The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us – one minute we’re watching the last leaves fall in the vineyard, and the next our homes are filled with friends, family, and the clink of glasses.  someone who hosts her fair share of gatherings, I’ve learned that great holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best celebrations are often the most relaxed.

Here are a few of my favorite hosting tips – rooted in Napa Valley hospitality – to help you enjoy the season as much as your guests do.

Set the tone before anyone arrives

Long before the first knock at the door, I like to decide how I want the gathering to feel. Cozy and candlelit? Bright and lively? Once you know the mood, the rest falls into place.

Soft lighting, a simple playlist, and a fire (real or imagined) go a long way. You don’t need elaborate décor – greenery clipped from the yard, a bowl of citrus, or a few well-chosen candles create warmth without fuss. You want the room to feel welcoming, not staged.

Start with something sparkling

In Napa, we often say that sparkling wine is the universal welcome. It immediately signals celebration and puts guests at ease. Pour a glass as people arrive – it buys you time in the kitchen and gives everyone something festive to hold.

I like to keep the opening pour uncomplicated. by placing a well-chilled bottle of sparkling wine  in a table at the entry hall. It simply says, I’m glad you’re here better than words ever could.

Plan ahead, then let go

The best advice I can offer is to do your prep early. Set the table the night before. Chop what you can in advance. Open reds ahead of time so they’re ready to shine.

Once guests arrive, give yourself permission to let go of perfection. Something will be forgotten, spilled, or improvised – and that’s often where the best memories are made. A relaxed host sets the tone for a relaxed table.

Create space for connection

Some of my favorite holiday moments happen away from the table – leaning against the kitchen counter, chatting near the fireplace, or stepping outside with a glass of wine to look at the stars.

Arrange your space to encourage lingering. A few stools in the kitchen, an extra chair pulled into the living room, or a cozy corner with a small side table can invite conversation without anyone feeling stuck in one place.

End on a warm note

You don’t need an elaborate dessert spread to close the evening beautifully. A simple tart, a square of dark chocolate, or even just one more thoughtful pour of wine can be enough.

I often bring out a final bottle – something special, maybe a library wine or a late-harvest selection – and invite guests to share one last glass. It’s a gentle way to slow things down and savor the moment before saying goodnight. We call it “Sobremesa”.

Remember why you’re hosting

At the heart of it all, holiday hosting isn’t about the menu or the stemware. It’s about gathering people you care about and making them feel welcome. Wine has a lovely way of bringing us together, but it’s the conversation, laughter, and shared time that truly matter.

From our winery here in St. Helena to your table at home, I hope your holidays are filled with warmth, good food, and wines that invite you to linger just a little longer. 🍷