The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends, but hosting can feel overwhelming without the right plan. From setting a festive table to creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere, small details make all the difference. In this edition of Ask Brian, interior designer Brian Gluckstein shares his holiday hosting advice for gatherings that are as effortless as they are memorable.

Holiday Table Settings

What are the essential items for holiday table settings?
I always include a few key elements that instantly elevate a holiday table. Place cards make guests feel more comfortable by removing any uncertainty about seating. Candles bring warmth and ambiance, especially in the evening. Fresh flowers add life and beauty to the setting, but I recommend keeping arrangements low so guests can see each other across the table. Finally, table linens pull everything together, setting the tone and reinforcing your chosen colour palette.

How do I set a festive holiday table?
For a festive look, I like to run garland down the centre of the table and mix in ornaments or berry sprigs for a seasonal touch. I often place an ornament at each setting as a gift for guests to take home. When the ornament is chosen with each guest in mind, it becomes a personal detail that makes everyone feel appreciated.

Holiday Hosting Advice for Small Spaces

What are some hosting tips for small spaces?
A small space can still feel festive and inviting. If a full tree won’t fit, use a tall pencil-style tree or a tabletop version on a console table. A mini bar setup in the living room or dining area creates a fun focal point and frees up space in the kitchen. Seasonal touches like toss pillows, cozy throws, and a few decorative ornaments on the coffee table or mantel will bring holiday spirit without clutter.

How can I create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for guests?
Lighting is one of my favourite tools for setting the mood. I like to dim overhead fixtures and rely on softer, layered lighting with table lamps, candles, and string lights. Add a few throws and textured pillows to the seating areas and play a seasonal playlist softly in the background. These touches encourage guests to settle in and feel at home.

How do I create a festive look without overwhelming my space?
Functional décor is often the best solution. For example, accent pillows in seasonal colours, a faux fur throw, or a wreath placed on the inside of your door can feel festive without overcrowding the room. A few small but intentional details go further than trying to decorate every surface.

Etiquette For a Warm Welcome

How do I make guests feel comfortable and welcome?
It’s the little details that matter most. A personal invitation makes guests feel thought of before they even arrive. Place cards show care in seating arrangements. A welcome drink, ideally with a non-alcoholic option, sets the tone as soon as guests walk in. And a small take-home gift, like a decorative ornament, leaves them with a lasting memory of the evening.

How do I handle dietary restrictions when hosting?
I always ask guests about dietary restrictions ahead of time. It’s a simple step that ensures everyone feels included and allows me to plan accordingly. Even small adjustments show consideration and make guests feel valued.

What are some creative ways to encourage conversation?
Mixing up the seating by separating couples helps encourage new connections. I make a point of introducing guests to one another and checking in with quieter individuals. As the host, it’s your role to guide the social flow and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

Managing the Evening

How can I politely manage the timing of the evening?
Having a clear structure makes the evening feel organized yet relaxed. I like to start with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, then move into dinner. At the end of the night, thanking guests warmly, wishing them a wonderful holiday season, and standing is a subtle signal that the evening is winding down.

How do I handle unexpected guests or last-minute RSVPs?
Flexibility is important during the holidays. I try to welcome last-minute additions with ease whenever possible—the more the merrier. It’s about the spirit of the season, not perfection.

What’s the best way to communicate a dress code?
Simply include the dress code on the invitation. Guests will appreciate knowing what’s expected, and it helps everyone feel comfortable.

What are some thoughtful, last-minute host gifts?
I like gifts that are both practical and personal. A set of wine glasses, a favourite bottle of champagne, or a beautiful coffee table book always work well. If you’re bringing flowers, present them in a vase or pot so the host doesn’t need to scramble for one.

Hosting during the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. With thoughtful planning, a welcoming atmosphere, and a few personal touches, you can create gatherings your guests will remember for years. Brian Gluckstein’s holiday hosting advice shows that style and warmth go hand in hand, helping you enjoy the season as much as your guests do. Have more questions? Follow @glucksteinhome on Instagram to submit your questions for the next Ask Brian feature!

Photography by Hudson’s Bay