When it comes to stress-free holiday hosting, Dancing With the Stars alum Lindsay Arnold knows how to deliver. With her practical tips and clever hacks, Lindsay simplifies the process, ensuring every host can enjoy their gathering. From meal prep strategies to creating a warm ambiance, her advice transforms hosting into a manageable and even enjoyable experience.

The Essential Role of Seasoning in Holiday Cooking

For Lindsay, seasoning is a non-negotiable aspect of any dish. She emphasizes that the right salt can elevate flavors in ways most don’t realize. Partnering with Diamond Crystal Salt, Lindsay swears by its unique texture and flavor-enhancing properties. She explains that using high-quality salt, especially in dishes like her mother’s classic stuffing, ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned. This attention to detail makes a significant difference in creating memorable holiday meals.

@diamondcrystalsalt | Instagram | Partnering with Diamond Crystal Salt, Lindsay swears by its unique texture and flavor-enhancing properties.

Lindsay Arnold’s Time-Saving Kitchen Tools

Efficiency is key during the holidays, and Lindsay relies on tools that save time without compromising quality. She praises gadgets like Crock-Pots, Instant Pots, and air fryers for their ability to simplify cooking. These tools allow hosts to focus on other tasks while meals cook seamlessly in the background. Lindsay recommends planning meals for the week, consolidating grocery shopping, and prepping ingredients in advance to streamline the entire process.

Creating a Cozy Atmosphere With Thoughtful Details

According to Lindsay, the atmosphere is just as important as the food. A simple way to set the mood is with candles. She suggests gifting or using affordable options from stores like Trader Joe’s, which offer seasonal scents that double as favors for guests. Thoughtful details like this help create a welcoming and festive environment, making guests feel at home.

Budget-Friendly Decor and Hosting Favors

Decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to be expensive. Lindsay emphasizes that small, thoughtful touches can go a long way. Seasonal desserts or inexpensive candles can be used as both decor and parting gifts. These little additions not only elevate the table setting but also leave a lasting impression on guests without breaking the bank.

Family-Friendly Games and Traditions

Lindsay values traditions that bring everyone together, including the youngest family members. For her family, game time often turns into an energetic dance party, complete with costumes and performances. She also loves incorporating activities like Secret Santa to keep the spirit of giving alive. These traditions ensure that every family member, regardless of age, feels included in the festivities.

@lindsarnold | Instagram | Lindsay values traditions that unite everyone, including the youngest family members.

Why Music Is a Holiday Hosting Essential

Music is often overlooked, but Lindsay considers it a crucial element of hosting. She believes a curated Spotify playlist can set the tone for the entire event. Whether it’s relaxing background music or upbeat tracks for a dance party, the right playlist eliminates awkward silences and fosters a joyful atmosphere. Music is especially helpful for larger groups where some guests may not know each other well.

Which Dancing With the Stars Partner Would Make the Best Host?

When asked which of her former partners she’d trust to host, Lindsay’s answer is clear: Matt James. She appreciates his love for food and knows he’d nail the menu. For decor, she suggests enlisting Rachael Kirkconnell to handle the aesthetics, creating the perfect balance of style and substance. This dynamic duo, she believes, could pull off an unforgettable holiday gathering.

Through her advice, Lindsay Arnold proves that hosting doesn’t have to be stressful. By focusing on key elements like preparation, ambiance, and thoughtful details, anyone can create a holiday experience that feels effortless yet memorable. Her tips are practical, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to elevate any celebration.