Holiday Gathering Tips

 

Beautiful Winter Ice Wreath

Take a round bundt cake pan, grease the inside of the pan and fill it about 1/2-3/4 full of distilled or purified water. Add frozen cranberries to the water all around and set in your freezer or outside to freeze. Once it is completely frozen turn the pan upside down and allow the frozen wreath to come out. Tie a large red velvet ribbon around the top of the wreath. Allowing for room to hang, the ribbon should be about 24 inches long. Hang outside and enjoy a very festive wreath! Tip submitted by Michelle, Fairfield, Iowa

Centerpiece Glow

If you put any candle arrangement on top of a mirror, it will glow more brightly. Tip submitted by Chloe, Atlanta, Ga.

Christmas/New Year's Bottle Chiller

Chill sparkling wine, sparkling cider or champagne on a bed of frozen cranberries. Star-shaped ice cubes add extra twinkle. This works best when using a bowl that has a perch.

Classic Christmas Videos

Set the mood with videos: In your family room, play Christmas movie favorites like "A Christmas Story," "Miracle on 34th Street" and "A Christmas Carol." If you play "It's a Wonderful Life," have tissues handy. Tip submitted by Sandy, Canton, S.D.

Games and Puzzles

The kids (and adults) will love spending time with each other. If you don't have many to choose from, ask family members to bring their favorite games. They might have a closet full of games they never use!

Glowing Panes

Swaddled in cheesecloth, white indoor lights give off a diffused glow. Place the cloth over a window frame, then fasten the corners with satin ribbons and silver foliage. This really makes your home glow!  Please remember to use only indoor lights and to turn off the lights at bedtime and while you're gone.

Hanukkah Tradition

In our family, we celebrate Hanukkah here at home. We light the Menorah each night, talk about the story and meaning of this festive holiday, give some gifts and spend time with grandparents and cousins. It is important to turn the television off and have some real family time during the holidays. Tip submitted by Rachel, St. Louis, Mo.

Holiday Candles

Drop a tea light candle in a cleaned out glass jar, tie a holiday ribbon around the neck, and you have a beautiful candle with Christmas charm. You could nestle the candle in peppermints, nuts, or even sand if you wish. Try grouping several together for a dramatic evening effect. These also make great luminaries. Tip submitted by Kelly, Davenport, Iowa

Holiday Cheer

If you're hosting during the holidays, make individual goody bags for all your guests - even the adults! Even if you just put in sweets, everyone will feel welcomed to your home with a small goody bag. Make sure you ask all family members for correct name spellings and names of unexpected guests beforehand. Tip submitted by Shelly, Marion, Iowa

Holiday Coffee Bar

A coffee bar is a simple but elegant touch for any holiday party. Along with hot coffee, offer a bowl of whipped cream and an assortment of liqueurs, flavored creamers and toppings so guests can create their own coffee drinks. It's also a nice alternative to egg nog. Tip submitted by Jessica, Marion, Iowa