7 Tips for the Aspiring Savvy Holiday Party Host
Written By Savvy Auntie Staff Writers
By Patricia Rossi, patriciarossi.com
Patricia Rossi is a Business Etiquette coach, author, consultant, public speaker, columnist, television, and radio personality. She is twitters #1 Etiquette Professional worldwide. Patricia's motto is: “Kindness not formality. Relationships not rules.” For Business and Social Success Solutions, go to http://PatriciaRossi.com.
It’s that most wonderful time of the year that offers opportunities to entertain the people you love and enjoy socializing with. Following are some helpful hints that are sure to make you a great host this holiday season:
1. Plan ahead.
People are busy during the holidays, so if you want to make sure your party date is on their social calendar…get those invitations out early, approximately four weeks in advance. Make sure that your event won’t conflict with student schedules, so that your nieces and nephews will be able to join in on the fun as well. If you are using a caterer, call them 6 months before the date of your event. They book up early during the holidays.
2. Create a holiday playlist.
Holiday music has a way of putting people in a festive frame of mind. Put together a playlist of everybody’s favorites, and then enjoy it yourself as you continue with your party planning. Have the kids help you out with the selections!
3. Decorate early.
Minimize stress by getting your decorations up well in advance of the party. This is something you can check off your to do list and enjoy the splendor while you continue with the party preparations. You can invite your nieces and nephews over to lend you a hand with holiday decorating.
4. Prepare food and drink.
When deciding what foods to serve, be creative and offer something out of the ordinary, as well as some old reliable choices. This will offer an element of excitement to the adventurous, while still catering to the conventional type. Consider making a kid menu for those picky eaters. Offer a variety of drink options, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure you plan for a couple of extra guests who may show up unexpectedly.
5. Clear the walkway on party day.
Be certain the entrance to your holiday affair is well lit and free of snow, ice, or any other obstacle that may be a hazard to your guests. You wouldn’t want the local paramedics to be the unexpected guests at your party.
6. Relax and enjoy.
After all your planning and hard work, be sure to enjoy your own holiday celebration. Make sure you have a relative or friend available to help you when guests begin to arrive. If they feel up to the task, you can even have the kids greet each guest with a smile, give happy holiday wishes, and introduce them to others. Encourage mingling amongst your guests.
7. Give farewells.
As your party winds down and guests begin to depart, be sure to walk them to the door and thank them for coming. In addition, make sure each guest is capable of making it home safely. If you have any doubt, arrange for a ride or call a cab.
Photo: CHOReograPH
Originally published: December 4, 2012
Updated and republished: November 27, 2017