When it comes to planning this year’s Christmas party you might need to channel your inner Santa, make a to-do list and check it twice! Here are 5 tips for planning your next Christmas party! While Christmas is touted as “the most wonderful time of the year”, it can also be the craziest! No matter how much you are hustling and bustling this holiday season, we think you’ll appreciate the ability to tackle the party to-do list without losing the Christmas spirit!
#1: Begin Christmas party plans as early as you can. With Thanksgiving a few short weeks before Christmas and a million holiday preparations in between, your spare time may be non-existent. The earlier you can knock out some of your party preparations, the better. I suggest choosing your party date, preparing your guest list and making and ordering invitations. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season upon everyone, mailing out your invitations a little earlier than normal allows guests to get your event on their calendars before other plans are made. At the very least, send a “save the date” via email to alert your guests of the fun to come.
#2: Deck your home for the holidays early in the season (and most definitely long before party day). The great thing about planning a Christmas party is you can utilize the holiday decorations you already have on hand to spruce up your space. Lit garlands and wreaths, a trimmed tree and treasured holiday décor go a long way to create a festive holiday spirit! Add music and scented candles to invigorate the senses.
#3: Choose a simple, easy-to-execute menu plan. Because Christmas is such a busy time, guests are understanding of a simpler party menu. Choose a few tried and true recipes for appetizers, dips and desserts that are easy to prepare, can be made ahead and allow for self-service. Allow yourself to purchase some ready-made items to spare on your time! Cheese and meat platters, fruit and dip and various finger foods are great choices. Invite guests to contribute to the celebration by bringing their favorite holiday appetizer or dessert to share.
#4: Gather festive linens, serving platters, utensils and party ware. Whether you pull these items from your own collections at home, borrow them from friends or purchase new, plan ahead for the items needed to serve food at your party. Linens can be ironed ahead, serving trays, dishes and stemware washed and any paper goods purchased. Store these items in a clean, safe place until it’s time to setup.
#5: Prep a simple Christmas party favor to send home with guests. Whether you bake up a take home holiday treat or set out dessert bags or takeout boxes at your dessert station, planning for a favor is a nice accent on a fun party. Guests love taking home a sweet or savory treat to enjoy after the party.
Thoughtful preparation will result in a wonderful Christmas party enjoyed with loved ones. And the best news of all? Avoiding the last minute stress, will mean you can enjoy it too!
We can’t wait to see and hear about your Christmas parties this year! Tag @andersruff on Instagram with your Christmas party posts!
