You may not have realized but the holiday time clock has already begun ticking. The moment the leaves start to turn and Halloween candy hits the stores — Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Years are practically here (at least when it comes to party planning!).
The question is: how much work are you willing to do for your holiday entertainment?
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a hosting newbie, entertaining for the holidays can be stressful. No matter how much holiday cheer is in the air, it is still the busiest time of the year. With this in mind, we’ve put together a holiday survival guide to help you host a magical holiday event!
Sending Out Invitations
Knowing how many guests you will be entertaining is an important place to start the process. Is it going to be a quaint, cozy evening with a few family members or a mingling mixer for your whole neighborhood?
If your guest list is long, online invitations are a great way to keep track of your guest list. Online invites are quick and handy, allowing people to set reminders, encourage conversation between guests, and keep an accurate headcount.
That said, traditional snail mail invitations allow for a more personal approach. This a nice touch if you’re planning to host a more intimate affair. If you decide to go this route, make sure to keep an accurate guest count as people send in their RSVPs.
Holiday Catering: Full Service + Delivery Planning
Once you have an idea of how many people will be attending your party, you can start planning the best part — the food!
When it comes to holiday planning, you can never be too prepared. If you are opting for full service or delivery there are a few things to keep in mind:
- It’s never too early to get your order in
- There are often peak date charges during the holidays
- Labor can be tight during the holidays so if you’re going full service — make sure to secure your staff early
- Take the time to find a caterer you trust
- Don’t forget to create storage space in your refrigerator and pantry to accommodate your order (and any leftovers)
- Make some time to research fun, festive specialty drinks or cocktails to enhance your party
In general, using a caterer will help you free up time during the busy holiday season. Imagine how much more you’ll be able to get done without having to worry about shopping, cooking, and the dreaded cleanup. You’ll also benefit from the expertise of hiring a good caterer in terms of how they’ll work with you to plan the perfect party.
