How to Plan a Holiday Party
Parties are a great way to bring family and friends together during the festive holiday season. But, hosting a party during the busiest time of year can seem like an overwhelming task. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect holiday party:
Create a Budget
Before you start planning your holiday party it is important to determine a budget. Knowing how much you have to spend upfront will help you make smart decisions on what kind of food, decorations and activities you can include.
Set a Date & Time
Decide when you want your party to take place and how long it should last. Since it is the holiday season, you may want to set a date and time within the next few weeks of December. Figure out what times and days work best for both yourself and your guests.
Choose a Venue
Think about where you want to host your party. If you want to host a larger gathering, consider renting out a venue or having the party at someone else’s house. If hosting at home is an option, consider the size of your home and the amount of guests that might be attending.
Choose a Theme
Next, choose a theme for your holiday party. This will help bring together the decorations, activities and food. Popular holiday themes include winter wonderland, Christmas tree farm, candy cane lane and much more.
Send out Invites
Now that you have the details of your holiday party planned it is time to start inviting friends and family. Use online invites or create your own at home. Make sure to include the date, time, location and theme of your party on the invitation.
Decorate the Space
Decorations are an important element for any holiday party. Select decorations that reflect the theme you chose. Items such as twinkling lights, festive wreaths, streamers, ornaments and centerpieces are great for setting a holiday mood.
Prepare the Food & Drinks
If you are having a formal holiday party the food will require more preparation. Create a menu that reflects your budget and the theme. If you are having a more casual party, consider foods such as chips and dip, sliders, sandwiches and mini desserts.
Plan Party Activities
Activities are great for keeping guests entertained and can range from games like charades and trivia, to more festive activities such as cookie decorating and hot cocoa and cider tasting.
Cleanup & Wrap Up
Once the party is winding down, it is a good idea to ask guests to help you with the cleanup. Cleaning and breaking down decorations will go a lot faster with the help of your friends and family.
Conclusion
Planning a holiday party can seem like a daunting task, however with the right planning and preparation, your party is sure to be a success. Remember to create a budget, decide on a date and time, select a venue and theme, send out invites, decorate the space, plan food and drinks, as well as activities and cleanup. With these tips you can plan the perfect holiday party for your family and friends!