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Hosting a Christmas Party: Buying Guide

Planning on throwing a holiday party  this winter?   Well, Christmas  is fast approaching.  Don't panic.  Instead get your creative  juices flowing and start your planning process  now.  By the time late December  comes around, you will be all set and ready to host  like a pro.

What's the Theme?

Will you be holding a "Christmas party"  or the all-inclusive "holiday"  bash?   This is the most important question to tackle first.  After choosing a theme, you can then start to decorate  and plan your menu  around it. 

  • If the gathering is held at the workplace or in a school, perhaps it is more tasteful to include everyone's celebratory interests. 
  • Think about a multicultural theme  or a neutral winter theme.   With these, no one will feel left out.
  •  If the party  is taking place in your home, you will have little restriction and the freedom to do what you please.          

Invitations

Once you have your holiday theme  under way, think about coordinating invitations  for your party.  

Send them out at least three weeks ahead of time - this allows your guests time to slot your party into their busy holiday schedule.   Don't forget to include the RSVP  date!  You will want to know how many guests  to expect.  

Fun 

Formal 

Festive 

Winter Holiday 

Photo 

Plan the Menu

Understand what type of food preparation  will be necessary and how much time it will require from you.  Know your limitations, and decide early on whether you will be doing the cooking  yourself or if you will hire a caterer.   (Keep in mind that catering  companies are booked quickly for the holidays, so they may not have you available date.)  

Choose a menu theme.   This will eliminate holiday stress  for you and keep your party organised.  No matter what you choose, be sure to have an array of holiday drinks  available for your guests, as well as finger foods  or cheeses  to pick at.      

Menu Themes

Christmas Brunch 

Cocktail Party 

Traditional Christmas Dinner 

Dessert Party 

Holiday Appetizers 

Set Up

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At Home

If you are having your party at home, spend the week before the party preparing the house. 

  • Decorate the rooms with holiday  flair.  You want every room  to be cosy, warm, and comfortable, yet reflecting your personal style. 
Out and About

Though you may not have time to set up your space long before the party, have your party preparations  ready.

  • Decorate  the space according to your theme. 



Related Guides

Indoor Christmas Decorations

Vegetarian Christmas

Traditional Christmas Dinner

Holiday Safety

Winter Decorating
 

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