SEND INVITES ASAP
With only so many days to celebrate the holidays, calendars fill up fast. Don’t wait too long to set your date and send invitations. Try using an online invitation service to easily manage your guest list and save on postage.
BRING THE CHEER
You don’t need to buy all new holiday décor to deck the halls. Use what you already have, but keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Try hanging a garland on an empty wall or filling glass vases with vintage ornaments for a festive touch.
COOK, CATER AND DELEGATE
Pick a few no-fail dishes that you can make ahead of time, and enlist a few guests to bring a menu item or two. Consider catering some food as well, especially more time- consuming dishes — just don’t forget to place your order well in advance.
DON'T ATTEMPT IT ALL BY YOURSELF
Whether it’s helping to make food, coming over early to set up or staying to wash the dishes, accept the help of friends and family. To really reduce the stress of hosting, consider hiring a cleaning service to help you prepare your house for the big party.
MAKE THE PARTY FLOW
If you put all your food and drinks in one place, you’ll find all your guests in the same place too. Set appetizers out in different areas to keep guests moving around. Put drinks in easy-to-access spots and separate alcoholic from non-alcoholic beverages. Move furniture against the walls or into another room if it takes up more space than it provides.
DON'T OVERLOOK THE DETAILS
From multiple trash cans in easy-to-find spots, foods for various diets, the Wi-Fi password visibly on display and a fun soundtrack keeping spirits bright, it’s normally the small details that make the biggest difference.
