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The holiday season is here! And for most, it'll be the first holiday party they're hosting in years! But, don't stress- Tina Katsamakis, a party planner and the owner of Perfectly Planned Parties by Tina, shares her checklist to help you get organized and create the perfect stress-free holiday party.
Photo credit: Boxwood Avenue
8 Tips to Help You Host a Stress-Free Holiday Party
Prepare the menu early
When planning a party, remember that thoughtful planning for the food & drinks will make your party a success. But, don't feel the pressure to make all the food. Order your turkey, ham, or roast. Or order your favorite desserts. Be sure to place your orders well in advance and consider food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Pick a theme and a palette for your table
Rustic or glitzy, red, green, silver, or gold- Pinterest is always a good place to find inspiration.
The palette you select will help you choose your table accents like florals, candles and linens to unify your table. And you don't have to break the bank to create a beautiful table setting. Start with what you have and then evaluate what you need- you can rent tablecloths, napkins, and even your dishware and glasses. Order centerpieces, make your own or cut fresh evergreens from your yard and mix them in with candles and your decor.
Photo credit: Maison du Monde
Create a drink station
It is essential to have a designated beverage area separate from the dining area. Set up a table with a festive tablecloth or dress up a bar cart. Include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages along with glassware, an ice bucket, and holiday napkins.
Set your table early
A beautiful table arrangement sets the mood for your holiday party. Set your table a couple of days before your party and add fresh flowers or finishes touches the day of. Use festive ribbons to tie your napkins or kitchen twine with a sprig of fresh evergreen- the little details will make your table special.
Photo credit: Margot Cavin for The Spruce
Select your serving trays, platters and utensils early
A couples of days before the party, pull all your serving pieces and utensils and label them with the corresponding food & beverage items they're intended for. This small step will ease your day-of stress. And don't forget to consider food storage containers and have them ready to go after dinner.
Don't forget the music
Music lightens the atmosphere and puts everyone in a festive mood. Keep it at a nice low to medium volume so that people can socialize and enjoy themselves.
Create a day-of timeline
A timeline will help keep things moving and keep you on track. We all get distracted mingling with guests and preparing the food, so I like to set alarms on my phone for the various intervals.
Ask for help
You're allowed to have fun, so ask for help when you need it! Allow others to help you in the kitchen or delegate someone to tend the bar. Or, if your budget allows, hire kitchen help or a bartender. Remember, your guests are there to see you- not the frazzled version of you- so give yourself some grace and ask for help.
Photo credit: My 100 Year Old Home
If you'd like help planning your next party, contact Tina.
Anyone that knows me knows that I LOVE to plan. I even start planning for Christmas in August! My passion for party planning simply started as helping friends and family members organize and throw parties. With a background in creative marketing, I have always loved using my creativity to design a party with all coordinating decor and food ideas. My greatest joy is taking a client's idea or vision and creating an event that guests will enjoy and always remember.
Tina Katsamakis, Perfectly Planned Parties by Tina
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