Five VIPPs (Very Important Party Plans). Use these as a roadmap to successfully host your next holiday gathering.
1. Serve with Intent
“Personalize your menu around your guests and the season. A considerate host is always memorable. For cocktail parties, I love a mezze board—cheeses, meats, olives, fig jam, breads, and crackers. It’s a beautiful, affordable crowd-pleaser. Add a signature cocktail and mocktail for a personal touch.”
2. Curate the Vibe
“Music sets the tone. I love building playlists that start mellow and gradually build energy as the night unfolds. Think of it as the heartbeat of your party.”
3. Prioritize Comfort
“Always consider the temperature and atmosphere. If you’re outside, make sure guests are cozy if it’s chilly and cool if it’s warm. Small gestures like blankets, fans, or candles make a big difference.”
4. Engage Your Guest
“Guests remember how they felt. If the budget doesn’t allow for live entertainment—a pianist, mentalist, or magician—games are the most charming, budget-friendly way to help people mingle. Organize teams, and let the fun unfold.”
5. Clean What Matters
“Nothing replaces a well-prepared home. Clean and organize the areas your guests will use, especially the bathroom (the most visited space of any gathering). Fresh towels, candles, and flowers go a long way.”
6. Set the Table
When it comes to tablescapes, Mindy explains that less is more.
“Over-decorating is out. Start by thinking about your setting and color palette. Does it harmonize with your environment?
“At the beach, incorporate natural textures like botanical flowers, candles in shells, or premade picnic baskets on cozy blankets.
“For a seated dinner, always use place cards, and make the names stand out. A slightly oversized name card feels special and intentional.
“Florals should feel effortless, like you just gathered them from your garden. And no table is complete without a small dish of chocolates. It’s the universal sign of hospitality. And everyone loves a piece of chocolate!”
Of course, not everything has to be perfect. You’re not a hotel or event space, after all. Use what you have; that’s what makes it cozy and special.
“Mix and match dishes and glasses from your own cabinets,” Mindy says. “The goal is to make your table feel uniquely you—inviting, personal, and full of character.”
The bottom line is low lift, high vibe. Mindy tells us, “When you open your door, be the energy you want your guests to feel. Look great, stay calm, and exude warmth (even if you’re secretly nervous). Guests take cues from their host. If you’re excited and relaxed, they will be too. Hosting is really about connection. You’re creating a moment that inspires and lingers long after the night ends.”
Because when the table’s full and the laughter’s loud, no one’s thinking about the mismatched napkins. They’re just happy to be there with you.
