Holiday Party Tips

December is always the busiest time for everyone and is especially full of many holiday parties. When it comes to hosting a holiday party things can get a little stressful. There are many details that go into prepping for your holiday party from decor to what to serve. This can get overwhelming for many of us and makes hosting a little stressful. However, I am a firm believer throwing a holiday party is so much fun and can be stress-free! Here, I have a few holiday party tips for you that will make throwing your festivities a huge success!

1. Planning ahead. The best way to stay stress free during your holiday party is to plan as much as you can ahead. My number one tip is always start your party with an empty dishwasher, that way it makes for an easy cleanup. Anything you can cook and prep ahead of time is always a must. Make sure to set the table the night before so it is the last thing on your mind the day of the party.

2. Simple and modern decor. I love making the holiday theme not so traditional and more rustic with modern touches. Try green, gold and silver for your color pallet to keep everything neutral but still have a holiday feel. I love these ikat plates from Anthropologie which are perfect for mixing in a modern touch to your table ware. These festive gold and silver trees are a great addition to the centerpiece along with a beautiful flower arrangement {Plum Sage Flowers}. Wrap little boxes in craft paper and tie with ribbon for additional decor that is inexpensive.

3. Light bites and a signature cocktail. Provide holiday inspired light bites for guests to munch on whether it is a cocktail party or dinner party. I suggest two appetizers as well as a cheese board to give a variety to your spread. Head over to The Every Hostess for two recipes – goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates and mini meatballs with a spicy dipping sauce. In addition to this have a signature cocktail for guests to sip on and of course La Crema wine.

4. Have guests contribute. There is nothing wrong with asking guests to contribute to the party — it takes some stress off of you and makes the party more collaborative. A simple request is to ask each guest to bring a bottle of wine or other libation (La Crema perhaps?) or a holiday dish. Dessert is also a great addition for guests to bring that way it is one less thing you have to worry about on your list!

5. The mood. Obviously the goal here is for everyone to have a festive and fun time! Keep your lighting lower to set a little bit of a mood. Play holiday tunes but don’t go overboard with the traditional ones, try adding in some pop versions as well as non-holiday songs to give variety. After dinner games are always a great ice-breaker, Heads-Up and Rummikub are my top favorites! And if you’re feeling extra sassy or giggly, Cards Against Humanity is sure to spark some epic laughter.

Photos by Pure Lee Photography

Flowers by Plum Sage Flowers

Calligraphy by DWC creative

Wrapping paper by Lana’s Shop

Table Ware from Anthropologie