The holidays are a time for warmth, laughing, and spending time with loved ones, but they may also be stressful for people planning a holiday party. Between shopping, decorating, cooking, and cleaning, it’s easy for even the most seasoned host to feel a little overwhelmed. Event planner and entrepreneur Naomi Wipert, co-owner of P.S. You’re Invited – Event Planning & Decorating, knows that holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be daunting. Her calm, practical approach reminds us that joy—not perfection—should take center stage.
“Just create a guest list,” Wipert said. “It helps you know how much food and decorating you need to do. Decorate a little bit at a time.” This simple first step sets the tone for an organized celebration. “Don’t try to do everything on the day of the party,” she added. “Spread things out and take it one step at a time.”
For Naomi, the key to a successful gathering is realistic planning. “I wouldn’t go overboard with creating this huge menu if you’re going to have a party,” she explained. “Stick to appetizers—something that’s easy to do, something you may order and not worry about. Even if you can get somebody else to decorate your home for you, it helps.”
When it comes to decorating, small touches can have the most significant impact. “You don’t have to go all out to make your space inviting,” she said. “A few candles—some scented candles—kind of get things going.”
Style doesn’t have to be expensive when creating a beautiful setting on a budget. “Dollar Tree has so many things there that you can style the entire table for probably six bucks without worrying about it. For table decorations, Pinterest is great too if you need ideas,” shared Naomi.
If you’re not a natural cook or decorator, it’s okay to delegate. “Just hire somebody, or delegate the task to somebody creative,” she suggested. “If you have a sister or cousin that’s going to be there, or a good friend, and they’re really creative.”
Even with the best preparation, things can still go wrong, but staying grounded is essential. “Don’t sweat the small stuff. If something doesn’t go right, so what? They’re not there to see how elaborate you can make something—it’s just to spend time with family and friends,” shared Naomi.
Naomi also recommends simple strategies for keeping calm once guests arrive. “Clean as you go,” she advises. “I have a big tub, and if I don’t have time to clean right away, I throw all those dirty dishes in a tub. I can pull that stuff out and start washing when everybody’s gone and I’m alone.”
Hosts shouldn’t feel guilty about calling it a night when the evening starts winding down. “Don’t feel obligated to keep hosting past the time that you said,” she said. “Blow out that candle. Give them their last cup of coffee, and then say goodnight.”
In the end, it all circles back to perspective. “It’s not about decorations, it’s not about the money,” Naomi said. “It’s about spending time with your friends and family. So if there are hiccups, so what—it happens.”
The best gatherings aren’t defined by flawless menus or picture-perfect décor but by the laughter echoing through the house and the quiet comfort of shared traditions. Long after the music fades and the plates are cleared, guests carry a sense of belonging and togetherness—and that is the essence of the holiday season.