Be a Healthy, Happy Guest

5 strategies to maximize fun without burning out this holiday. Plus, a round up of chic hostess gifts to ensure you get invited back.

Celia Chen

Nov 28, 2024

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Literally you could gift anything from Flamingo Estate to anyone for any occasion and it would be perfect. Even the gift boxes are stunning.

The holiday season is upon us, bringing a mix of cheer and dread.

Work deadlines and social obligations can deplete our energy at a rapid pace, if we don’t have a plan.

You might know me as a health optimization expert but did you know I’m a former New York party girl? I spent close to two decades producing lavish events for luxury brands and celebrities so I know how to have a good time.

Yet, these days the real flex is enjoying yourself fully without trashing your health along the way. Read my post Joy is a Biomarker [here].

Reminder: the holidays aren’t the moment to start optimizing. The goal here is to have a fantastic time and just try to get through the rest of the year unscathed.

Inside this post:

Valuable strategies for getting the most out of your social season without getting taken down by exhaustion or the flu
My curated round up of chic hostess gifts* so you are remembered as the most favorite guest

*can also be used for White Elephant

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Let’s start with realistic expectations: you can’t magically “boost your immune system overnight,” because that requires consistent, daily efforts.

Another fact: while you’ll likely encounter more germs around this time of year, a strong immune system should keep illness at bay.

My party philosophy: choose your occasions and company wisely then fully enjoy those moments. Avoid overextending yourself just to please others.

Nourish your body in all ways to prepare for this festive marathon.

5 Strategies to Stay Sane (and Resilient)

Strengthen Your Defenses
- Besides nourishing food and adequate rest, add antioxidants and adaptogens to manage increased stress. I love Beekeeper Naturals Propolis Immune Support Spray and Propolis Stress Support with ashwagandha.
- Wash hands frequently with soap & water to avoid the spread of viruses.
Don’t Arrive Hungry
- Eat protein before a party to keep you satiated so you can navigate the hors d’oeuvres more strategically. The fastest way to drain your energy is to load up on sugar and refined carbs that unnecessarily spike your blood sugar then make you crash.
Drink Mindfully
- Your first drink is the best drink. Neuroscientists advise that you may feel better with drink one but it’s diminishing returns after that. Sip it slowly—and avoid drinking on an empty stomach to mitigate negative effects.
- Use liposomal glutathione before and after drinking to help the live detox.
- Do NOT take Tylenol (acetaminophen) after drinking. It will not proactively cure a hangover and the combination can severely damage your liver. Stick to water with electrolytes to rehydrate.
Time Your Arrival for Maximum Impact
- Early: Anna Wintour, the famous editor-in-chief of Vogue, was notorious for arriving early. It was a power move. This strategy allows you to clock some quality face time with the host before other guests or entertaining duties interrupt.
- Late: My jet set raver friends joke that the party doesn’t start until they arrive. This crew shows up late and heads right to the dance floor. It’s like the party gets an injection of fresh energy! In this case—go late, go big then get out before people get sloppy.
- Either way, once you’ve made your memorable entrance, it’s generally fine to slip out quietly. Irish exits are the best.
Set Your Boundaries
- Learn to say, “No, thank you.” It’s perfectly fine to graciously decline an invitation and thank them for including you. However, saying yes and not showing up, especially to a seated dinner, is just bad form.

And, if you don’t heed any my advice but end up having the best time of your life, then just go get an IV drip of NAD+ or glutathione to recover and call me in the new year so we can reboot!

OPTIMIZE ME (IN JANUARY)

The Hostess Gift

Since I don’t drink, it’s not on brand for me to bring wine or booze to a party—plus it’s a bit unoriginal. I prefer delivering gifts in these categories:

a healthy indulgence that is exquisitely packaged (chocolate, tinned fish)
an activity that creates memorable connections between guests (game, cards)
a beautiful, functional gift that will last longer than the party (soap, towels)

Any of these would be a lovely gesture as a guest (and ensures that you get invited back).