TOP TIPS // Surviving Christmas Day!

Hi everyone! 

How are you all? Feeling rather jolly? Well we all know that the stress of it all can get slightly overwhelming at times. I'm all about making and doing things the easiest way possible and so i'm going to let you in on some secrets to making your Christmas run as smooth as bark ;) 

Tips for in the kitchen:

We all know that the heart of Christmas day is done in the kitchen. Massive feasts are prepared and here are some tricks I like to do to make everything taste and look great. 

1) Prepare all your veges the night before. Potatoes, kumara, carrots and peas can all be cut and diced ready to be put in the roast for the next day. If your having a traditional Christmas turkey, you can prepare your stuffing and cover it in bacon the night before too.

2) Parmesan crackers, cream cheese and cucumber are a perfect starter to entertain your family and friends. Everyone will love the taste of them and it leaves you more time to mingle with everyone.

Tips for around the house

These  are some tricks to ensure your house is immaculate and festive for the big day, especially if you have family from out of town staying with you. 

1) Make sure you have the drinks ready! Always have the champagne on ice, beer in the fridge and cocktails made. It takes the edge of social situations and relaxes everyone a little. This would also be an ideal time to take a tour of your place (and especially show your guests where the toilet is!).

2) Decorate your table where you will be eating. In New Zealand if it is a beautiful day, everyone will be outside enjoying the sun. However some families still have the more traditional  meal around the dining table. Play up the Christmas colours! A red table cloth, Christmas Hat's on the place mats, Christmas Crackers near by and a few flowers in the middle of the table would be beautiful! 

3) If you have guests staying at your place go the extra mile. Fluff the pillow when you make the bed (it takes 2 seconds, don't be lazy!) , Have  a spare towel and face cloth on the end of the bed just as you would at a hotel. Its little details such as those that will make them feel really special. 

Remember Christmas only happens once a year, so play it up! Make the most of the cheesy Christmas shirts and carols, spending time with your loved one's and binging on delicious food!! 

What are your little tips to survive this year? Let me know below in the comments!! 

* Sponsored post. Brought to you by Ston Easton. To visit them, Click here.