Planning a party is a challenge, especially when you add in all of the stress of the holiday season. If you're planning a party, shop smart so you can get everything you need without running out for last minute items. Creating an organized shopping list can help lessen your holiday party planning stress and ensure your gathering is a hit. One of the best ways to do this is to break your needs up by category. You can then further break them down by store if you like.
Food
Determine what foods you will be serving at your party. List ingredients for appetizers, snacks and the main course. Consider if anyone at your party will have any special dietary needs and try to accommodate them. Decide if you will be serving holiday themed candies or other treats and add that to the list. Also, list anything you'll need if you plan on doing holiday baking.
Drink
Make a list of all the drinks you'll be serving at your party. This could be anything from soda to punch to wine. If you're making eggnog, add those ingredients to the list as well. Depending on that kind of party you're having, you might also need alcohol. List the kinds of cocktails you plan on serving and all of their ingredients. Include mixers, chasers and decorations like candy canes or drink umbrellas. Don't forget the ice.
Favors
Determine if you will be proving favors or small gifts for your guests. List the items or the supplies you need to make them. If you will be baking gifts for your friends, add containers, ribbon and other extras. If you will be playing games with prizes, include them on the shopping list. Use this section for odds and ends, like tape, as well.
Tableware
This section of your party shopping list involves the items you need to create your Christmas party table. Dishes, containers, serving spoons, cups, utensils, centerpieces and other decorations need purchased. Don't forget table linens, napkins and items like straws and toothpicks, if you need them.
Other Decorations
The final section of your Christmas party shopping list is for decorations. If your house is already decorated, you can skip this section. If you want decorations specific to your party, this is the place you'll list these items. Decorations can be anything from garland to ornaments to doilies for under your candy dishes.
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