Top Holiday Hosting Stressors and Headaches

woman standing by christmas tree with decoration tired rubbing nose and eyes feeling fatigue and headache., holiday stressors and headache concept

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The holiday season can be a bit demanding when it comes to hosting or entertaining out-of-town guests. From preparing a guest bedroom to efficiently managing tasks, hosts generally need to ensure their home is fully stocked and ready well in advance.

A survey commissioned by Article and One Poll has provided valuable insights into the top stressors associated with holiday hosting. They surveyed 2,000 people, asking them various questions related to hosting during the holiday season.

Top Holiday Hosting Stressors

The survey findings indicated that, although a majority (59%) expressed their enjoyment of hosting guests at their homes, many still encounter stressors during the process. These stressors include ensuring everyone has a good time (32%), deciding on the right food to serve (30%), and ensuring the home is cleaned up in time for the guests' arrival (28%).

According to their research, thirty-two percent of respondents feel unprepared for hosting guests almost all the time. A significant number mentioned facing challenges related to seating (18%), space (18%), and having enough food (14%) when their guests arrive.

The majority (71%) mentioned that they need at least a full day to prepare their homes for hosting, with an average preparation time of three days. Only one in five people rush to clean up their homes within hours of their guests' arrival.

Before Guest Arrival

Prior to their guests' arrival, hosts tend to rush to tidy up and organize (62%), cook meals (61%), plan the menu (41%), prepare drinks (40%), and create a background music playlist (24%).

The survey also revealed that 55% of respondents consider it important that their guests have a positive impression of their homes, while a third (31%) confessed to being so preoccupied with ensuring their guests' comfort that they forget to enjoy themselves.

Nearly seven out of ten (69%) individuals stated that they have a "number one" rule in their homes when guests come over. Many even shared their rules, which include the expectation that guests remove their shoes before entering, dine at the dining table, clean up after themselves if they make a mess, and, most importantly, make themselves at home and have a great time.

Take a look at the complete study here.

Holidays stressors

Kayla MorganWriter

Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it. She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel. A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community. She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.