Hi friends! Do you hear those jingle bells yet? I do! And that means holiday parties galore! Holiday parties don’t need to be cookie cutter anymore (but feel free to serve cookies) so don’t be afraid to throw a chic bash for your family and friends or just go completely traditional with ugly sweaters and all. Whatever you choose, here are some of my favo...
Hi friends! Do you hear those jingle bells yet? I do! And that means holiday parties galore! Holiday parties don’t need to be cookie cutter anymore (but feel free to serve cookies) so don’t be afraid to throw a chic bash for your family and friends or just go completely traditional with ugly sweaters and all. Whatever you choose, here are some of my favorite tips.
- Keep it warm. And I mean both temperature and ambience. Light a fire in that fireplace, display plenty of candles (scented ones will really set the mood!) or even try string lights, indoor lanterns and sconces to create that illuminating glow. Most importantly your spirit, as the host(ess), should be warm!
- Prep in advance. Chances are you’re hosting the party in your home, so non-perishable décor like lighting, table settings and other ornaments can be set up in the days leading up to the party. Certain finger foods like dips, skewers and baked goods can also be prepared in advance. Be sure to have your outfit picked out well beforehand too!
- Music is key. Keep your audience in mind here. Are they a rowdy bunch or a calmer, relaxed group? Either way, start the night off with some peaceful, but festive holiday music mixed in with some contemporary jazz or other sounds (no one wants to hear Santa Baby 45 times in one night). Then if the atmosphere calls for it, pump it up later on with some more upbeat jams and dance the night away!
- Play with color. If red, white and green simply isn’t your thing you have a ton of options! Go bold with magenta and silver or keep it clean and elegant with creams, whites and golds. If you’re going for a non-traditional holiday color I suggest adding in at least a metallic or sparkle component to keep things festive.
- Don’t have the time or budget to serve a full meal? Have a cocktail party! Serving a full, three-course meal for all your guests is a commitment. If you simply can’t swing it but still want to spread some holiday cheer, opt for a late-evening cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres instead. Fancy it up with some holiday-themed signature drinks or even hire a mixologist to give some drink-making tutorials.
Most of all, try not to stress too much! As long as you’re having a good time, nothing else matters. Enjoy!
xox,
Mindy
Photo by Curtis Dahl Photography
