The Master Holiday Entertaining Playbook

Tis the season for entertaining and making long-lasting memories. Our friends at Bungalow 56 have created a great DIY cork garland and delicious four-course menu to help you prepare for the holidays. If you’re looking for holiday entertaining ideas, this guide has everything you need to make your celebrations special.

Being in the event planning and design industry we take great pride in creating beautiful spaces and parties for our clients. Christmas is our favorite time of year and even though we are busy, we always take time to relish in our own traditions.

I am particularly OCD when it comes to decorating and entertaining for the holidays (even the wrapping on the presents must be color coordinated) and Jessica is amazing at all the little details. So this year, when La Crema asked us to submit something for Holidays we thought we would invite you to join us for Christmas, Bungalow 56 style.

Holiday Entertaining Timeline 

A holiday entertaining timeline is incredibly helpful to ensure that everything gets done on time and without stress, especially when you’re hosting a large gathering or special event. With so many tasks to juggle—cooking, decorating, setting the table—it can be easy to feel overwhelmed.  

Creating Your Holiday Entertaining Timeline 

Here’s a sample timeline that can help you prepare for a holiday dinner party or celebration. Adjust it according to your event and timeline, and use it as a guide to streamline the process:  

5 Days Before the Event: 

• Finalize the Menu: Review your recipes, confirm guest dietary restrictions, and make any necessary ingredient swaps. 
• Create a Shopping List: Based on your finalized menu, write down all the ingredients and supplies you’ll need for the big day. 
• Order Any Special Items: If you’re planning to serve wine or special cocktails, be sure to order them in advance. 

3 Days Before the Event: 

• Grocery Shopping: Head to the store to purchase the bulk of your ingredients. Be sure to pick up any non-perishable items. 
• Start Preparing Decorations: Set aside time to create DIY elements like the cork garland, wreaths, or centerpieces for the table. 
• Start Cooking: For any dishes that can be made ahead (like desserts, or sauces), start preparing them now. For example, potato pancakes can be made the day before and reheated. 

2 Days Before the Event: 

• Prepare the Table Setting: Lay out your dinnerware, glassware, and linens. This ensures you’re not scrambling last-minute to set the table. 
• Make the Final Wine Selection: If you haven’t already, finalize your wine pairings based on the menu. Let them breathe and chill as needed. 
• Start Cooking Ahead: Prepare any slow-cook dishes or sides that can be reheated, like green beans, or casseroles.

1 Day Before the Event: 

• Prep the Kitchen: Clean out the fridge and clear counter space for the big day. Chop veggies, prep garnishes, and have everything ready for the final cooking steps. 
• Assemble Décor: Arrange your floral arrangements, set up the holiday garland, and any other finishing touches around the space. 
• Test Your Lighting: Make sure all candles, string lights, and any other lighting elements are working, and set them up in the areas where guests will gather. 

Day of the Event: 

• Final Cooking: Start cooking any dishes that need to be made on the day of the event. Keep things organized by working through your recipes in order of timing (appetizers, then main course). 
• Set Up the Bar Area: Set out glasses, ice, and drinks. Have your signature cocktails prepped and ready to serve. 
• Get Dressed and Ready: As guests will be arriving soon, make sure you have time to change and freshen up before greeting them at the door. 
• Welcome Your Guests: Pour the wine, serve the cocktails, and let the party begin! 

Holiday Table Setting & Décor Tips 

When it comes to holiday décor, we love mixing rustic charm with festive elegance. This year, we focused on creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere with timeless elements like vintage sleds and ice skates. Paired with a driftwood wreath and DIY cork garland, these touches bring warmth and nostalgia to your space. 

Table Setting Tips for a Holiday Feast 

Create a welcoming table with a few simple tips: 

1. Layer Your Table Linens: Use a classic white tablecloth, then layer with a burlap runner for texture. 
2. Mix and Match: Combine elegant glassware with rustic plates or vintage chargers for a relaxed yet refined look. 
3. Candles for Ambiance: Add candles to create a soft, inviting glow around the table. 
4. Natural Centerpieces: Incorporate pine boughs, pinecones, or small branches with fairy lights for a festive touch. 

DIY Cork Garland for Extra Flair 

Add a personal touch with a DIY cork garland. It’s an easy way to incorporate rustic elements into your décor. Whether you hang it on your mantel, staircase, or across your dining table, it’s sure to bring seasonal charm to your home. Get the step-by-step guide to making your own wine cork garland here. 

DIY cork garlands

Season’s Eating

One of the challenges during the holidays is balancing making a show-stopper meal with spending time with friends and family. This holiday menu addresses both needs: An epic, elegant Christmas supper that doesn’t take all afternoon to create.

Four-course holiday menu

The Menu

• Roasted Rack of Lamb with Cranberry Jalapeno Mint Relish
• Potato Pancakes with Herbed Sour Cream
• French Green Beans with Caramelized Leeks
• Butter Lettuce Salad with Crème Fraiche Lemon Dressing

Wine Pairing Guide for Holiday Meals: Celebrate with La Crema 

When hosting holiday meals, choosing the right wine can elevate the experience, complement the flavors of your dishes, and set the tone for a festive evening. With La Crema wines, you have a range of options to suit every taste and dish on your holiday table, from appetizers to dessert. Here’s a quick guide to help you select the perfect bottle for any holiday occasion. 

Sparkling Wines for Toasts and Appetizers 

Start your holiday meal with a celebratory note by serving La Crema Blanc De Blancs Sparkling Wine. This crisp, refreshing bubbly has delicate notes of apple and pear, with a slight hint of brioche, making it the perfect wine to toast with and pair with light appetizers like shrimp cocktail, cheeses, or bruschetta. 

White Wines for Seafood and Poultry 

For lighter mains like seafood, turkey, or chicken, La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is an excellent choice. Its balanced acidity and subtle oak influence enhance the flavors of roasted turkey, white fish, or creamy dishes like potato gratin. If you’re serving a seafood appetizer or light salad, this Chardonnay’s bright citrus and apple notes will complement without overwhelming. 

For a slightly more refreshing and versatile option, La Crema Monterey Pinot Gris offers crisp acidity and hints of green apple, pear, and citrus, making it ideal for roasted or grilled seafood, salad, or vegetable dishes. 

Red Wines for Rich Meats and Hearty Dishes 

When serving rich meats like roast beef, lamb, or dishes with deep flavors, a medium-bodied red like La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is the perfect pairing. With its bright red fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and soft tannins, this wine complements everything from roasted meats to mushroom-based dishes, while enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. 

For heavier, more savory dishes, such as braised short ribs or grilled steaks, La Crema Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is a fantastic choice. Its rich fruit flavors of cherry and cranberry, along with subtle earthy undertones, provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of the meat. 

Credits:

Photography: Kristin Vincent Photography