Family eating dinner

Is your house bursting at the seams with friends and family during the holidays? Are you scrambling to make sure you’ve planned for everything, including having enough food and seating for everyone? Relax! You can host a great holiday party in your own home without breaking the bank or going crazy. Here are some tips to help get you started.

Plan ahead to avoid any stress in the weeks leading up to the party

No one wants to be the person who is stressed out and frazzled in the weeks leading up to their big party. But the truth is, unless you plan ahead, that's exactly what can happen. The key to avoiding stress is to start early and take things one step at a time. First, make a list of everything you need to do in order to get ready for the party. Then, put together a timeline of when each task needs to be completed. And finally, start working through your list, crossing items off as you go. By taking these simple steps, you can avoid stress and enjoy the party planning process.

Set a “Holiday Party” budget and stick to it

The holidays are a time for giving, but that doesn't mean you have to go into debt to show your loved ones how much you care. One way to stay within your budget is to set a holiday party budget and stick to it. This means making a list of all the expenses you'll need to cover, from food and drink to decorations and entertainment. Once you have a total amount in mind, start shopping around for deals and looking for ways to cut costs. For example, you might serve a potluck dinner instead of ordering catering, or forego professional entertainment in favor of creating your own holiday playlist from your phone. By being mindful of your spending, you can ensure that your holiday party is enjoyable for everyone - without breaking the bank.

Choose a theme for your party

One of the best parts about throwing a party is getting to be creative with the theme. Whether you go for something fun like "holiday colors" or opt for something more classical like "winter wonderland," the right theme can help to set the tone for your entire event. Not only will it help to guide your decorating decisions, but it can also inspire your food and drink choices. And of course, don't forget about the music! A well-chosen playlist can go a long way towards making your party one to remember. So whatever theme you choose, make sure to have fun with it. After all, that's what parties are all about.

Send invitations at least two weeks in advance, so guests have plenty of time to RSVP

When it comes to hosting a successful holiday event, proper planning is key. One important detail to take care of well in advance is sending out invitations. It is generally best to send invitations at least two weeks before the event, to give guests ample time to RSVP. This allows you to get a more accurate headcount, which can be helpful when it comes to budgeting and making other preparations. In addition, it gives guests time to clear their schedules if necessary. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. For example, if you are inviting someone who is out of town or otherwise unavailable two weeks in advance, it may be necessary to send the invitations sooner. Overall, though, sending invitations early is a good way to ensure that your event goes off without a hitch.

Make sure you have enough seating for everyone

Whenever you're hosting a holiday party, one of the most important things to think about is seating. You want to make sure that everyone has a comfortable place to sit, and that there are enough chairs for everyone. If you don't have enough chairs of your own, never fear! Borrowing chairs from friends or family members is always an option. Just be sure to return the favor next time they need some extra seating. By working together, we can make sure that everyone has a seat at the table.

Serve a variety of snacks and drinks, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options

Snacks and drinks are an essential part of any party, and it is important to offer a variety of options to please all of your guests. While some people prefer to drink alcohol, others may prefer non-alcoholic beverages such as soda or juice. It is also a good idea to offer a variety of snack foods, such as chips, pretzels, and veggie platters. By offering a variety of options, you can be sure that all of your guests will have a great time at your party.

In Conclusion

These tips should help you throw a stress-free holiday party that your guests will love. Remember to set a budget and stick to it, choose a theme, and send invitations well in advance. And most importantly, have fun! The holidays are all about spending time with the people you love, so relax and enjoy yourself.

At Rivermark, we hope you have a wonderful holiday season!