How to Host a Holiday Party with Rachel Karten

[upbeat joyful music]

Hi, I'm Rachel Karten.

I am the associate director of social media

for Bon Appetit magazine and tonight

I'm hosting a holiday party.

There's nothing worse than getting to a holiday party

and having nothing to snack on.

So I'm a big fan of an easy appetizer,

basically just zhuzhing up some store bought ingredients.

Decorations are super important

when it comes to a holiday party.

People don't really think about lighting as decoration

but for me that's the most important aspect.

String lights, candles, these garlands.

Just these little touches around your apartment

can make a huge difference for a holiday party.

For the table scape, I always think it's important

to kind of choose a color scheme.

From the runner to the candles,

it kind of brings everything together.

For the holidays I love gold.

It feels elegant and special

and just perfect for this time of year.

Wow. Hey!

[Rachel And Woman In White Shirt] Hi!

It's really special to see my guests

walk in and see their reactions

when my apartment is all dressed up like this.

It sort of sets the tone

that it's gonna be a special night.

Having a drink station is a great idea.

It gives your guests something to do as soon as they arrive

and that way you can finish

prepping whatever you need to do.

On my drink station I'll typically set up

a DIY champagne cocktail.

Sugar cubes, bitters, lemon peel.

It's a nice way to sort of level up

a typical glass of champagne.

One of my favorite things to add to the table

is a box of Ferrero-Rocher for all my friends

to share and enjoy.

The fine hazelnut chocolates are not only delicious,

but they are also a really elegant addition

to the table setting.

It's a really nice way to celebrate the moment together.

It's the holidays, of course everyone

is going home with gifts.

I like the sneak the Forrero-Rocher five piece

box in everyone's bags.

My guests had a great time and I can't wait to do it again.