How to Host a Small Christmas Dinner
I don’t have large Christmas dinners or parties.
No huge family, no kids, nothing. Just me and my fiancee, sometimes another family member or 2 might stop by but we’re talking at the very most, 4 people.
So at this point, it’s safe to say I’m a professional at hosting small intimate Christmas dinners.
A small gathering allows you to put a personal touch on every detail, from the menu to the decor to the cozy ambiance that makes everyone feel at home.
So here we go, my 6 step guide to a successful small Christmas dinner.
1. Start with a Simple, Festive Menu
When it comes to hosting, a thoughtful menu is key. Since you’re keeping things small, there’s no need to go overboard.
Stick with a few crowd-pleasing dishes that you can prepare ahead, and add a holiday twist to make them feel special. Here’s a simple guide to creating a small but satisfying Christmas dinner menu.
Appetizers
Keep the appetizers light and simple. A charcuterie board with cheeses, crackers, and seasonal fruits is a great way to let guests nibble without filling up too much before dinner.
You can also add a few holiday-themed options like cranberry-glazed meatballs or mini brie and cranberry bites.
I’d recommend checking out these recipes.
Main Course
Choose one main dish that feels festive. For small gatherings, a perfectly roasted chicken or a glazed ham can feel just as special as a turkey.
Other options like beef tenderloin or salmon with herbs are equally elegant and easier to handle than larger holiday dishes.
But the beauty of a small Christmas dinner is you have less people to please, which means you can generally do whaatever you want. Christmas pizza anyone? Why the hell not. It’s a yes from me.
Sides
For sides, go with traditional flavors that are easy to prepare in small batches. Roasted vegetables with a sprinkle of rosemary, garlic mashed potatoes, and honey-glazed carrots will add color and flavor to the table without a ton of effort.
For more sides, check out these recommended recipes.
Dessert
For dessert, opt for something simple but festive. A small batch of Christmas cookies, a gingerbread loaf, or a classic apple pie with whipped cream are perfect for a cozy ending. As are my mulled wine poached pears.
You could even make a holiday trifle in individual servings, which adds a touch of elegance without the fuss.
2. Setting a Cozy and Festive Table
Creating a warm, inviting table setting will set the mood for the entire evening. A few festive touches can transform your dining area into a Christmas wonderland without a lot of effort or expense.
Do not. I repeat, DO NOT, fall into this mindset of ‘Welll, it’s just a few of us so no need to go out of my way decorating a nice table’. It’s a depressing mindset.
Keep the energy high. Put in the same effort you would for a large party. If not for yourself then atleast for the other person eating at the table.
Here are a few of my top tips to crush the table setting coming from someone who has worked in many bars and restaurants over Christmas…
Keep the Decor Simple and Elegant
For a small Christmas dinner, you don’t need an elaborate setup. A simple tablecloth, a few candles, and a small centerpiece can create a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Use colors like deep red, forest green, or gold to evoke holiday warmth. Pine branches, berries, or even a small wreath can work as a centerpiece that feels seasonal and sophisticated.
Personalize Each Place Setting
Adding a little personal touch to each setting makes guests feel extra special. You can place a small name card on each plate, tie the napkin with twine and a sprig of rosemary, or even add a tiny ornament to each setting as a favor for guests to take home.
Add Soft Lighting
Candles or fairy lights create a cozy, intimate glow that’s perfect for a Christmas dinner. Place a few candles in holders around the table and dim the main lights to create that warm, holiday feel. You don’t need to go overboard; just a few well-placed lights will set the perfect mood.
3. Drinks That Feel Festive
A Christmas dinner isn’t complete without a few festive drinks. Since it’s a small gathering, you can prepare a couple of drink options without too much hassle.
A Festive Cocktail or Mocktail
Consider making a signature holiday cocktail, like a cranberry gin fizz, spiced apple cider, or mulled wine. For non-alcoholic options, try a cranberry and orange spritzer or a festive hot chocolate bar with whipped cream and holiday sprinkles.
Here’s all the cocktails I’ve shared this year for your Christmas party;
Wine Pairing
If you’re serving wine, a classic red pairs well with most holiday dishes. You could also serve a sparkling wine or champagne to add a touch of celebration to the evening.
Warm Drinks for After Dinner
To keep the cozy vibe going, serve up some coffee, hot chocolate, or tea after dessert. You can add a small plate of holiday treats, like chocolate truffles or peppermint bark, to enjoy alongside the drinks.
As for Christmas drink resources, I recommend checking out;
4. Prep Ahead to Minimize Stress
One of the best things you can do to make your Christmas dinner smooth and enjoyable is to prepare as much as possible ahead of time. This way, you can actually enjoy the evening without rushing around the kitchen.
Plan the Menu Early
Decide on your menu at least a week in advance. Once you have the menu set, make a shopping list and pick up all non-perishable items a few days before to avoid last-minute store runs.
Do Your Cooking in Stages
Prepare anything that can be made ahead of time. Desserts like cookies or pies can often be made the day before.
You can chop vegetables, prep your meats, and make any dressings or sauces the day before as well. On the day of, you’ll only need to focus on cooking the main dish and warming up the sides.
Keep the Cleanup Light
Use serving platters or dishes that can go from oven to table to make cleanup a breeze. Also, consider disposable baking dishes for any foods that don’t need to be served on the table. And if you have a dishwasher, keep it ready to go so you can load up dishes right after the meal.
5. Create a Warm, Inviting Atmosphere
For a small Christmas dinner, you want your space to feel cozy, warm, and filled with holiday cheer. Simple touches like background music and thoughtful seating can make a big difference.
Play Some Soft Holiday Music
A holiday playlist with soft jazz versions of Christmas songs or classic holiday hits can create a peaceful, festive background. Keep the volume low so everyone can enjoy the music without it overpowering the conversation.
Offer Comfortable Seating
If you’re gathering in a small space, make sure everyone has a comfortable spot at the table. Adding a few throw pillows or even a small blanket to the seating area can make it feel extra cozy.
Encourage Conversation
For small gatherings, you don’t need to worry about formal seating arrangements. Let everyone sit where they feel comfortable, and keep the seating close enough to foster good conversation.
You could even set up a few “conversation starters” by adding little holiday trivia cards or funny Christmas facts at each place setting.
6. Add Thoughtful Holiday Touches
A few thoughtful details can make your Christmas dinner extra special and memorable.
Holiday Favors for Guests
Since it’s a small group, consider giving each guest a small holiday favor. This could be a little bag of cookies, a miniature ornament, or even a tiny jar of homemade hot cocoa mix. It’s a sweet way to send them home with a little holiday cheer.
Take a Group Photo
Gather everyone around the table or the Christmas tree and snap a group photo. It’s a lovely way to remember the evening, and it’s a nice keepsake you can look back on in the years to come.
Enjoy the Holiday Spirit
Hosting a small Christmas dinner is all about creating a space where friends and family feel welcome and relaxed.
By planning a simple menu, adding a few personal touches to the table, and creating a warm, festive atmosphere, you’ll be able to focus on what matters most: spending time with the people you care about.
So light some candles, pour yourself a drink, and enjoy the laughter, warmth, and joy of the season.
Here’s to a holiday gathering filled with love, good food, and plenty of holiday cheer!
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Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more recipes like it. I share only vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and mindful drinking. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
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