Ep. 444: Holiday Throwback Special, Pt. 2 - Taryn’s Hosting Tips & Tricks

We are back for part two of our special three-part holiday series! This week, Taryn takes over the host chair to introduce her favorite holiday episode from the archives.

Taryn chose Episode 388: The 2024 Holiday Hosting Special, a sentimental favorite because it was recorded right at her own dining room table in her new home. In this cozy and practical conversation, the ladies discuss navigating family food traditions (like Taryn’s pierogies vs. her husband's healthy salads), Liz’s secret "Winter Berry Pie" recipe, and the ultimate timeline for stress-free hosting.

Quick Decorating & Hosting Takeaways:

• The "Martha" Method: Caroline shares her system for stress-free hosting: create a master list 1-2 weeks in advance and assign every single task (even "fill ice trays") to a specific day so you never have to do everything at once.

• Focus on the Big Two: If you are low on energy for decorating, Taryn and the team suggest focusing only on a pre-lit Christmas tree and a great wreath for the front door. If you nail those two spots, you can let the rest of the house go.

• Shop Estate Sales: For unique, sustainable gifts, skip the mall and check out local estate sales (using apps like EstateSales.net) to find special items like silver trays, crystal, or vintage books.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• 00:00 Taryn introduces Part 2 of the Holiday Throwback series

  02:00 Hosting Thanksgiving: From potlucks to seating 7 at a round table

  04:00 Menu mashups: Combining family traditions (Pierogies vs. Salads)

  08:00 Caroline’s "Master List" hosting strategy

  13:00 Liz’s Winter Berry Pie & Caroline’s "Salty Pumpkin Pie" disaster

  23:00 Christmas Decorating: The December 8th rule vs. decorating early

  26:00 The debate: Real trees vs. Fake trees (and using both!)

  28:00 DIY Flocking Tips: Mist, sprinkle, mist again

  30:00 Ornaments: Tying glass icicles with satin ribbon

  42:00 Stocking Holders: Why the ladies love the "Essential" holder

  59:00 Gift Giving: Why estate sales are the best secret source

Also Mentioned:

• Ina Garten’s Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• EstateSales.net (App for finding sales)

• Ballard Designs Essential Stocking Holder 

• Shop Ballard Designs

Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone.

Happy Decorating!

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