This Christmas, create a memorable holiday party for your guests by putting some personal touches on the arrangements. As soon as you're ready to plan the party, take a few moments to sit down and organize the details so you don't end up getting a big Christmas party headache.
The Basics
Your Christmas party checklist should start with four W's and an H: Where will you have the party? When will it be held? Who will be invited? What will the theme be? And, very importantly, how big is your budget? Having a small budget doesn't mean you have to hold a small and boring party and having a large budget doesn't guarantee that your party will be a roaring success. It's all about how you allot your funding and how creative you are. You should have a very specific party budget so that you don't end up spending too much money on something that may not even be necessary. Do your planning a month ahead and send your invitations at least three weeks in advance.
Invitations
Depending on your budget, you may choose to design elaborate, glittery, theme-specific Christmas party invitations or you may invite people by asking them in person or by sending an e-mail invitation. Either way, let your potential guests know when it is being held, where it is being held, how long it will last, what type of party it is--formal or casual--and RSVP information. You may want the party to be family-friendly, adults only, or a couples-only occasion. Also, let your guests know if they should bring any items such as food or Christmas exchange gifts.
Food and Drinks
If you have a large budget, you might want to hold a catered event. On a small budget, consider a potluck or bring-your-own-bottle party. Either way, the host should provide these essentials: places to sit, tableware, water, warm beverages like hot cocoa, coffee, tea, cider and finger foods such as gingerbread cookies and a vegetable platter.
The Décor
Plan how you will decorate--and that can include what your guests wear. You may choose to emphasize the religious aspects of the holiday with a prominent nativity scene. You may want to have some fun with a theme such as "ugly Christmas sweater," and ask your guests to come dressed in tacky, garish holiday sweaters. Set a festive mood with strings of lights inside and out, a wreath on the door, stockings on the fireplace and a decorated holiday tree.
The Entertainment
Guests may or may not entertain themselves with drinks and chatter, so always plan some entertainment. Games such as the White Elephant Gift Exchange are fun because everyone brings a gift and everyone will end up with a different gift by the end of the party. You could plan to open up an area for dancing and play DJ --or hire one. Or get some instrument-playing friends together and accompany your guests in singing Christmas carols. The final touch may be surprising everyone with a visit from "Santa Claus."
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