Holiday Hosting, Deinfluencing Edition

Inspiration for the Coziest Gatherings

Tap the ❤️❤️❤️ if you’re hosting (or trying to get out of hosting) for the holidays!

Confession: I love following a select few influencers and interior designers to get ideas for my 1930s Craftsman home — especially around the holidays. It’s fun to see their creative brains come up with special touches every year. While I’m always excited to decorate, this year I’m feeling more motivated to use what I have than to buy new, save for some flowers here and there.  

When hosting loved ones, I’ve always believed it’s less about perfection and more about making your guests feel seen, appreciated, and comfortable. That said, a little thoughtful planning can elevate a gathering from good to unforgettable. Here are some of my go-to entertaining tips for making your next holiday dinner stress-free and joy-filled.

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My Favorite Flower Shop
I’m not shy about my floral habit. Trader Joe’s, with its gorgeous blooms at wallet-friendly prices, is my usual source. A single type of flower per container — a bunch of white roses or cheerful daisies — keeps things simple yet chic. My vintage silver julep cups usually make an appearance, often paired with fresh white roses. For a splash of color, purple orchids in white antique tins (a thrift find!) have been a hit. The trick is to always be on the lookout for unique containers by popping into thrift stores when you’re out and about during the year; you’ll thank yourself when party season rolls around.

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Pretty Place Cards
Yes, adults love being told where to sit. Thoughtfully curated seating allows for quiet souls to be matched with chatty ones, and, crucially, troublemakers to be strategically separated. I’ve had great luck with butterfly-shaped cards from The Punctilious Mr. P’s and custom designs from @WellFedDoodler on Instagram, although you can certainly DIY your own version.

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The Perfect Playlist
Silence is awkward; music isn’t. From the moment your guests walk in, have something playing — Spotify’s “Autumn Vintage Jazz” is a current favorite. If you want to go all out, consider live music. A saxophonist I discovered at a local restaurant now plays at some of my gatherings. A few bossa nova classics, and suddenly, dinner is an event.

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Indulge Them, Sweetly
I know we talk about sugar and inflammation in perimenopause, but I’m known to make an exception during the holidays with my family. Caroline’s Cakes’ famous seven-layer caramel cake ships beautifully, as do Levain Bakery’s cookies. Warm the cookies in the oven, add a scoop of local caramel ice cream, and voila: a dessert that feels decadent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

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When Space Gets Tight
Creative seating saves the day. For one dinner party, I set up a cozy round table in the entryway, complete with Chivari chairs. It became a sought-after spot, intimate and special. Smaller chairs mean more room around your main table, too — another win for rentals.

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Surprise and Delight
Keep things lively. Whether it’s Santa dropping by during a cookie decorating party or an impromptu game of mahjong on the patio, surprises bring joy. Moving dessert to the living room or patio is another easy way to keep the evening flowing—and your guests guessing.

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Turn Down the Lights
Nothing kills ambiance like overhead lighting. Dim the lights, flip on a few lamps, and scatter votives everywhere. For a creative twist, fill pretty glasses with an inch of ice cream salt and nestle votives inside. The glow from multiple levels of candlelight feels magical and intimate, even if the table conversation gets a little ... spirited.

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Relaxed Hostess, Relaxed Guests
The most important thing? Have fun. If something breaks (even your grandmother’s china), there’s always Replacements LTD, an online warehouse where you’ll likely find a match. If the seating chart goes sideways, laugh about it. A warm fire, a little music, and a genuine smile will smooth over almost anything.

The holidays are meant to be messy, wonderful, and full of love. So gather your people, pour yourself a glass of wine (or make yourself a mocktail), and let the magic happen.

This Week’s Movement Snack

We’ve been working on preventative strength training for osteoporosis and osteopenia for the past couple of weeks — and you absolutely cannot forget your arms. (How else are you going to haul that turkey platter to the table for years to come? Haha.) Take a break and treat yourself to movements you can easily modify to build strength gently and consistently.

Cheers to looking and feeling your best,
Susan

Susan Campbell
Founder & CEO, Phosis