So we're in the swing of the holiday season and you want to throw a party, but you haven't planned a thing... so what, throw one anyway!
- Determine how much prep time you have and go from there. Don't do more than you can, no one likes a grouchy, stressed host or hostess! If you only have time for beverages, get all your guests to pick up their favorites on the way to your place!
- Serve one or two easy homemade recipes and punch it up with store-bought stuff. I love doing small bites for holiday parties. All you need are some olives, cheese, crackers, nuts, or maybe some assorted cured/smoked meats and you've got a party! A plan like this can easily be adjusted to accommodate as many or as few people as you would like. No need to worry about someone bringing an unexpected guest.
- Feature one signature cocktail or beverage and design a self-serve bar. This is where a great hot cocoa bar comes into play...candy canes, caramel, sea salt, Heath bits, whipped cream, marshmallows and you are in business! I love mixing eggnog with sprite!
- Create a shopping list before you hit the store. Multiple store trips happen to everyone, but they aren't ideal when you don't have a lot of time to begin with. Make a list and check it twice!
- Enlist a bit of help! Ask a friend to come a bit early, as one who throws lots of gatherings, I am always glad for a friendly face and an extra set of hands!
- Control the lighting. Christmas lights set the perfect ambience for an evening party. The holidays are wonderful because the more twinkle lights, the better!
- Decorate with flowers. During the holidays, I love decorating with mistletoe, pine cones and branches. All which can be found at your local market!
- Ready the restroom. Don't overlook decorating the bathroom with Christmas lights or a holiday scented plug-in! Make sure you have enough hand towels or paper towels for guests. Additionally, make sure extra toilet paper rolls are easy to access.
- Select mood-enhancing music. Holiday music is great, but make sure the music isn't too loud. Shouting over music is obnoxious!
- Be fearless and have fun. The whole point of a party is to have fun, not to cause stress. Whatever happens smile and laugh...it's the holidays!
Happy partying planners and non-planners!
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