December 11, 2024
Written By: Kelsey Perala
Hosting any event can be time consuming and if you're like us, it can be a tad hectic! Planning everything in advance is key to hosting these events. From the guest list, the decorations/theme, to food and activities, it's important to nail down all of the details to take stress off of you.
Guest List
Do you have a certain mood you're going for? Some parties are more relaxed than others so this is something to consider when you're planning who to invite. If you're wanting it to be a relaxing evening, inviting your great uncle twice removed that is super loud might not be the best idea. If you're wanting it more bubbly and fun, that might be the right atmosphere for that kind of attendee. It matters what party type you are aiming for because that will influence the guest list heavily.
Food and Drinks
Catering isn't always an option, but it is amazing and takes a lot of stress off of the host of the party. However, most people opt to cook or do a potluck style party. Yes, cooking does take more time because you have to shop, prepare, cook or bake the items, and then the clean up really sucks. I always recommend skipping the hassle of store and do a pick up order off the list of items you need so you're not fighting for the last potato chip on isle 12. Clean as you bake/cook so your work area is clean and so it's easy to pick up after you're done. You could always just do a sign up sheet so you know what everyone is bringing and what items are still needed.
Drinkwise, you need to decide if this party is going to have alcohol or not. A classy event, maybe grab some wines, whisky, or have a signature drink. If you're wanting to get rowdy, you might need something stronger than those drinks. If you're not wanting to pay for drinks, tell them it's BYOB and whoever wants to can or you could opt for no alcohol at all. I would have water, tea, and everyday drinks available for those who aren't having alcohol.
Decorations
This part really needs to be preplanned because I doubt you want to run out to Party City or risk an Amazon order not getting to you on time. If it's just a solid Christmas party, I'm sure your yearly decorations will do the trick. However, if you're doing a theme, consider buying all the items for that theme as soon as you pick it out so you can put everything together in advance to save you the headache.
Activities
There are SO many Christmas games and things you can implement at your party. If the guests have to buy something though, tell them in advance or put it on the invitation/Facebook page for the event. See below for some ideas:
Photo Booth
Gift Wrapping Contest
Exchange Gifts
Murder Mystery
Bingo
Trivia
Cards Against Humanity
White Elephant/Dirty Santa
Pin the Nose on Rudolph
Gingerbread House Competition
Ugly Sweater Competition
Guess the Christmas Smell
Scavenger Hunt
Limbo Competition
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