The WORST thing you can be - as a host - is tired, harried or stressed. You won't enjoy the event, and your guests will surely pick up on the tension, and they won't enjoy themselves either. Imagine doing all that cooking and planning (not to mention the expense!) just to have your get-together fizzle because you're frazzled???? To make sure your event goes off without a hitch, PREPARE as much as possible in advance. That, Dear Readers, takes lots of planning and LOTS of organizing. Start with a checklist, and START NOW.
These are the things you'll need to think about: I've separated them into categories, and I urge you to do the same. It'll prevent you from feeling overwhelmed, and you'll be less likely to forget something:
1. Cleaning - Whether you're celebrating Passover or
Easter, getting your home "company-ready" takes
a little extra planning. It's natural to want everything
to look perfect, but remember, your guests are
there to be with you, not judge your home. Make
sure you don't wait until the last second to start
cleaning. If you need to polish silver or have
the windows washed, these are the kind of chores
you can do in advance. Just make sure to resist the
temptation to be perfectionistic, and don't leave
things for the last second, It'll exhaust you
and maybe even make you a tad resentful (i.e. why
do I have to do this every year?). Holidays
are about being together, not having a home that's
so pristine that your guests will be afraid to muss a
sofa cushion. Homes are for living.... so live it up
this holiday!
2.
Shopping Now's the time to plan not only your
grocery list, but to make sure you've placed your
order with the butcher or caterer. Make sure to make
a list. Also note if you'll need to borrow chairs,
serving platters, Hagaddahs or whatever.
3.
Cooking - Make anything you can in advance. Make
a list of dishes you can prepare two days in
advance and those you can prepare one day in
advance. On the day of your gathering, have the
coffee ready to go, food on platters, etc. My rule of
thumb: the less fussing in the kitchen the better.
(Would you believe I've already made the
macaroons? Email me if you'd like this simple
recipe).
4.
Planning: Seder Easter Celebration Preparing the Passover Plate Setting the Seder Table
So this year, Dear Readers, avoid "Hostess Neurosis"
(to quote Gretchen Rubin) by planning early, checking things off your list, avowing to make this the most fun and special holiday ever............and by being thankful and grateful for all your blessings, large and small.
As always, be well. Be safe. Be organized.
xxx's,
Nancy
MY PASSOVER KITCHEN "FAVES"
