Steel Blue Anorak c/o / Ivory Cable Knit Sweater c/o  / Blue Cashmere Scarf c/o / Jeans c/o / Boots c/o

Our home is the hub of holiday activities with friends and family and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  One of my goals for this holiday season is to be organized and relaxed when my guest arrive.  Today, I’ve partnered with Talbots to share my tips for creating a Warm Welcome Home with you.

1. Make sure your entry is guest ready.

Set the tone from the minute they begin walk up to your door.  I just had all my windows cleaned and now that the rain has given way, finally decorated my porch!  You can see my tips for creating a beautiful pumpkins display here.

2.  Be dressed and ready when they arrive.

I’m always rushing around even to the last minute it seems so being able to be dressed in a beautiful style helps me to be calm and confident.  Talbots sweaters and scarves are a great way to look pulled together even in a busy season.  Be sure to check out their amazing Friends and Family Sale!

3. Have a go-to cocktail for the season. 

One of my favorites is Simply Pomgranate juice, rosemary simple syrup and a splash of champagne.  You can easily make this a mocktail by substituting Topo Chico or club soda.  Serve over ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary.  You can find other drinks here.

4. Keep ingredients for simple appetizers on hand. 

These sweet and savory baked brie recipes and my charcuterie board are easy and quick!

5. Create a mood with scent and music. 

I light my favorite candles then load the CD player (I know, so old-school!) with Harry Connick, Natalie Cole, Elton John and other classics or tune into a holiday station on satellite radio.

6. Set the table early. 

I’ll be sharing this year’s Thanksgiving tablescape later this week but see others here, here and here.  Creating the tablescape early really makes me excited to welcome my guests and shows them I’ve truly prepared for their arrival.  Doing this even a week in advance makes entertaining less stressful.

The Talbots Friends and Family sale offering 30% off your purchase with Code: FRIENDS30 has been extended and sweetened with 40% off one item.  I’d surely suggest this gorgeous anorak.  It will be so cozy this winter.  They have many more gorgeous items to have you looking your best from casual to cocktail this holiday season!

Cheers to the holidays!

xo

Alicia

SHOP MY FAVORITE TALBOT’S STYLES

Thank you to Talbot’s for sponsoring this post.  All selections and opinions are my own.

Photos by Audrie Dollins.

Outdoor display from Nicholshon-Hardie.

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