Finally, we can say with absolute certainty that the temperature has dropped! And if you’ve ever lived in this part of the world, you’ll understand why even the slightest drop in temperature is oh-so exciting! The scorching heat has finally subsided, and we can comfortably enjoy the outdoors – not exactly your typical ‘winter’, but still great!

It’s also a great time to get families and loved ones together, host dinner parties and make use of your favourite warm holiday spices, that have probably been sitting in the cupboards for far too long. If you’re a rookie however when it comes to hosting large groups and are thinking of giving it a go, don’t worry too much; as usual, yufeed is here with a few tips to get you started.

To start, the whole concept of a winter gathering is all about warmth, comfort and togetherness, so bear that in mind and create an experience that makes everyone feel at ease. Wondering how? Keep reading!

5 Tips on How to Host the Perfect Winter Gathering

1. As always, keep it simple, and plan ahead; we’ve said it many times here before and we’ll say it again, gatherings are not just for the guests, but for the host as well. If you’re a ‘goes all out’ type, then by all means, go nuts! If not however, then there’s nothing wrong with reigning things in to your own comfort levels. Just remember, your guests are also there to see you, and believe us when we tell you, everyone appreciates a relaxed host that actually mingles; as opposed to one that’s holed up in the kitchen and running around like a headless chicken. Either way, it definitely helps to plan ahead!
2. Set the tone; one of the most important elements of any home gathering is the ambiance, and if you’re going for ‘cosy’, then make sure you give your guests exactly that. Again, keep it simple, whether you’re having it inside our outdoors, you can easily set the right tone by dimming the lights, lighting a few candles or switching on a lamp or two (if you’re hosting outside, string lights will do wonders!). Make it even more cosy by having a few throws or jumpers available to anyone who may be feeling a little nippy, always have background music, as well as drinks and snacks on hand for when people arrive.
3. Plan a seasonal menu; whether you’re catering or cooking, seasonal menus are always best, and nothing beats a good winter menu. If you’re not sure, just think along the lines of comfort foods, casseroles, cooked salads, a roast etc. In fact, get on yufeed, put in your filters and see what you find. A few winter favourites include our Butternut Squash Soup OR Salad (or both!), Carrots & Lentil Salad, Farro & Sweet Potato Salad, Ann’s Cheese Fondue, Sweet Potato Casserole, 10-Hour Roast Lamb and/or Eleni’s Roast Chicken or our Squash Stew – Again, endless possibilities and lots of options to choose from. Depending on the size of your party, factor in a hearty appetizer or two, one or two salads and a substantial main (or two). If you’re still unsure, use our Gatherings setting on the app and it’ll do the thinking for you!
4. For dessert, stick to the classics; apple crumble, chocolate cake, sticky toffee pudding or your favourite pie and/or cookies. Make your dessert a day ahead, so the only thing you’ll need to worry about on the day is bringing it out!
5. In addition to background music, and depending on the size of your party, it might be fun to have a few games lined up, especially if your guests don’t know each other that well, this would be a good way to break the ice.

There you have it, 5 manageable ways to host your next winter gathering. The holidays may be over, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still have people over! Any tips and tricks you readers would like to share?