Holiday Entertaining Tips: Wine, Cheese, Cocktails & Florals That Elevate Every Gathering

The holidays have a way of bringing people together unlike any other time of year. Friends reconnect, families gather, and coworkers celebrate a year’s worth of effort. While every host wants their event to feel memorable, what truly makes an evening unforgettable often comes down to a few key details done exceptionally well. Thoughtful pairings of food and wine, inviting scents and colors from seasonal florals, and a perfectly balanced cocktail or two can transform a simple evening into something extraordinary.

At Lynne-Lee Experiences, we believe that entertaining shouldn’t be stressful or complicated. With a few curated touches, anyone can host beautifully and focus on what really matters - connection, conversation, and shared joy.

Holiday Entertaining Tips for Building a Charcuterie Board That Feels Like a Feast

Every great list of holiday entertaining tips begins with something delicious and shareable. A well-designed charcuterie board is the heart of casual luxury. It welcomes guests immediately and invites them to gather and graze at their own pace.

Start with variety and texture. Combine aged cheeses like manchego or cheddar with softer selections such as brie or camembert. Add layers of color with fresh fruit, roasted nuts, and artisanal crackers. The key is contrast - something creamy next to something crunchy, something savory balanced by something sweet.

When curating your selections, remember visual balance. Arrange items in clusters rather than lines so the board feels abundant but intentional. A drizzle of local honey or a spoonful of jam adds warmth and sophistication.

For readers looking for charcuterie catering in Des Moines or inspiration for holiday grazing tables, this mix of flavors, textures, and colors is the perfect starting point.

Add the Perfect Wine Pairings

No holiday gathering is complete without the right bottle on the table. Wine has a way of bringing people together, creating both comfort and conversation. The goal isn’t to find a “fancy” bottle, but one that complements what you’re serving and the mood you want to create.

For boards rich in cured meats and aged cheeses, a dry red such as a cabernet blend or merlot offers the right balance of depth and structure. For lighter spreads featuring seafood, fruit, or goat cheese, a crisp white with citrus notes pairs beautifully. When in doubt, a semi-sweet rosé bridges both worlds - refreshing, festive, and universally loved.

Hosting a small tasting with friends can also turn your gathering into an experience. It’s less about the rules and more about connection - discovering new favorites and sharing stories behind each bottle.

Create a Signature Craft Cocktail

Another essential holiday entertaining tip is to offer one or two memorable cocktails. Choose recipes that reflect your event’s tone and are easy to prepare. For something cozy, a spiced cranberry mule or a smoked maple old fashioned feels timeless. For something light and festive, try a sparkling rosemary gin spritz.

The best cocktails rely on balance, presentation, and ease. Use fresh ingredients, high-quality mixers, and simple garnishes - a sprig of rosemary, a twist of orange peel, or a sugared cranberry skewer adds effortless elegance.

If you’re hosting a larger group, batch cocktails are your best friend. Prepare them ahead of time so you can focus on guests instead of mixing drinks all night.

Finish with Floral Centerpieces That Set the Mood

No space feels complete without florals. They’re often overlooked, yet they bring harmony to every table. Winter arrangements don’t need to be limited to reds and greens - consider creamy neutrals, soft blush tones, and greenery like eucalyptus or pine for a refined look.

A centerpiece doesn’t just fill space; it anchors the entire table visually. When paired with candles or soft lighting, flowers create an inviting atmosphere that enhances every other sensory detail - aroma, taste, and warmth.

If you’re ordering from a Des Moines florist, look for long-lasting blooms such as amaryllis, roses, or ranunculus. They’ll hold up beautifully through multiple gatherings.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

When wine, cheese, cocktails, and florals come together, they create more than ambiance - they create memories. Each element invites the senses to participate: the aroma of herbs, the sparkle of glassware, the softness of flowers, and the flavor of something shared.

The best hosts know that perfection isn’t the goal - presence is. The goal is to curate a space where people can relax, laugh, and remember how it felt to be there.

At Lynne-Lee, we’ve built our brand around that exact philosophy. Whether you’re hosting a small dinner, a corporate party, or a weekend celebration, start with intention. Choose what makes people feel seen and cared for, and let those details tell your story.

Because at the end of the day, entertaining isn’t about the food or the flowers - it’s about connection. Every board, bouquet, and glass poured is simply an invitation to gather.