If you've pulled the short straw to host Christmas this year at your house, you're probably already panicking about how to host Christmas and give your guests a festive week that all the in-laws and cousins will enjoy.
Related: Angel Strawbridge of Escape to the Chateau launches chic debut collection
Luckily, we've enlisted Angel Strawbridge, from Escape to the Chateau, to share her top tips on how to host guests at Christmas time. Even if you love welcoming friends and family in December, her tips and tricks for how to host Christmas are sure to have your guests raving for years to come.
1. First impressions count
'I always have one candle in the entrance hall,' says Angel. 'Walking into any house, be it small or big, you want to see something beautiful, to smell something lovely, exciting all the senses.'
Use diffusers in each of the guest's rooms to scent the space. If you are a serious Escape to the Chateau fan, why not try the stunning new diffusers from the Chateau by Angel Strawbridge fragrance range, available at Sainsbury's?
2. Add a personal touch
In addition to popping shower gel, bubble bath and other everyday amenities in her guest's rooms, Angel Strawbridge always goes the extra mile. She gifts her guests a small box of chocolates and a bottle of their favourite tipple.
'People love the personal touch,' explains Angel. 'Even if it's friends, family or paying guests, I always send an email saying what's your favourite drink and I'll put a little bottle of that in their room.'
'Knowing that sort of thought process always makes people very happy,' she adds.
3. A little decoration goes a long way
You don't need to go crazy with the Christmas decorations to get your guests in the festive spirit.
'It's the little details that you do, over the door handles or mantlepiece. I don't go to town. It's just a nod at Christmas,' explains Angel. 'We've got a big tree and a lot of the decoration go into there, so I will then just sprinkle a little bit around in the other rooms. So it just looks stylish and nice.'
4. Meet your guests with a glass of something
'As a rule, when guests come through the door I will have a glass always ready, alcohol already chilled,' says Angel.
However, the key to a seamless reception for your guests is preparation. 'I do not like it when someone arrives, only for me to have to go off for five minutes,' explains Angel. 'Any event, whether it is just my parents over for a bit of Sunday food or if it's a big wedding, I will start with everything in its place because you want to be out there hosting.'
5. Always serve from the right
A good host will always keep the drinks flowing. 'I'm always topping up people's glasses,' says Angel. 'We get blamed for getting people drunk.'
But, how do you discreetly keep the guests' glasses topped up? 'Always come round from the right,' explains Angel. 'There is something that makes people feel comfortable whatever you serve. Don't ask people. If you have to ask someone 20 to 30 times it becomes boring. I just top people up and then as soon as people say "no more for me", that's fine.'
Related: Bloom & Wild has brought back their magical tiny Christmas trees in three new designs
Now you know how to host Christmas the Angel Strawbridge way, will you be sprinkling a little Chateau magic over your festivities this Christmas?
-
This editor-favourite rug brand is having a rare sitewide sale! These are the ones we already have and loveRuggable offering up to 20% off sitewide and you don't want to miss it
-
How to soundproof a garden - 7 ways to block out the noiseStuck with noisy neighbours? Busy road ruining your garden tranquillity? Here’s some effective ways to shut out the sounds
-
The best kitchen island layout ideas for a sociable and practical cooking spaceKitchen designers reveal the ideal kitchen layout ideas to make the most of every inch of space
-
The everyday household items you can use to store Christmas decorations safely, easily and for freeThese tricks will ensure your decor stays in pristine shape without buying a thing
-
Martin Lewis reveals the cost of running Christmas lights - and it all depends on the type of lights you haveAre our twinkling lights expensive to enjoy over December?
-
The best Christmas tree storage bags and boxes to keep your artificial tree safe until next DecemberThe best Christmas tree storage to keep your artificial tree looking its best for many festive seasons to come
-
Not sure whether you can recycle gift bags or other Christmas gift wrap? Experts share their top tipsCan you recycle gift bags and other Christmas gift wrap? Here’s all you need to know
-
Christmas Eve box ideas to help you make the night before even more magicalThe countdown's on! It's time to start thinking about the goodies to fill these popular gift boxes
-
These are the 5 places to declutter before Christmas for a peaceful festive periodA clean and tidy home is the perfect place for hosting and relaxing over Christmas
-
How to store an artificial Christmas tree - experts all agree you need to invest in this dedicated storage solutionKeep your artificial Christmas tree looking like new for years to come
-
Elf on the Shelf ideas – 15 ways to inspire your mischievous Elf Scout this ChristmasIf you're rapidly running out of Elf on the Shelf ideas, we have plenty of creative ways to keep the kids entertained
