TOAST THE HOST
Throwing parties for your friends and loved ones can be one of the best parts of the holiday season, find out how to get through this year with some hints that will award you top hosting honours.
Hosting holiday parties can be a stress-filled event, especially if you’re going it alone. As they say, the best defense is a good offense, which in party terms means be organized, prepared…and if all else fails, stocked with wine. Here are a few basics to get you party-ready this holiday season.
Dress to Impress
Beyond picking a date for the special event, the very first thing a good host should do, is decide the mood of the evening. The formality of dress you choose will set the tone for the party, and give your guests an idea of how they should prepare themselves beforehand. Don’t be afraid to be direct and tell your guests exactly what kind of dress you expect from them, it will ease your mind and make their pre-party prepping time much easier.
You are Cordially Invited…
Once you’ve decided on the style of party you will be throwing, it’s time to select the perfect invitations. It’s important to note here that less is most definitely more. Whether you’re throwing a wild bash, or an elegant dinner, a simple card with a fitting design and beautiful penmanship will get your point across without being obnoxious. Browse through your nearest Chapters/Indigo, or other specialty book store for ideas, or if you’re feeling creative make your own.
Menu Please!
Knowing what kind and how much food to serve on the night of a fete, can be difficult to measure, especially if you know a guest is a vegetarian or allergic to something. The easiest way to ensure everybody is happy, and that there is enough to eat, is to go potluck. Ahead of time, figure out what kinds of dishes you’d like to serve, and mock up a little menu to send to your guests, via email is probably the easiest. This way they can all choose something to bring, so you don’t end up with more than one of anything, and you’ll know that your guests will all enjoy at least one item.
Deck the Halls
Arguably, this is the most crucial aspect of your pre-party set up. I am of the camp that a minimalist approach to decorating is always better, and at Christmas time I think this is especially true. A beautiful way to add some fun to a formal soiree, especially if the party is taking place in a large, wide open space, is to blow up a large number of balloons and scatter them on the floor. I would also advise you to stay away from a lot of traditional Christmas decorations, like Santa, in favour of more beautiful and dynamic pieces. Think lovely homemade wreathes, and delicate white twinkle lights. Martha Stewart is a genius in this department, pick up one of her books, and have fun creating.
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