Between the cooking, cleaning, decorating, and entertaining, planning a holiday party can no doubt drain you of your energy. Now, try doing it all while pregnant. Ali Fedotowsky, TV personality, blogger of AliLuvs, and former Bachelorette, knows a thing or two about playing host while pregnant.
She is expecting her second child with husband Kevin Manno in May, and the couple’s first daughter, Molly, is 17 months old. While they are busy preparing for holiday entertaining, Fedotowsky took the time to teach us her tricks for keeping sane while spreading cheer.
Whether you’re just a couple weeks in or due in the next few months, follow her advice to pull off a party without a hitch.
Plan ahead
Go ahead and prepare as much as you can in the days leading up to a party. Fedotowsky says she chops veggies and preps her dishes beforehand to keep her stress level down on the day of. Then, simply store the food in the pots they will be cooked in, she says.
Prepare the kitchen for cooking and/or baking, too. Set out any cookware, measuring tools, and serving dishes that will be needed. You may also want to consider setting the table and creating your flower arrangements in advance to cut down on your day-of to-do list.
Take a seat
Give your feet a break when you’re in the kitchen. “I usually pull up a barstool to wherever I’m working, as they are the right height for my countertops,” says Fedotowsky, who told us that she tends to blackout a lot during pregnancy. Sitting ensures that you are both comfortable and safe. Remember to take breaks and stay hydrated as you work.
Listen to your body
Pace yourself. Fedotowsky admits that socializing while pregnant can be extremely tiring. “When extended family comes to town, I want to be with them as much as possible, but I’m exhausted and it’s a struggle to keep up conversation,” she says. Her biggest advice is to schedule breaks. Listen to your body and rest whenever you need it, whether that be sitting on the couch while socializing or lying down in another room.
Pamper yourself
Treat yourself to a relaxing day after your guests leave. While the holidays come with their own set of expenses, booking a day away or a spa package is totally worth it. Plus, Fedotowsky shares her secret for cutting costs: “When you’re buying your gifts, use a points card,” she says. “Build up points, and then use them for a free day at a hotel. It’s like you get a kickback for shopping! It took years to get my husband to understand that. ”
In fact, after Thanksgiving, Fedotowsky and her family spent a day at the Beverly Hills Marriott, relaxing and ordering room service courtesy ofChase Marriott Rewards Credit Card(Ali is currently in a partnership with the company). She said it was the best thing she could have done.