International Women's Day (IWD) is a globally recognized occasion that celebrates the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. It's a day to acknowledge the progress made towards gender equality while also highlighting the challenges that still exist. Each year, on March 8th, people around the world come together to honour women's rights, advocate for gender parity, and promote women's empowerment.

Did you know?

The roots of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century when women started demanding better working conditions, suffrage, and equal rights. The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States in 1909, following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. The idea quickly gained traction, and in 1911, International Women's Day was established, with the first gathering held in several European countries.

How can you support International Women's Day?

1. Raise Awareness: Share information about International Women's Day on social media platforms, blogs, or in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues.
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses: Choose to patronize women-owned businesses or support organizations that promote economic opportunities for women.
3. Promote Inclusivity: Foster inclusivity and diversity in your personal and professional life by advocating for equal opportunities and representation for women from diverse backgrounds, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, women with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
4. Educate Yourself and Others: Take the time to educate yourself about issues affecting women and girls, including gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, and intersectional feminism.

International Women's Day serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made in advancing gender equality and the work that remains to be done. It's a day to celebrate the achievements of women, acknowledge their resilience, and renew our commitment to building a more just and inclusive world for all. As we commemorate International Women's Day, let us stand together in solidarity, amplify women's voices, and strive towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive, free from discrimination and oppression.

#InspireInclusion #IWD2024 #InternationalWomensDay

The post International Women’s Day 2024: #InspireInclusion appeared first on Realstar Blog.

We are excited to announce that October 14th marks International E-Waste Day, a global initiative dedicated to responsible disposal of electronic waste (e-waste). As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, we invite you to join us in this important worldwide event.

Did you know?

According to the UN, 8 kg of e-waste per person will be produced worldwide in 2023. This means 61.3 million tonnes of electronic waste is discarded within a year – more than the weight of the Great Wall of China!

What we are doing:

In 2022, Realstar launched a formal e-waste collection and recycling program across our properties, to minimize our environmental impact. Together, we diverted 1,267 pounds of e-waste from landfills, minimizing the harmful effects of e-waste on our planet. Going forward, we aim to continue this positive trend and achieve even greater results.

Here's how you can participate in E-Waste Day on October 14th:

1. Gather Your E-Waste: Start by identifying any old or unused electronic devices and accessories you no longer need. This can include old computers, laptops, cell phones, chargers, cables, and other electronic gadgets. Drop off any items at the designated e-waste bin at your building.
2. Be Mindful of Your Electronic Consumption: As you declutter your electronic devices, take a moment to reflect on your electronic consumption habits. Consider ways to reduce unnecessary electronic purchases and prolong the lifespan of your devices through proper care and maintenance.
3. Spread the Word: Encourage your friends, neighbours, and family members to participate in E-Waste Day as well.

We appreciate your continued support for our e-waste program, and together, we can make a significant difference on October 14th. Let's come together as a community to protect our environment and create a cleaner, greener future.

The post Join Us for International E-Waste Day on October 14th! appeared first on Realstar Blog.

The sun is shining, the restrictions put in place to protect our communities from the spread of COVID-19 are slowly lessening; and we are ready for a ‘new’ normal to begin.

We are pleased to announce that Realstar is preparing to re-open property amenity spaces in accordance with our local, provincial and Federal government guidelines. Amenity spaces will be opened in phases as permitted. While we are excited and recognize the anticipation by residents, some amenities may open while others will remain closed as we work to safely open them. Your patience is appreciated.

In addition to the safety protocols we have become accustomed to, and in an effort to keep our residents and employees safe, when we open the amenity spaces we ask that you follow the protocols below:

	Gyms, pools, patios, social rooms and any other amenity space are to be used at your own risk.
	Guests will not be permitted in gyms, pools, patios, social rooms and any other amenity space until further notice.
	Residents will not use any amenity spaces if they are sick or required to self-isolate.
	Residents will maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet or 2 metres while using amenity spaces.
	Residents are encouraged to wear face masks when accessing and using amenity areas.
	Realstar will provide disinfectant spray and cleaning cloths in certain amenity spaces and residents are expected to clean gym equipment and barbeques after each use.
	Realstar will limit the number of occupants for each amenity space. The occupancy limits will be posted at the entrance to the area.
	Residents are required to wash or sanitize their hands before entering any amenity space.
	Amenity spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis and residents are asked to limit their time in the areas to no more than 60 minutes to allow other residents to use the space.
	Puzzles, books, pool cues, table tennis paddles and other items have been removed from all social rooms until further notice. Furniture will be removed from the pool area.
	Any abuse of the rules may result in the closing of the amenity space

It is through shared consideration for one another that we will continue to be able to enjoy community amenities.

For additional information related to the re-opening of amenity spaces, we encourage residents to check your resident portal and/or email or please connect with your on-site property management team. 

We thank you for your continued understanding and cooperation as we phase in the re-opening of our amenity spaces.

The post Moving Forward! | Realstar is Delighted to Announce the Opening of Amenity Spaces appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Realstar Announces New Features to Ensure a Safe Rental Experience – Touch Free Leasing

The health and safety of our residents, employees and future residents has always been our priority; especially as we all navigate through COVID-19. For over 45 years, Realstar has been helping Canadians coast-to-coast find and enjoy their perfect apartment home. While many aspects of daily living have changed in recent months; Realstar’s commitment to providing safe and well-maintained homes for residents to enjoy remains in place. We have adjusted our rental process to offer a safe and convenient experience without the need to meet in-person.  We call it touch free leasing.  

1. Discover your new home on Realstar.ca

Realstar.ca is the perfect place to begin your new apartment home search, with over 160 properties across Canada and all the essential information needed to help narrow your search. Each community has a website that includes photo galleries and floor plans pages with pricing and availability so you can select your ideal layout!

Many properties also offer a 3D tour where you can virtually experience a model suite. Not sure the community is a fit for you? Each property site also features a Nearby Property section where you can explore additional Realstar communities close by.

2. Virtually Tour with Us

See something you like? Our professional on-site management teams are here to help! We would be delighted to offer a more personal one-on-one virtual tour where you can see your new home and ask any questions. You can book your private virtual tour using the online ‘Book a Tour’* scheduler or via phone or email.  We will send you a link to connect directly via video conferencing tools such as Zoom, Tour.Rentals or FaceTime/Skype.   

3. We’ll Send the Details

We want you to feel comfortable while virtually touring with us and recognize the details could be a lot to take in. After your tour, we can send you a customized email outlining the property, the toured apartment, rental fees, amenity spaces and the next steps towards completing an application.

4. Complete an application and pay your Last Month Rent (LMR)/Security Deposit(SD)* online

If you liked what you see and are interested in joining the community, our team will ensure you have everything you need to submit an application online from the comfort of your home. Once your application is approved you will be able to provide digital payment towards your LMR or SD*.
* depending on property and your province of residence.

5. Digitally Sign and Return Your Lease

You’re almost there! We will send you a link inviting you to digitally sign your lease via RentCafe or Docu-Sign*. From the convenience and security of your own home, you can read, sign and return your new apartment home lease.
* depending on property and your province of residence.

6. Touch Free Move-Ins

Welcome home! Prior to picking up your keys via a contactless delivery system, our on-site team will reach out via video conference to welcome and walk you through the move-in details (ex. booking the elevator for private use and arranging any moving room(s). We are pleased to offer a video conference suite inspection or provide you with a form to sign and submit digitally. Your welcome package and our contact information will be waiting for you when you arrive.

7. Your Best Move Starts Here!

At Realstar, you can expect unparalleled customer service that exceeds sure to exceed expectations of what a perfect home can be. Guaranteed.

The post Realstar Announces New Features to Ensure a Safe Rental Experience – Touch Free Leasing appeared first on Realstar Blog.

April 22, 2020 marks the world’s 50^th Earth Day and the opportunity to reflect on global environmental issues – and it will be the first time in history it will be 100% digital! Striving towards a better, more sustainable future for all, there has never been a better time to start making a difference.

This year Earth Day will be celebrated during one of the most prolific global pandemics experienced in generations. Traditionally groups would have gathered to celebrate, discuss and lobby towards movement. This year Earth Day will be commemorated entirely online with countless digital resources available towards awareness and taking action. This Earth Day is the perfect time to start thinking globally and being mindful of actions towards bettering the planet.

GET ENGAGED

• Earth Day Live 2020 – series of discussions & performances
• Animation & Poetry for Our 50th Earth Day – program of short animated films to acknowledge 50 years of Earth Days

INTERESTED IN TAKING ACTION?

There are several habit-forming changes; big and small, that you can start today that will work towards positive and lasting environmental results. Here’s a few:

• Use reusable water bottles and eliminate plastic water bottle waste
• Eat less meat or consider a Meatless Monday challenge and lessen polluting gasses and water usage through production
• Use less hot water showering and doing laundry
• Consider taking shorter showers instead of baths
• Ensure to recycle recyclable items instead of disposing of them in the trash
• Use reusable products rather than disposables
• Change your light bulbs to LED – they last 10 times longer and use two-thirds less energy!

The post EARTH DAY ISN’T JUST ANOTHER DAY – 50TH ANNIVERSARY appeared first on Realstar Blog.

The beauty about living through this mandated time of self-isolation is the countless online resources that are available to us.  Alleviate boredom and improve your well-being with a variety of resources that will keep you busy, challenge your brain, stay healthy and connected through COVID-19.

Entertainment

Does the COVID-19 pandemic have you feeling bored? Do you miss enjoying a bag of your favourite movie theatre popcorn or dressing up and taking in the latest musical? There are countless options available right now to keep you entertained all in the comfort of your own home:

• The Show Must Go On: Andrew Lloyd Webber offers free musicals to stream on YouTube 
• l'Orchestre classique de Montréal: 45-minute session streamed on Facebook 
• Netflix Party: new feature that are designed to connect long-distance friends, family, and neighbors 

Health/Fitness

While lounging across the couch in front of the tv has it’s time and place, there has never been a better time to become a fitness junkie. Here are some resources to keep you moving and staying healthy while waiting for the pandemic to pass:

• Core Power Yoga: Offering hour long classes and meditation 
• Barre 3: 15 Day at Home Challenge 
• Planet Fitness: Work-ins via YouTube 
• Pilates Anytime: 15 day trial – online, anytime 
• Pelaton: Extended 90 day trial! 

Education

Staying at home through COVID-19 may have confined us into our homes, but it has also provided us with an invaluable commodity – time. There’s never been a better time to learn a new skill, embrace a hobby or simply try something new with your family. Whether you are looking to read the newest best seller, develop your inner chef or simply looking to keep your mind sharp, below are some of the resources available:

• Learn to cook with industry leaders:
  • Chef Massimo Bottura hosts “Kitchen Quarantine” everyday at 3pm on his Instagram 
  • Milk Street Cooking School: Offering more than a dozen free online courses 
  • America’s Test Kitchen: 3 week trial 
• Read (or listen) to free books:
  • Audiable is offering a 30 day free trial and 30% off any books after 

The post Staying Healthy, Entertained and Learning through COVID-19 – Digitally appeared first on Realstar Blog.

1. Changes to Resident Services/Rental Office
   • Our commitment to unparalleled customer service and 24/7 on-site management remains in place. In light of the evolving COVID-19 situation you may experience modified set-ups. This varies across our communities and may include:
     • Office remain open with the doors locked and on-site staff ready to help via phone and email.
     • In some cases, temporary office closure or reduced office hours.
   • As always, your on-site management teams remain accessible via telephone or email and will do their best to accommodate all inquiries and requests within a reasonable timeframe. 

2. Maintenance Requests: Emergency In-Suite Maintenance Only
   • To further protect the safety of residents and employees, at this time Realstar will complete emergency in-suite maintenance only. This will help minimize the spread of the virus by reducing staff (and external contractors) entering residents’ homes.
   • Before conducting maintenance within your home, Realstar staff will ask if you have recently traveled anywhere, including by vehicle within Canada, been in close contact with someone who has a probable or confirmed case or if anyone in your household feels unwell. This will help the on-site team determine the best course of action for your safety and employees.
   • Emergency maintenance include items such as:
     • Lack of heat
     • Essential appliance failure (e.g. fridge not working)
     • Flooding
   • Did you know: You can submit maintenance requests online through the Realstar Resident Portal or App. 

3. Online: Realstar Resident Portal & App
   • The Realstar Resident Portal is an apartment rental living service offering one stop convenience for your needs 24/7.
   • Payments: From the comfort of your own home you can make quick, safe and secure payments directly from a bank account or credit card.
     • Note: Realstar acknowledges this unprecedented and evolving time may have strained residents’ resources. As such, we will be covering all 1.75% credit card processing fees charged by our service provider until further notice.
   • Maintenance: Submit maintenance requests online.
     • To help the team assess your Maintenance request, be sure to upload a photo.  
   • Accessing your account?
     • Download the Realstar Resident Portal App or login online via Realstar.ca
   • Need an account?
     • Email or phone your property and request your personal invite

4. Increased Cleaning & Sanitation
   • As we focus our effort to minimize the spread, we have increased cleaning and sanitation efforts throughout all high traffic areas including lobbies, laundry facilities and elevators.
   • Similarly, we encourage all residents to wash their hands often, especially before leaving and upon returning to their homes; this includes use of the elevators and laundry facilities.

5. Amenity Spaces Closure
   • To minimize the spread of COVID-19 and to comply with physical distancing recommendations, Realstar has made the decision to temporarily close all non-essential amenity spaces, including gyms, pools, social lounges and alike until further notice.
   • Realstar recognizes the inconvenience, but know this decision was made with the safety of you and the community in mind. Doing so enables on-site teams to focus on additional cleaning and sanitation of high traffic areas.

6. Three’s A Crowd: Elevator Etiquette, Laundry Rooms & Mail Boxes
   • Elevators:
     • When using elevator, respect the 2-3-person limitation as these are close quarters and otherwise difficult to maintain the recommended 2m distance for physical isolation. Other suggestions include:
       • Face the elevator walls
       • Wait for the next elevator  
       • Where possible, take the stairs. 
   • Laundry Facilities
     • When using the common laundry facilities, keep the recommended 6-foot physical distance from other residents.
     • Don’t wait for your wash/dry cycles to complete. Set a timer and come back to the laundry room to collect your belongings to allow other residents to use the machine(s).
     • Don’t touch another resident’s belongings.
     • Avoid using the laundry facilities if you feel unwell or are sick.
   • Mail Boxes:
     • When collecting your mail, keep the recommended 6-foot physical distance from other residents.
     • Canada Post requests all residents give their employees space and avoid opening the door or greeting them when they are filling the mailbox.
   • As always, avoid touching your face while using common areas such as lobbies, laundry facilities, elevators and mailboxes and immediately wash your hands upon return to your apartment.

7. Avoid Inviting People Over & Deliveries
   • We request all residents to comply with the recommendation to self-isolate and only leave your homes when absolutely necessary. This extends to inviting others into your home and community for the time being. Limit any visitors to essential care only.
   • This request also extends to food delivery and courier services. To comply with safety protocols and to protect you and the community, we ask residents making use of these services to meet them downstairs and outside the lobby entrances.

8. Neighbours
   • You may wish to help your neighbours such as assisting with grocery pick-up or other essential shopping. This is a great way to help each other and minimize the number of people going out in the public. If doing so, we suggest making arrangements via phone or email.
   • If you are checking up your neighbour(s) or delivering anything to them, keep the recommended 6-foot physical distance.  

9. Pets 
   • Health Canada advises there is no evidence to suggest that household pet(s) can spread COVID-19.
   • We request anyone who is self-isolating after returning home from travel or having come in contact with someone with COVID-19 not take their pets for walks and make arrangements for another family member to look after them.
   • We encourage all residents to avoid touching any pets that do not belong to them.

10. Garbage / Recycling
    • Garbage and waste management will continue as normal. We have increased cleaning and sanitation efforts throughout all high traffic areas including taking extra steps to wipe down waste chute handles where applicable.
    • We request anyone who is self-isolating after returning home from travel or having come in contact with someone with COVID-19 contact the rental office via phone or email to discuss a household waste management solution for your apartment.
    • We encourage all residents to wash their hands often, especially before leaving and upon returning to their homes; this includes using garbage and recycling chutes and bins.

11. Open Communication
    • It is our objective to keep residents informed with up-to-date information as the situation continues to unfold. We appreciate these are challenging times, and as always, we want residents to know we are here for them. We will continue to share updates as they are available.
    • Please reach out to your on-site management team if you are experiencing any issues adhering to these guidelines.

12. Government Health Resources
    • We encourage residents to follow Health Canada guidelines for COVID-19, including planning activities, assistance, travel and stocking up on essentials. Additional information is provided via the following links:
      • Updates: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html
      • Being Prepared: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/being-prepared.html
      • Benefits & Services: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/coronavirus.html

13. Government Financial Assistance Programs
14. • Canada wide: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#cerb
    • Ontario: https://budget.ontario.ca/2020/marchupdate/
    • BC: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
    • Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/sante/problemes-de-sante/a-z/coronavirus-2019/situation-coronavirus-quebec/  (or in English: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/situation-coronavirus-in-quebec/#c47907)
    • Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/covid-19-supports-for-albertans.aspx
    • Saskatchewan: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-information-for-businesses-and-workers/support-for-workers
    • Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/#support

Realstar has established a pandemic committee dedicated to actively monitoring the COVID-19 situation, related impacts and developments while delivering direction towards next steps. With over 45 years of experience in helping Canadians coast-to-coast find and enjoy their homes, Realstar remains dedicated to our ability to operate effectively while maintaining customer service. It is with the resolve of our team and communities alike that we will navigate through these changing times. Together we can reduce the spread of the COVID-19 and flatten the curve.

The post COVID-19: Resources and Conveniences for Residents appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Realstar remains committed to its efforts to help protect the health and safety of all residents and employees from the spread of COVID-19. As such, effective immediately, we have made the decision to close all amenity facilities in the building, with the exception of the laundry facilities.  In addition, we are limiting suite entries by staff and contractors to emergency work orders only.  

Realstar will also continue with its proactive approach of increasing sanitization in all high traffic areas of the building, including, but not limited to, the lobbies, elevator and laundry room. 
We would also like to remind you of the best way to protect yourself:
•    Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
•    Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
•    Cough or sneeze into sleeve and not hands.
•    Avoid shaking hands.
•    If you are using the laundry facilities, taking the elevator, walking through the lobby or any other common area of the building, please make a conscious effort to use social distancing and limit contact with fellow residents, staff or anyone in your vicinity to a recommended 6 foot distance in an effort to keep everyone safe.  
•    Please stay home and avoid close contact if you feel unwell or have been in contact with a probable or confirmed case of COVID-19. 
•    We encourage you to follow Health Canada guidelines for COVID-19, including planning your activities, travel and stocking up on essentials. Please follow this link for that information: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/being-prepared.html
By following these guidelines, we can all play a critical role in slowing the spread of this virus. 

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we all work together to keep our communities safe and healthy for all.  Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this notice, please contact your manager.

Lastly, we strongly encourage you to sign up to RentCafé to receive all the latest updates.
 

The post Important Resident Coronavirus Update #2 From Realstar Head Office appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Insurance – one of the world’s longest, most complicated business. At a time where most everything is becoming increasingly complicated; insurance is no exception. Life insurance, health insurance, auto insurance, it seems like there is an insurance for everything – your home included. It can be difficult to justify the additional spend on something so apparently intangible, but it is important to consider the monumental benefits that a nominal monthly or annual fee can provide.  

Although you can not hold it, and the premiums may leave you questioning what you get in return, tenant insurance is something that you may one day reap the benefits of. No one anticipates or truly plans for disaster, and even the most prepared can be left scrambling when faced with it. How can tenant insurance help? It’s important to know the facts:
 

What is Tenant Insurance and Why Do I Need It?

You may not own your home, but you eat, sleep and spend a large amount of time there. Chances are you have filled it with items you are likely very fond of. In the event that something happens to the property or your apartment, it is important to know your landlord’s insurance only cover the property. A tenant’s personal belongings are not included within a landlord’s coverage and it is up to the tenant to ensure they are covered. Without tenant insurance, you could be paying a large amount of money out of pocket for items lost to theft, property damage or living expenses while your apartment or the building is fixed.
 

What does Tenant Insurance Cover?
While there is a seemingly limitless array of plans and coverage out there, it is important to note the basics. Most tenant insurance will cover “your stuff” but others may include added benefit of liability and living expenses.

Contents
Chances are you are attached to the items you have filled your home with. The furniture, clothing and electronics that you have spent many a paycheck acquiring could financially be irreplaceable if all were lost at once. Beyond the losses within the boundaries of your home, tenant insurance can often include theft from your car, or loss of a valuable while on vacation.

Liability
Just because you don’t own your home doesn’t mean you aren’t responsible for any damages or accidents that may happen within it. Should someone – be it a neighbour, a friend or a family member visiting your home and injured themselves, you could be the lucky recipient of a lawsuit. Or if you are found to have caused a fire or flood that spread to neighbouring unit(s), you would be liable to pay out of pocket to repair those damages. Tenant insurance that includes liability coverage can help cover these costs.

Living Expenses
Just as most car insurance covers a replacement vehicle if your car requires repairs after an accident, some tenant insurance will provide a similar arrangement for temporary shelter should you find yourself displaced from your home. If you are a single person, it may be easy to couch surf until your place is made livable again, but the same may not hold true for a family of four. This could include staying in a hotel, eating out at restaurants and even moving expenses.

Realstar Resident Exclusive Tenant Insurance Offering  
It is never easy to anticipate the unexpected, but it is simple to prepare for it with the peace of mind provided through tenant insurance. If you were to add up the cost of replacing every item in your home should it be lost and compare that against the annual fee for tenant insurance, you will likely find it’s worth the investment – even across several years.

We value our residents and as such, all Realstar residents have access to a preferred rate for tenant insurance that costs less than $0.50 a day!  Are you a Realstar resident, protect yourself from the unexpected, purchase your tenant insurance today!

The post Better Safe Than Sorry – The Benefits of Tenant Insurance appeared first on Realstar Blog.

The holidays are supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year”. The weeks surrounding the holidays should be filled with family and friends, laughter, beautifully wrapped parcels, tear jerking holiday music and movies – it’s no wonder that everything seems to magical this time of year. As your calendar begins to fill with social commitments for work, friends and family, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos that the holidays can create. Whether you are hosting a formal or casual gathering for a large or small group this season, following these quick and easy steps can help you stay calm and coast through any stress the holiday season can present.

Manage Your Expectations
First and foremost – manage your expectations. If you are tight on time, perhaps planning an elaborate five-course dinner entirely from scratch and decking ALL your halls with all that sparkles may not be reasonable; not to mention, could leave you hiding in the kitchen polishing off a bottle of wine. Choose a menu and décor that match your lifestyle and that won’t leave you melting into a puddle of stress trying to execute.

Plan Ahead
Once you have selected a theme and a food, plan and organize what you can in advance. This includes making a shopping list (don’t forget to check it twice!) for menu items and party supplies. Buy what you can in advance and save picking up the perishables for closer to the party. You may even be able to prepare some of your items a day or two before the party – this is also a great way to let flavours enhance! Organize your space, clean and decorate what you can in advance to save yourself from having to do everything the night before.

Keep it Simple
Don’t overcomplicate and make things so difficult that neither you nor your guests enjoy your time together. Do one thing well and go lighter on others. It’s easy to get caught up in perfectionism around the holiday season and loose sight of what this time of year is truly about. Take inspiration from some of the best recipes around, a handful of ingredients but delicious nonetheless – less is more.

Spend Time with Your Guests
Most importantly, don’t forget why you are hosting a gathering – to spend time together with your guests. There is nothing worse than being locked away, hovering over a hot stove, stressing and sweating about doing everything ‘just right’. Choose where to focus your energy and efforts. If dishing up beautifully crafted entrees is going to leave you spending the majority of the evening hidden away and stressed, why not set up a self-serve station? This could include taco bars, nacho bars, pasta bars – all manner of bars! Alleviate the pressure of cooking and let your guests customize their food they way they like it – no to mention, a self-serve station is way more fun and interactive. Guaranteed, your guests will have a far more memorable time spending time laughing together then watching the host become unravelled and frazzled.

The post Host with the Most – How to Host a Stress-Free Holiday Party appeared first on Realstar Blog.