Throwing a holiday party is the best way to combine the season’s top three priorities: friends, family, and food. By hosting a holiday party, you have the opportunity to bring loved ones together and celebrate by enjoying seasonal recipes and drinks.
Of course, hosting a party often ends up being a much bigger undertaking than you envisioned. Invitations, decorations, and food are just a few of the things you need to consider when planning an event. If you want to be a successful host this season, here are some of the most important components of a well-planned holiday party.
A Clear and Concise Invitation Sets the Stage
One of the biggest mistakes you can make in planning a holiday party is failing to send your invitations out in time. Admittedly, the process is arduous, so don’t hesitate to enlist the help of an online mailing service to help you out. Also, remember to include key details on your invitations. For example, they should include any necessary information such as whether your guests should bring something, your address, your mobile number, and whether guests need to RSVP.
You might also include an offer to accommodate special requests. For example, your guests should feel comfortable telling you about a dietary restriction that might impact their ability to enjoy the same refreshments as your other guests. This will ensure that you are preparing food everyone can eat or give you time to request that your guests bring a favorite dish of their own to share.
There are Several Ways to Provide Food
Cooking enough for an entire party can be overwhelming. If you are concerned about providing enough food, you may want to consider limiting your guest list. Of course, there are also alternative ways to serve food. A potluck-style party is an easy way to fill your home with an array of holiday dishes and eliminate the stress of potential food shortages and dietary restrictions.
You may also consider having a local restaurant cater the event. Some restaurants will offer party-sized portions for you to pick up and serve while others may offer complete catering services. Pick an option that works to both feed your guests and limit your stress.
DIY Decorations Might Be Better Than Store-Bought
While store-bought decorations are a quick way to make your home look festive, DIY crafts can help you achieve a unique and memorable look for your home. Handmade décor can also be an excellent talking point as your guests compliment your creations and ask how to make something similar for their homes.
Furthermore, you may be able to craft eco-friendly alternatives to the typical plastic décor available in stores. If you have the time, making your own decorations is sure you help make your party a hit.
Entertainment Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated
A common mistake many party hosts make is assuming their guests will entertain themselves with talk and food. For smaller parties, this may be the case. However, larger parties typically need a little help. Party games are always an easy way to go, but if you want a more specialized option, you might consider a secret Santa event or ugly sweater contest.
A small gift exchange is a great way to keep the party exciting without breaking the bank or going overboard while an ugly sweater competition will keep things lighthearted and fun. You may not need to hire an entertainer for your party, but you should have some entertainment options planned for your guests.
Hosting a party your guests won’t soon forget is a less-stressful undertaking if you’re well prepared. From crafting your own décor to holding an ugly sweater contest, there are plenty of ways you can make your party more exciting. Whether you decide to keep things small or go all out, hosting the party of the year doesn’t have to stress you to the max. So sit down, map out your ideas, and get started on a celebration you and your guests will remember for years to come.
Image via Pixabay by platinumportfolio
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