Throwing your own party for the Holiday can be a bit stressful. Okay, maybe a lot. As we are approaching this crazy holiday season, why not switch up the usual and try something exciting and new? Here are some ideas on how to go about planning your fun-filled and unique holiday extravaganza!
Spice Up Your Cocktail List
Pick some different cocktails that you’ve never tried before or usually don’t have rather than the classic ones. Some ideas could be a Pineapple Mint Punch, Tequila Grapefruit Splash, or Winter Sangria. These aren’t the typical drinks your family and friends will be expecting, but it will definitely spark their interests and there’s no doubt they will find one they enjoy or even a new favorite drink!
Switch Up The Tunes
To enlighten the guests with holiday cheer, rather than blaring back-to-back tracks of “Feliz Navidad” and “The Jingle Bell Rock” add in some party tunes to go along with the traditional holiday songs. This will definitely keep the party alive even after all that turkey or ham!
What to Serve
While traditional holiday turkey, mashed potatoes, and casseroles are always something to look forward to over the holidays, add in a few unexpected finger foods for people to try, that will add yet another unique touch to your perfect holiday party! Try some Zesty Chipotle Black Bean Cakes, Goat Cheese Stuffed Apricots, and Sweet Potato Bites to start and finish off the dessert menu with some mini Gingerbread Cupcakes, Strawberry Buttermilk Donuts, or even Pumpkin Espresso Tiramisu!
Décor Galore!
When you walk into a party, the first thing you notice is how the place is decorated. That usually gives people the impression of what is the party is going to be like, and you don’t want to let down your guests. Depending on your style or how you want the party to look, there are two ways to decorate. If you are sticking with trying to make the party different, find some fun and unique decorations for when the guests first walk in. You can also never go wrong with a more classy style either. Elegance is the key. You don’t want your guests to walk in overwhelmed with cheesy decorations everywhere. As they always say, less is more. Find some gorgeous candles that can make a statement on the dinner table, and some classy centerpieces to dress it up. Make the decorations warm and inviting for the guests, because that’s what the holidays are all about right?
All Fun & Games
“Christmas Card Couples” is a fun way to get your guests talking. Before your party, gather up stacks of old Christmas cards and cut each illustrated cover in half until you have as many "halves" as guests. Throw all the halves into a basket, mix them up, and keep the basket at the front door (or near the drinks). As guests arrive, ask each to select one card-half from the basket and find their "other half" during the party. Guests will have a good icebreaker to walk up to various groups and compare Christmas-card scenes. After everyone has arrived, announce that the first three completed cards will get a small prize. This is different and fun for everyone.
