How to throw a festive fundraiser: Four decorating tips

Hosting for Hope

Hostess helpers

The holidays are a time to come together. For editor-in-chief Jane Francisco, that's translated into lots of entertaining over the years. Her secret? "I choose simple dishes and amp up my decor," she says. "If you serve your easiest go-to dish on gold plates, it looks stunning, tastes great and gives you time for the little extras." This month she's trying something new, however. She signed up for Hosting for Hope and has asked her guests to donate, too, instead of bringing a hostess gift or a bottle of wine. Funds raised will go to a nearby shelter to help women and children who are victims of violence. "I love that it's a national organization collecting funds for local use," says Jane. "Shelters are often anonymous so it can be hard to know how to help out in your own neighbourhood. I can't think of a better reason to get together with my friends."

Throw a shindig as Jane did to support women's shelters in your own community. The Canadian Women's Foundation and Homesense have made it easy—and fun! Just visit Hosting for Hope to e-vite your friends to your party. Make a $50 contribution and get a $25 gift card for Homesense (perfect to spruce up your house). In lieu of a bottle of wine or hostess gift, your guests can make a donation online when they RSVP.

Thank guests with a DIY gift box

This pretty package is made from oversized paint chips! It's perfect for cookies or homemade fudge or to dress up store-bought treats.

Pick a fun, fresh palette

Christmas decorating can quickly get out of hand, so keep it easy by sticking to a simple colour palette. Here, we drew inspiration from the fresh wreaths our florist made and chose bright green as our accent. Large glass trees in greens, aqua and white line the centre of the table. We laid wallpaper on the table and cut it to the edge for a quick and modern tablecloth.

Get this look: Chairs, plates, ornaments, Homesense. Wreaths, Sheridan Nurseries. Ribbon, Mokuba, 416-504-5358.

Throw together a 5-minute holiday window

A cozy nook is perfect for casual pre-dinner conversation. The sill is quickly decorated by randomly mixing cedar clippings (from your garden or your tree), oversized ornaments and simple Christmas balls.

Get this look: Chairs, table, rug, ornaments, Homesense. Wreath, Sheridan Nurseries. Ribbon, Mokuba, 416-504-5358.

Have custom wreaths made

Most local garden centres and florists will whip up a fresh wreath in whatever shape or size fits your space. Jane chose the simplicity of boxwood with stunning satin ribbon. Each is hung with a sturdy removable hook that won't damage the painted wall finish.

Get this look: Bowl, glass, Homesense. 3M hooks, Shoppers Drug Mart.

Happy host

Jane Francisco brings the party into the kitchen.

To participate in this great cause, visit Hosting for Hope for more information!