How To Include Ageing Parents and Grandparents Into Your Family Plans

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Ultimately, as time goes by, your parents are not getting younger, and with that, their health is more at risk. So, they may naturally remove themselves from social activities that have become too demanding or out of fear of being a burden to you. But, the truth is that isolation is never going to help their health and its more important than ever to include ageing parents and grandparents into your family plans.

Checking in on your aging relatives is a meaningful way to ensure they’re doing well, but there’s a big difference between checking in and including them. 

Including your parents in your plans isn’t just about their physical health; it’s about supporting their mental and emotional well-being too. By involving them in your family activities, you create opportunities for connection, joy, and purpose. But how can you make this happen safely and meaningfully, especially if their health isn’t what it used to be? Here are some ideas to get you started.

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Look for Senior-Friendly Activities

Finding activities that everyone can enjoy together is a great way to include your parents. Look for options that cater to their abilities while also engaging your kids, so everyone bonds in the process. Simple ideas like a family picnic at a nearby park can bring smiles all around. You can bring a few outdoor games, like bean bag toss or badminton, and let everyone join in at their own pace.

Another option is planning a visit to a local museum, zoo, or botanical garden. Many of these places offer senior discounts and accessibility features, making them a great fit. Choose locations with plenty of seating and shaded areas so your parents can rest as needed without missing out on the fun.

Consider Accessibility and Mobility

If you’re planning a day out, accessibility and mobility are key factors to consider. Aging parents might find it difficult to navigate certain spaces, especially if they require extra support. Hiring a mobility scooter for the day can be a game changer, giving them the freedom to participate without feeling left behind. For example, if you’re vacationing in Hawaii, companies like Oahu Mobility Scooters provide rentals that make exploring the island much more accessible. Whether you’re strolling through scenic trails or hitting up a local market, mobility scooters ensure everyone can stay together comfortably.

Play Games Together

A family game night isn’t just fun—it’s also a great way to engage your parents’ minds. Board games and card games are excellent for brain health, helping to improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. Games like Scrabble, Rummikub, or even a deck of cards can spark laughter and friendly competition while keeping their minds sharp.

Creating a board game evening at home is simple and inclusive. Set up a cozy space with snacks, turn off distractions like TVs and phones, and let the games begin. This low-pressure setting encourages conversation and connection, allowing your parents to feel like an integral part of your family’s routine.

Including your aging parents doesn’t mean every outing or activity has to go perfectly. Focus on creating moments of connection rather than grand plans. Whether it’s cooking a family meal together, gardening, or simply sitting outside to chat, the little things often matter most. By thoughtfully incorporating your parents into your plans, you’re giving them the gift of belonging and purpose while strengthening your family bonds.

4 Things To Consider Before Setting Up A Farm

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Are you interested in setting up a new business? If so, then you might want to consider creating your own farm. There’s a lot of talk about this in the news lately but the reality is that a farm can be a winning business idea as long as you consider the factors that will almost certainly come into play. 

 

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Location 

First, you should think about the location of your new farm. It’s not just about finding the cheapest piece of land you can get on the market. Instead, it has to be viable, which means that you need to check things like the quality of the soil. You should also think about the transport links and whether or not there are any which you can use to ensure that your farm is both efficient as well as cost effective.

Cost

The next point to keep in mind is the cost of running a farm in the long term as well as the short term cost of setting one up in the first place. It’s fair to say that there are a lot of costs to take into account when you are running a farm. You might even find that with the costs building you struggle to break even. This is another reason why you should consider how to make your farm as efficient as possible. For instance, you should shop around to find the best farm supplies for the right price. It’s a little thing but it will help you keep your costs under the right control. 

Reality 

Next, you should consider the reality of running a farm. We’re not just talking about the cost. The reality goes far beyond this. For instance, you should think about whether or not you can handle the idea of farming livestock. This means that you’ll have to raise animals for slaughter which can take quite a bit of getting used to. The easiest way around this is to only farm crops, but if you do this, then you are limiting your farm’s potential for profit. To hit the right mark, you need to diversify into as many farming areas as you can. 

Time 

Last, but certainly not least, you need to consider the amount of time it will take to run a farm daily. Unlike all other businesses, farming really is a 24/7 job, particularly if you are choosing to farm livestock. It will require some early morning rises and you will lose quite a fair few weekends in the month. Even if you do hire help, it’s still going to eat up a lot of your time. 

We hope this helps you understand some of the key steps that you should consider before you commit to the possibility of setting up a farm. While this can be a worthwhile business venture, you must understand the reality of this possibility. What you get back will depend how much you put in and – in truth – no short amount of luck.

Why More People Are Choosing Not To Have A Traditional Funeral

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When it’s time to say goodbye to a loved one, families often face many decisions such as how to honor their memory. While traditional funerals were once the norm, more people today are choosing simpler and more personal options.

From cost concerns to changing attitudes about rituals, these choices reflect a shift in how people approach saying goodbye.

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Finding simplicity in difficult times

Modern life can be overwhelming, and for some, a traditional funeral feels like an added burden during an already stressful time. Instead of organizing a large service, families may prefer smaller gatherings or private moments to reflect.

Some families also opt for a no funeral cremation, which skips the formal ceremony entirely. This option allows loved ones to focus on creating personal memories instead of following formal customs, offering a sense of peace through simplicity.

Cost is a major consideration

Traditional funerals can be expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. For families who can’t or don’t want to spend so much, alternative options provide a welcome relief. This is especially important for those without funeral insurance or savings set aside for such events.

Choosing a non-traditional route doesn’t mean skipping a meaningful goodbye. Families might still host an informal memorial, like a picnic or home gathering, which costs less and feels more personal.

Flexibility to honor loved ones in unique ways

When a traditional funeral isn’t part of the plan, families have the freedom to celebrate a loved one’s life in creative and personal ways. For instance, some choose to scatter ashes in a place that held special meaning or hold a private ceremony in their backyard.

This approach can also allow families to take their time. Instead of rushing into planning a funeral, they can organize a tribute months later when they’re emotionally ready and everyone is available to gather.

Changing views on traditions

In the past, funerals were often guided by religious or cultural customs. Today, with diverse beliefs and lifestyles, people feel less tied to these practices. Many prefer to honor a loved one in ways that reflect their unique personality rather than following conventional steps.

For example, a family might plant a tree or create a scrapbook to remember someone, focusing on what feels meaningful rather than what’s expected. These choices often feel more personal and sincere.

Privacy and personal grieving

Grief is deeply personal, and some people don’t feel comfortable mourning in a public setting. A large funeral can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions are raw. Choosing a simpler or private option gives families space to process their loss in their own time.

For some, hosting a small memorial later allows for a more intimate and supportive environment, free from the pressures of traditional customs.

The way people honor their loved ones is changing, and for good reason. Whether it’s about cost, flexibility, or personal beliefs, non-traditional choices allow families to focus on what truly matters when a loved one passes away. In the end, what’s important is remembering a loved one in a way that feels right, meaningful, and comforting for those left behind.

How To Be Prepared For Whatever Life Throws At You

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Life can be such a beautiful blessing. But as many of us know, things don’t always go to plan. When that happens, it’s safe to say that we don’t always know how to handle things best or how to get our lives back on track. If you have recently experienced something like this in your life you want to be prepared if it happens, you may find that the below points help you here.

Be Organized

For starters, you’re always going to find that getting yourself organized in life certainly helps. If you know that you like for things to be in order, then having a schedule and routine in place will allow you to feel like you’re on top of everything you have going on in life. Then, should something throw a spanner in the works – at least you’ll feel like you’re already ready for it.

Have a Plan

It also helps if you can have some kind of plan in place. Although we can’t always foresee when things will happen in life, we can prepare ourselves for if and when they do! Having a will in place can be a form of protection – as can life insurance and other insurances to make sure that our families are safe. You may also want to look into key arrangements such as choosing a funeral director or knowing who you’d appoint as power of attorney. Ironing out these key moments can make all the difference.

Be Present

Being in the present moment can solve a lot of problems. If you’re someone who naturally tends to worry or obsess over things, being able to bring yourself into the moment can help you to calm your thoughts and keep your body happy and healthy. It’s a great way to enjoy your life as it is, stay focused, and make sure that you’re in a good place to help yourself and others.

Have Coping Strategies

Another thing that can help you is to make sure that you know how to destress and keep yourself grounded when you need to. Knowing how to manage and reduce stress could really help you to stay calm and focused in moments where you need to. From practicing yoga and mindfulness to going for walks or taking a bath, it helps to have a set plan of how you like to unwind and take care of yourself in the times when you need it the most.

Live Your Life to the Fullest

Finally, one of the things that will be so essential for you here is to make sure that you’re living your life as much as you can. Of course, we can’t always know what is going to happen to us in life – but this is exactly why we need to make sure that we’re truly living our lives. It’s important not to play it too safe or hold back. Instead, we need to make sure that we’re really living our lives, having fun, making memories, and making the most of the moments we have. After all, the present moment is all we can ever really rely on!

How To Prevent Your Car From Bankrupting You

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Everyone knows that cars can be expensive. But what can you do to prevent yours from bankrupting you? 

Fortunately, I have some helpful advice. In this article, I’ll share with you what you can do to lower your transport costs and keep more money in the bank. 

Here’s everything you need to know: 

Lower Your Insurance Costs

The first thing to do is to lower your insurance costs. You want to make sure you’re not spending more than you need. 

I’m always getting into trouble with insurance costs because I’m sticking with the same provider year after year, even as they raise their costs. The trick here, as I’ve learned, is to keep switching carriers to ensure you get the best deal. Unlike health insurance, they won’t provide you with much of a discount. 

Avoid Depreciation

Second, you’ll want to do whatever you can to avoid depreciation on your vehicle. Sometimes, some makes and models of vehicles can lose money fast. 

I like to avoid this by looking at vehicles that retained their value before and then buying something similar today. It’s not a perfect system, but it does reduce the risk of cars losing 40% of their value in the first year, which is a massive hit on your finances and can put you in negative equity on your car loan. 

Go Small

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Another pro tip to prevent your car from bankrupting you is to choose something small. If you can bring down the cost this way, you can often save a lot overall. 

I like Kia small cars because they hardly cost anything to run. Taxes, insurance, and maintenance are all lower on these vehicles. Plus, they’re quite frugal with fuel, so you can often travel a long way on a single tank.

Protect Again Repairs

You also want to do things with your vehicle that protect against major repairs. You don’t want to get into a situation where you’re spending a fortune every year putting things right unnecessarily. 

Here are some of my pro tips for avoiding these big spends: 

 

  1. Inspect your car regularly, looking for signs of wear and tear and damage
  2. Pay attention to dashboard warning lights when they illuminate
  3. Use tire pressure gauges to ensure you’re not driving around under-inflated
  4. Find a mechanic who always offers you the best advice for looking after your vehicle long-term

 

Buy Vehicles That Are Two To Five Years Old

 

Another pro tip is to buy vehicles that are two to five years old. These usually still have plenty of life left in them but also already have most of their depreciation done and dusted. 

 

Cars from the last five years usually have all the modern technology you want. It’s just that you can buy them at a massively discounted price. This way, you’re relying on other people to make the purchases before you and then benefiting from the price they originally paid. 

 

So there you have it: some of the ways I recommend preventing your car from bankrupting you.

Common House Buying Issues And How To Avoid Them

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Buying property is known for being stressful. Many people enter the house buying process feeling enthusiastic about selling their current home and moving on into their perfect property. Unfortunately, the process is rarely this simple and clear-cut. For many people, property buying can not only be stressful but also full of unexpected challenges along the way. Being aware of potential issues is the best way to help prevent them, but knowing how to do this isn’t always easy.

If you’re planning to sell your home and to buy a new one, being aware of the following common homebuying issues should help to make navigating the process a little bit easier:

Getting Stuck in a Chain

One of the most annoying parts of buying a property is being stuck in a chain of other buyers and sellers. If you find yourself in this situation, you will know that a chain can delay the housebuying process by weeks or even months. This is a frustrating scenario to deal with, but unfortunately, it is a common issue.

Being in a chain can be even more infuriating when you’re desperate to move as soon as possible. You may be concerned that all the delays will result in you losing the dream house that you had hoped to buy. This is certainly a stressful situation to be in, but thankfully, there is a possible solution to this issue. 

You may decide to break the chain and to put an end to the long wait for the buyers of your property to reach a stage where they’re ready to proceed. This is something you can achieve with help from fast bridging loans. A bridging loan can help you to cover the short term gap while you wait for your existing property to be sold. This can help you to ensure that you don’t miss out on the property that you’re hoping to buy, and at least relieves some of the pressure while you wait for the sell of your existing home to complete.

Spending Too Much

Everyone wants to get the best house that they can afford. However, it’s essential to exercise some caution when doing this. Working out a sensible budget that you will be able to easily afford is vital when buying a house. No one wants to spend every month worrying about how they will make their next mortgage payment, but this can happen if you stretch your budget too far. 

To avoid money issues once you’ve purchased your house, it’s crucial to consider whether you will still be able to afford the repayments if mortgage rates rise. It’s also important to carefully calculate the bills associated with living in the house and ensure they’re affordable.

Don’t forget to ensure that you also have enough money set aside to cover the cost of the fees and extra expenses that are associated with buying a property. The last thing you want to do is to start life in your new home worrying about money issues. 

Discovering Property Faults

As your home is likely to be the biggest purchase you will ever make, it’s natural to want to ensure that it’s looking its best and is in great condition. So, moving into a property and discovering a whole host of issues can be an incredibly distressing situation to find yourself in.

There are numerous faults that properties can experience. From subsidence to damp and structural cracks to electrical problems. Each of these can be extremely costly to repair and may potentially harm the value of your home. 

While there will always be some risk associated with buying property, you can help to minimise the chances of accidentally purchasing a home with multiple issues. Ensuring that you always view the property at least once before you make an offer is the first step. During your viewing, it’s important to look out for any tell-tale signs of issues such as damp and to keep your eyes peeled for cracks, and other signs of potential structural problems. 

As well as using your own observational skills when looking around the house, instructing a professional surveyor to carry out a property check is also crucial. When purchasing a property, it’s normal to want to keep your costs as low as you can as it is without doubt an expensive process. However, a professional survey may cost you money now, but if it detects extensive faults now, it can save you vast amounts of cash in the longer term.

Ways To Save For Retirement Without Massive Changes

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All of us have plans for our future, and this is especially true when it comes to retirement. We’ll plan on being able to enjoy it, but that means putting some time and effort into it ahead of time. We need to save for retirement so we don’t have to worry too much about the financial side of it.

I know this seems complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s just a matter of knowing what to do now so you don’t have to worry about it later on. Trying a few ways could help all of us and shouldn’t have to take much time or effort.

Save for Retirement: 3 Ways to Try

1. Consider Securities

Securities are always seen as a decent retirement investment, and it’s easy to see why. Mutual funds, stocks, and bonds all fall into this. I know it can sound a little confusing, but it’s often more straightforward than many people think. Putting some money into these can be worth it.

I’ve found the trick to this is to know when to cash them out. That way, you can put some money away and turn it into a profit later on. You’ll end up having some decent savings for your retirement without needing a lot of work on it.

2. Be Smart With New Purchases

There are plenty of times where all of us want or need to buy something. Many of these can end up being quite expensive, which gets in the way of saving for retirement. Thankfully, there are ways to minimize that. You’ll just need to be smart with your purchases.

Going for more affordable options for anything is recommended, especially with some of the more expensive purchases. Refurbished iPhones can be a smarter financial choice than a brand new one, for example. By being smart with purchases, you can put more away for retirement.

3. Try an IRA

There are plenty of ways to put money away to save for retirement. I’ve found that individual retirement arrangements (IRAs) can be a great pick for this. You can deduct contributions to these from your paycheck, so you shouldn’t have a problem putting money into them. It’s just a matter of figuring out what your contribution will be.

I also like this because they don’t have many tax implications, making them stand out from a few alternatives. You’ll only have to pay taxes on them once you retire, so it shouldn’t be too much of a problem. See it as a delayed investment in your retirement.

Wrapping It Up

I know how complicated it can be to save for retirement. You could need to put a lot of money away for it, and this seems impossible. It isn’t. We can all try a few different strategies now, which should help with our retirement later on.

Some of these could help a lot more than others. None of us have a reason not to consider trying them. They’ll pay off more than we’d think.

Reaching Financial Freedom Faster Than You Think

Posted on by rosie

 

Photo by Jakub Zerdzicki: 

There was a time when I used to lie awake at night, feeling completely overwhelmed. Bills were piling up, my savings barely existed, and the idea of taking a vacation felt like a far-off dream. All I wanted was a little more freedom and a chance to enjoy life without that constant, nagging worry about money. I wanted the flexibility to spend time with family, explore new places, or breathe a little easier knowing everything was covered. Sound familiar?

That’s where financial freedom comes in. For me, it means having enough control over my finances to live life on my terms. It’s not necessarily about being wildly rich but about having enough to cover my needs, wants, and a cushion for the future. It’s about being able to focus on what matters without money dictating every decision. And trust me, it’s life-changing.

The best part? Achieving financial freedom doesn’t have to take decades. With the right mindset, a clear plan, and some innovative strategies, you can make tremendous progress faster than you probably think. 

Define Your “Why” for Financial Freedom

Before you start chasing financial freedom, you’ve got to ask yourself one simple question: why? Why do you want it? What’s driving you to put in the effort, cut back on spending, or take those calculated risks? For me, it’s about security and options. I want to know that my family will be okay no matter what happens. I want the freedom to travel, chase my passions, and create the kind of life that brings me joy. And I bet you’ve got some dreams like that, too.

Having a clear “why” is a game changer. It’s what keeps you going when things get tough, and trust me, they will. Cutting expenses, delaying gratification, or staying disciplined with your goals isn’t always easy. But when you have a purpose in mind, it makes pushing through so much more manageable. Your “why” becomes your compass, guiding you through those moments when giving up is tempting.

For example, I often think about how financial freedom could allow me to spend more time with my family without the constant pressure of work. I imagine taking them on big, unforgettable trips or even something as simple as having relaxed weekends at home. That picture is what keeps me on track when I feel like splurging or skipping steps in my plan. When you define your “why,” everything feels more intentional, not like a sacrifice, but a step toward something great.

Get Your Spending Under Control

One of the first significant changes I made on my way toward financial freedom was getting a grip on where my money was going. Honestly, I used to avoid looking at my bank statements because it felt overwhelming, but it turned out to be the best step I could’ve taken. When I started tracking every expense, I quickly realized just how much I was wasting without even realizing it. Little things like unused subscription services or grabbing takeout a few times a week were adding up fast.

The key here isn’t to shame yourself for spending but to get a clear picture of your habits. Once you see where your money’s going, you can start cutting back on things that don’t bring value to your life. For me, that meant cancelling subscriptions I forgot I even had (looking at you, random streaming service) and cutting back on eating out. I still treat myself now and then, but I’ve learned to cook more at home, and it saves me a ton while also being kind of fun.

Another game changer? Creating a budget. Hear me out. It doesn’t have to feel like a financial straitjacket. I made a budget that works for my lifestyle, one that lets me enjoy life while still focusing on my goals. Instead of obsessing over every penny, I set clear categories like saving, investing, bills, and fun. This way, I know my priorities are covered, but I don’t feel guilty about spending a little on things that make me happy.

Start a Business

If there’s one step that can fast-track your way to financial freedom, it’s starting a business. I’ll admit, the idea can feel a little scary at first. The risks and the unknowns are a lot to think about. But here’s the thing about having your own business: it gives you something that most regular jobs don’t control and scalability. Instead of relying on someone else to decide your paycheck, you’re in charge of how much you make and how far you want to take it.

Starting a business doesn’t mean you need to rent office space or throw down tons of money upfront. I’ve been dreaming up ideas for businesses that don’t cost much to start, and there are so many options. If you’ve got skills in a particular area, consulting or freelancing can be a great way to start earning extra income. If you’re creative, selling digital products like e-books, courses, or printables costs next to nothing to create but can generate steady income. You can even turn a hobby like crafting, baking, or designing into something profitable. It’s all about figuring out what you enjoy and who might pay for it.

If you do, however, have an idea for a business that will require some capital investment, there are a lot of ways you could get funding. One way is via secured loans. Secured loans are a type of loan that requires collateral, such as property or assets, to secure the loan. This can help you get lower interest rates and larger loan amounts since there is less risk for the lender. Another option is crowdfunding, where individuals invest in your business idea in exchange for rewards or equity. You can also reach out to angel investors or venture capitalists who may be interested in funding your business.

Financial freedom might seem like a faraway dream, but it’s closer than you think. By taking the time to define your “why,” you’re giving this dream a real purpose that keeps you moving forward, even when things get tough. You’ve learned how getting your spending under control can free up money to focus on your goals and how creating a budget that works for your life can make all the difference. And if you’ve ever thought about starting a business, now’s the time to take that first step. It doesn’t have to be big to make an impact.

Embracing New Hobbies In Your 60’s

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Your 60s might be a rediscovery phase, a time when you can take some time to focus on yourself and celebrate those things that truly make you happy. Now is the time to revisit old hobbies or pick up a new one when there is not so much tugging at your day-to-day life. What is nice about trying something for the first time at this stage in life is the pure pleasure coming out of it- pressure-free.

 

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Why Hobbies Matter at This Age

Hobbies are so much more than a way to pass the time; they’re integral for keeping the body, mind, and emotions healthy. There have been studies to show that enjoying activities can relieve stress, enhance cognitive capability, and increase overall well-being. It could be anything really from gardening, painting, or even playing the violin; hobbies give life meaning and a reason to wake up every morning filled with anticipation and zest for life.

For years, a luxury for many who juggled careers and family, finding time for personal interests is now a necessity.

Ideas to Inspire You

Creative Arts and Crafts

It may be painting, pottery, knitting, or photography—just an introduction to arts that allows one to express feelings while engaging both hands and head. Making something right from scratch can be so exciting. Take an art class through your local recreation department or search on the internet for classes prepared for beginners. It is never too late to unlock your creativity.

Joy of Gardening

Gardening is one of those serene activities that immediately links one to nature. It may range from the design of a flower garden to growing one’s own herbs. The sense of satisfaction derived from tending something beautiful or edible is incomparable. It’s excellent for keeping one active, too, without being overly strenuous.

Music and Dance

Learn to play an instrument or join a choir. Music will stimulate your memory and lift your spirit. Dancing keeps you fit, as well as social. Always wanted to try salsa or ballroom? Now’s the time to give it a go.

Writing and Keeping a Journal

Writing—poetry, memoirs, or day-to-day reflections—may be an outlet for the therapeutic emotions in someone. Quite a number of people have utilized their 60s in setting down in narrative, in words, their life stories and legacies that loved ones could cherish. Who knows? You may even find in you a hidden genius for telling tales.

Overcoming Common Hesitations

It’s very natural to feel a little hesitant in trying new things. Many questions come up, like, “What if I am bad at it?” or “Is this something a person my age should begin?” But here’s the thing: hobbies are not about perfection but enjoyment and staying curious.

Where there are mobility or health challenges, making certain activities quite difficult, there is always an alternative. Most hobbies can be adapted to ensure comfort within the home environment, community groups, and even in care homes, where programs are devised to ensure participation.

The Gift of Time

Your 60s bring one truly priceless thing: time. Time to explore, learn, and play. Because if you think about it, life in your 60s isn’t about slowing down; it is all about finding new things and ways to enjoy life and to live.

What Details Help You Become A Perfect Dinner Party Host

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Hosting a dinner is a vital art. The best part about it is that learning your way around this practice is an enjoyable time for the most part. Sure, hosting a dinner party can be a touch stressful, but you get to control the flow of the evening and present your hospitality to others, which can feel very rewarding, especially with willing guests you enjoy being around.

But as you cultivate your table for potential guests, especially around the festive period, you may wish to brush up on your skills as a dinner host. Maybe you’re expecting family members you haven’t seen for years at your table, or you want to move into this role as you’ve moved to a new location and have become friendly with your neighbors.

No mater your intentions, in this post we hope to offer some advice about the tentpole skills needed for great dinner party hosting:

Reliable, Suitable Furniture & Lighting

Your guests’ comfort is essential for a good dinner and as much as we take it for granted, excellent furniture can be important. Make sure it’s specifically designed to host the numbers you wish for, such as by the dining furniture at Shawcross and their many options. No one wants to feel cramped or worry their chair might give out mid-meal, so having this sorted is essential From there, don’t forget that lighting also plays a role in comfort and ambience. It should be bright enough to see your food, but not so harsh that it feels like a clinic – and you can balance this out with candles to your heart’s content for a little fun.

Rotating Refreshments

It’s always a good idea to keep drinks and snacks flowing throughout the evening, and if you do that, it’s about 90% of how to be a good host sorted. Start with something light, like sparkling water or a simple cocktail, and move to wine or other beverages that pair well with the meal. Make sure you’ve got non-alcoholic options too, so everyone feels included, and vegan options when that might be preferable. For snacks, a small tray of nuts, cheese, or crackers can keep people happy before the main course arrives, even if you have a starter coming.

Accommodations Where Needed

Of course, providing something of a tour as people arrive can be worthwhile. This way they know the house and don’t feel like strangers to it. From there it’s about asking for accommodations, confidentially, ahead of time. If someone has dietary restrictions, it’s worth asking ahead and planning at least one dish they can enjoy. You can then think about seating arrangements, which may be more important than you had assumed, as putting people next to those they’re comfortable with can prevent awkwardness. A small touch, like providing a blanket for someone who might get cold or having the heaters on if you’re eating outside, can also be a nice way to add some comfort and warmth.

With this advice, we hope you can more easily feel like the best dinner host you have the chance of becoming.