The holiday season is the perfect time to gather friends, family, or coworkers for a festive celebration. Because we know planning a flawless holiday party can be daunting, we’ve put together a checklist to guide you through the process - from choosing a theme to selecting the perfect holiday party menu. Follow these tips and tricks to make sure your event is memorable and stress-free!
1. Set the Date Early
The holiday season is a busy time for everyone. Send out “Save the Date” notices early to ensure your guests can plan ahead. Digital invites work well for most parties, but for a smaller, more intimate gathering, consider mailing out festive cards for a personal touch.
Tip: Use platforms like Paperless Post or Evite to send stylish e-invites and track RSVPs easily.
2. Decide on a Theme
A well-chosen theme will guide everything from decorations to food and entertainment. Whether you’re going for a classic winter wonderland, a cozy cabin retreat, or a glamorous cocktail party, having a cohesive theme will elevate the event’s atmosphere and help in making decisions.
Tip: Incorporate your theme into every detail, from themed drinks (think seasonal scratch sodas or cranberry cocktails) to party favors and attire suggestions.
3. Plan the Menu
When it comes to food, variety is key. Offer a blend of crowd-pleasing classics and seasonal favorites, making sure to accommodate any dietary restrictions. Work with a caterer like Founding Farmers Co. Catering & Events who specializes in seasonal catering to ensure the menu fits the time of year.
Holiday Party Menu Ideas:
Appetizers: Mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, and holiday charcuterie boards.
Main Courses: Roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or a vegan butternut squash risotto.
Desserts: Gingerbread cookies, cranberry tarts, or a festive yule log.
Tip: Having a balance between savory and sweet options will satisfy all palates. An experienced caterer can be the key to creating a well-balanced menu that everyone will enjoy.
4. Arrange Beverages
Your bar should cater to all guests, offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. A signature holiday cocktail is always a hit— at Founding Farmers Co. Catering & Events, we love to serve a cozy Maple Bourbon Smash made with our very own Bourbon from Founding Spirits. Also, make sure to have water, soda, and coffee available.
Tip: Consider a hot cocoa station with various toppings like marshmallows, peppermint sticks, and whipped cream for a fun, interactive element. You can also add spirit selections for adult hot chocolate.
5. Decorate Thoughtfully
Your decor should reflect the theme but also feel warm and inviting. Start planning early to ensure availability of seasonal items like wreaths, fairy lights, and table settings.
Tip: Use natural elements such as pinecones, eucalyptus, and candles to create a cozy ambiance without overspending. To be more sustainable with your decor, try thrifting for items to avoid over consumption just for a one-off event.
6. Create a Festive Playlist
Music is essential to setting the mood. Curate a playlist with holiday classics as well as upbeat tunes that will keep guests in the party spirit.
Tip: Ensure the playlist has a balance of instrumental background music and more lively songs for later in the evening. If you really want to go the extra mile, have a moving screensaver, such as a crackling yule log or snow gently falling on your TV to add some festive ambiance.
7. Set Up a Photo Station
Everyone loves capturing memories during holiday events. A photo booth or a designated photo area with festive props can be a fun addition to your party. Guests will appreciate the opportunity to take home snapshots of the night.
Tip: Set up a backdrop with string lights and a themed sign for a budget-friendly DIY photo station.
8. Finalize Your Event Timeline
Create a clear event timeline to ensure everything runs smoothly. Start with a welcome drink, transition into the meal, and then plan when the music will pick up or when games will be played. Stick to this loose structure so that you can enjoy the event without worrying about timing.
Tip: Keep speeches or toasts short and sweet, so you can maximize time for socializing.
9. Prepare for the Unexpected
No matter how much you plan, things can always go slightly off course. Have a backup plan for the weather, extra food in case of unexpected guests, and consider how to accommodate any last-minute changes.
Tip: Rent a tent or heating lamps for outdoor events and have extra chairs or table settings on hand. Working with a professional and experienced caterer and event planner will make party planning a breeze, even in the face of last-minute hiccups.
10. Relax and Enjoy
After all your hard work, don’t forget to enjoy your party! Great planning and preparation allow you to take the time to mingle with your guests, eat some of the delicious food you’ve arranged, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
By following a party checklist, you’ll feel prepared to cover all the important aspects of planning a successful holiday event - from creating the perfect holiday party menu to choosing the right decorations. When possible, we recommend working with experienced professionals to ensure the event is a hit and so that you can enjoy the festivities and not be tied up in the details. For help with event planning, catering, décor, and more, reach out to our experienced event planners to take your holiday party to the next level.