How to Prep the Perfect Holiday Buffet

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of BJ’s Wholesale Club.

The holidays are all about gathering – friends, family, gifts and, of course, food and drink. One of the easiest ways to entertain is by setting up a holiday buffet. You can do so much of the work ahead of time and even set up your tablescape days before.

Part of the process, for me, means a trip to BJ’s Wholesale Club where I can take care of everything in one stop. Did you know that more than 26% of Americans need at least 24 hours to prepare their home before a holiday party? BJ’s saves their members time and money and reduces that time spent!

I’m going to walk you through how to plan a buffet table so that you can focus on your own get-together instead of sitting in the kitchen. One of my tips includes how I was able to score the best serving ware items at BJ’s Wholesale Club – for just under $100.

Tip 1: Location, Location, Location!

Select a location for your table. Find a location where people can gather without blocking space for others. Put your table in a central location.

Tip 2: Holiday Decor

Dress up your table with a runner, holiday decor, easy decorations (think gold pinecones, ornaments in a jar, candles, signs, etc.).

Tip 3: Decide on a Menu

Sit down and decide what you want to serve. Have a good ratio between hot and cold items. Consider what you’ll need to prep and pull from the oven. You want plenty of things that can go from fridge to table. BJ’s has you covered here with appetizer and party platters – the sky is the limit and with NO extra work on your part.

Tip 4: Head to BJ’s Wholesale Club

One trip and you’re done. Pick up pre-made items and any ingredients for items you’re making. Stock up on party essentials so no one is running out mid-party. It’s a good time to also make sure you have great serving ware, which is what I did this holiday season. For just under $100 look at what I was able to add to my entertaining collection.

I kept in mind what I was serving and purchased items that will give me the most versatility.

Tip 5: Table Real Estate

Decide on your starting point and whether people can gather on both sides. Have a focal point that tells people where to begin (a centerpiece, a display, a sign, plates are usually a good indicator). Map out where your serving ware will go and label them. You can do this days in advance if you need to.

Tip 6: Fill in the Gaps

Make your table look festive with lights, more decor or keep it clean and simple with a few candles.

Tip 7: Enjoy!

Prepare what you need to, ahead of time, and make a plan for what needs to be prepped right before guests arrive. The key is being able to welcome your guests and move food to your serving ware with no fuss.

My table is ready to go – and I know that I can just focus on enjoying myself thanks to some planning and shopping at BJ’s Wholesale Club.

Want to get the look and pick up the same serving ware? Check out the products I purchased from BJ’s.

By shopping at BJ’s, you’ll make entertaining easy and affordable, saving time and money. How do you prep for holiday entertaining? Happy Holidays!

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