Planning the company, organization, or family holiday party this year? Relax. A memorable event is within reach. The most successful holiday parties are a feast for the senses: tantalizing aromas, a gorgeous venue in glowing lights, and classic holiday music. Set the right mood, and your guests will feel the holiday spirit the moment they walk in.
Here are our tips and ideas.
Start planning the party now
Start early, ideally in the summer. Early planning gives you time to:
- Create a budget.
- Develop your ideas.
- Make all of your arrangements.
The more time you give yourself, the less stressful the planning will be.
Put a twinkle in your guests' eyes
More houses glow with lights well before Thanksgiving, and we understand why: few things evoke the season like that glow. When you hold a holiday party, lighting is your most effective tool. Try these:
- Soft lighting. Warm and intimate, and a bonus: guests look even better in photos.
- Twinkling string lights in strategic locations.
- Candles as table centerpieces. Keep them out of high-traffic spots like buffet tables where they can get bumped.
- Personal touches. Garlands and winter elements, plus photos of guests or shared memories from the year.
- Extra sparkle. Entertaining expert Julie Blanner told Real Simple magazine that glitter and glam are in: rim cocktail glasses with clear or gold sanding sugar, add a touch of edible gold dust to desserts, or lay it on your tables.
When it comes to food, go for the oohs and aahs
Food is always a powerful way to enhance your guests' experience, and it is the fastest way to make a party linger in memory.
- Serve a signature cocktail with a holiday twist.
- Add a carving station or chef-attended dish people will talk about.
- Keep the menu seasonal: think roasted meats, winter vegetables, and warm desserts.
Music will matter
Music sets the pace of the whole night.
- Plan for dinner: softer, familiar classics while people eat.
- Shift the energy after toasts: upbeat holiday favorites.
- Make requests easy: ask guests to name a favorite song when they RSVP.
- You have the option of bringing in a DJ or a band, depending on the vibe.
Add festive activities
A shared activity turns a party into a memory.
- Ugly sweater contest, judged by applause.
- Ornament exchange or white elephant gift game.
- Additional options include a photo booth with holiday props.
- Cookie decorating for the kids (or the kids at heart).
- Book professional entertainers if you want a comedian, magician, or live act.
A theme pulls it all together
Themes make decorating and menu choices easier. Try a creative theme: options range from classic "Winter Wonderland" to movie marathons, pajama parties, or a giving-focused celebration with a toy drive. Just like theme weddings, theme parties are a great way to delight your guests. (We will leave it up to you whether "Die Hard" counts.)
The bottom line
Planning a holiday party does not have to be complicated. Create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, aim for quality food, and work some merriment into the day. Do that, and your holiday party will be a true crowd-pleaser.
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