Countdown to Christmas - 5

Here's the first of this week's five festive outfits! Apologies for the indoor snapshots. This is what I wore for a little Christmas gathering I had over the weekend, and it was way past dark by the time I got gussied up! I absolutely love to host (especially around the holidays), but I tend to overdo it and get needlessly stressed out. This time, I challenged myself to have a super simple and small get-together that wouldn't be taxing or expensive, and (apart from one frosting fiasco) it was a smashing success!

Dress: Vintage
Necklace: Vintage
Shoes: Nine West

1. THE DRINKS

When I have friends over for drinks, I like to make one signature cocktail for the gathering (either a classic or an invention) and one other option (wine or beer). This time, I concocted a delicious Christmas-y cocktail that might be my new favorite! I also had egg nog and red wine on hand.

2 oz. Rye Whiskey
3 oz. Ginger Beer
1 oz. 100% Cranberry Juice
1 Large Orange Slice (fully squeezed into the mix)

Serve over ice.

2. THE SNACKS

I served baked brie and a few types of cookies. For the brie, I removed the top of the rind, poured some fresh cranberry sauce (from Trader Joe's, not homemade) over the top, popped it in the oven for 10 or 15 minutes until it got warm and served with crackers. Easy and yummy!

3. THE TUNES

I love putting together playlists. Here's a sampling from my Christmas mix!