It’s no secret that Sydney Carlson is obsessed with food and the kitchen. Having co-founded the viral phone accessories and lifestyle brand, Wildflower Cases, she has gone onto launch a new concept that fuses her love of cooking and design — a cookware and kitchen studio named Lynnee.

Carlson says she has always been fascinated by food and got really into cooking early on. “I was shopping for pots and pans when moving out of my parents’ house when I realized that I couldn’t find any cute ones I loved,” When asked about her inspiration for Lynnee, Carlson shares: “The idea all hit me at once.” The Californian-raised entrepreneur and social media personality decided right there and then that she would combine her 12+ years of business experience with Wildflower Cases with her passion for food and cooking.

Having launched earlier in the fall this year, Lynnee’s simple yet striking offerings — hot pink frying pan and spatula, apron and mitts featuring leopard print, pink lace and bows — have already amassed a cult following thanks to Carlson’s bold yet sweet take on cooking.

“I love food,” says Carlson, and notes that the holidays is one of her favorite time of the year because she gets to make all the dishes “that feel like a warm hug.” “I’m definitely hosting,” adds Carlson, before teasing: “And you’re definitely invited.” For the upcoming holiday season, the founder shares her simple hosting tips for an enjoyable yet relaxing gathering.

What’s your one secret on making the gathering an extra special one?

Surprise games! Last year my friend Dru and I hid trivia questions about our friends on papers under everyone’s chairs, and in the middle of dinner we said: “Now if everyone can look under their chairs…” I felt like a talk show host, it was a huge hit.

What are your go-to recipes for hosting for the holiday season?

I’m always on mac and cheese duty, among other things. But every year I try and out-do myself with something new. I recently made a fresh green bean casserole and it was unbelievable! Also whipped mascarpone sweet potatoes — next level.

NB: you can find a lot of Carlson’s recipes on her “Cooking with Lynnee” series on her YouTube channel.

When hosting a big group, what are your tips in making sure everyone — including yourself as the host — have a good time?

My tips especially for the host would be to relax! Do the dishes tomorrow, wash the stain out later, just enjoy yourself and be present with the people around you. It’s so important to appreciate times like these and worry about the little things a little bit less. Oh and maybe some extra trash bags. And a giant bowl of sangria also always helps.

Gift ideas for loved ones, especially those who are hard to buy for or seem to have everything?

I mean if you’re asking me, I’m naturally gonna say a Wildflower Case. We’ve got a case for everyone! I love picking out cases for people depending on their personality and what case I think would fit them best. I also love personalizing anything for someone — stitch their name on something, rhinestone their initials, you name it — it’s so fun to make something extra special.

Finally, tips for those juggling multiple roles in life like you — how to properly unwind and get that much-needed rest during the holiday season?

Though the holidays can be overwhelming, whether it’s with love and/or stress, I still make sure to find time to decompress. Baking cookies, getting a new holiday scented candle, putting on my pyjamas at 7:00pm and turning on a Christmas movie are all ways that truly calm me during this time. I’m all for inner peace, so take the time this holiday season to bake yourself your favorite sweet treat and relax!