Wow! Thanksgiving is over and December is here! Some of you are in full swing getting ready for the numerous celebrations you’ll be invited to and some will even host a few. So it’s the Host/Hostess that we focus on in this week’s article.
While some preparations are obvious, here’re a few areas that will require your attention to ensure your holiday gathering is filled with merriment and fun.
5 Actions to Avoid when Planning The Perfect Holiday Party
1. Overdoing themes and decorations. Enhance your home with adequate trimmings without overwhelming. Strategically place decorative pieces where they give the best visual effect and lend the proper mood to the area. Make your party the theme; not the adornments. Don’t deck your halls to the point where guests get tinsel-tied each time they take a step. And be sure to arrange some of the decorations above eye level to be enjoyed by all of your guests; not just the first to arrive and the last to leave. Balance your decorations so they are enjoyed by the seated and the standing.
2. Overlooking food preferences. Consider all your guests when planning your menu. Provide an array of food and drink choices for everyone; Dieters, Vegans, Drinkers and Non-drinkers. Search the internet for Cocktails, Mocktails, and a variety of other GREAT RECIPES. And if you’re not sure what kind of substitution to make for one of your guests, check with them beforehand. Chances are they’ll be thrilled that you asked, and will be happy to share their favorite recipe with you and others.
3. Placing food out and forgetting about it. Try to serve food throughout the duration of your party. Especially if cocktails are offered because your guests will need to “feed” their drinks. Instead of setting everything out at once, have various trays brought out in intervals. This way, food stays fresh and your guests stay intrigued over the wonderful surprises that keep coming. They’ll also stay “upright” since you’re constantly giving them something to nibble on as they sip their drinks (if you know what I mean).
4. Cleaning only the public areas of your home. Cleaning only the public areas of your home. Include your personal areas when tidying up your home for your party; even if you plan to entertain in only one room. Don’t leave personal items lying around and clear medicine cabinets of anything you don’t want ‘accidentally eyeballed’ by your guests.
Now, for one of the Biggest Mistakes you can make…
5. Forgetting to enjoy yourself. Give yourself enough prep time to grab a nap or just relax 30-40 minutes before your first guest is due to arrive so you can greet them with a real smile that’s fresh and sincere. Days before your party, arrange for cleanup assistance so it’s not on your mind as you watch dishes stack up. Remember, this party is just as much for you as it is for your guests. So enjoy the fun!
Later, we’ll address holiday party fun as a guest. Don’t miss it!
~~~~~Tell Tammy~~~~~
What festivities are you planning over the holidays?
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