2025 Holiday Shopping Guide: Gifts For New Homeowners
To help ease the mind of the new homeowners in your life, we’ve compiled a holiday shopping guide for the…
Read More
December 8, 2025
Building Holiday Memories: 8 Stress-Free Hosting Tips from Maronda Homes
Hosting friends and family should feel joyful, not overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a full holiday celebration, the right preparation (and the right home layout!) can make all the difference.
At Maronda Homes, we design spaces that make entertaining easy, comfortable, and stylish. To help you enjoy your next gathering, here are eight stress-free hosting tips inspired by the way our homes are built to bring people together.
1. Start with a Clean, Welcoming Entryway
First impressions matter. A tidy foyer sets the tone the moment guests walk through your door. Add a console table, warm lighting, a small seasonal décor piece, and a designated spot for shoes or coats. Many Maronda Homes feature spacious entryways that make greeting guests comfortable—not cramped.
2. Prep Your Kitchen Ahead of Time
Your kitchen is the heart of the home—and often the hub during gatherings. Take advantage of open-concept layouts by prepping food in advance, clearing counters, and setting up a drink station. This keeps traffic flowing and lets guests serve themselves without interrupting the cook.
3. Create Cozy, Flexible Seating
Whether it’s your living room, dining area, or outdoor patio, seating should feel natural and comfortable. Rearrange furniture to create conversation zones, and consider adding a few extra seating options like ottomans or benches. Many Maronda floor plans offer spacious great rooms perfect for mixing and mingling.
4. Use Lighting to Set the Mood
Bright lights are great for food prep—but not for relaxed conversation. Use dimmers, lamps, or string lights to create warmth and ambiance. The right lighting helps your home feel inviting without any extra effort.
5. Keep Your Menu Simple and Crowd-Friendly
You don’t need a chef’s tasting menu to impress your guests. A few flavorful, easy dishes (plus a reliable slow-cooker recipe!) can go a long way. The goal is to spend more time with your guests and less time checking timers.
6. Take Advantage of Outdoor Spaces
If you have a patio, deck, or backyard, open it up! Outdoor areas extend your entertaining space and give guests more room to relax. Many Maronda Homes include covered patios perfect for grilling, chatting, or enjoying a sunset.
7. Set Up a Kid-Friendly Zone
If you’re hosting families, designate a space for kids to play—this keeps little ones happy and gives adults time to unwind. A spare bedroom, loft, or finished basement (available in many Maronda designs) can work perfectly – built-in flex space gives you the freedom for auxiliary space however you see fit!
8. Don’t Forget to Enjoy Yourself
Your guests are there to spend time with you, not to critique your hosting abilities. Turn on some background music, light a candle, and let the evening unfold naturally. A relaxed host makes for relaxed guests.
Hosting doesn’t have to be stressful—especially when your home is designed for comfort, flow, and connection. With thoughtful preparation and a welcoming atmosphere, you can create memorable moments with the people who matter most. Maronda Homes are built for living, celebrating, and enjoying life’s best occasions—one gathering at a time.
