How to Throw the Best Holiday Party
It’s the holiday season again and who doesn’t love a great party? If you are considering hosting your own, the task could be a bit daunting. How to plan, what to serve, how to keep your guests excited and content – are all valid event planning questions. Overwhelmed yet? Let us take some of that stress off your burdened shoulders and give you a few pointers on how to throw the best holiday party this season!
Planning
The first step to a great party is the planning. Without proper planning, your party will not go the way you envisioned it. First rule, find a date that will work for key guests. Key guests are those who know lots of people and will be great in encouraging others to come. If they bring a lot of fun, chances are others will want to be a part of the action.
Secondly, make sure that your venue will be able to appropriately accommodate your guests. If your home will not be large enough, secure a venue that will be able to host all of your attendees. If you opt for somewhere other than your home, take into consideration the different entertainment and services they provide. If they provide tables, chairs, and alcohol, that’s incredibly beneficial to you and your guests. Still stuck? Check out this Westword article on Unexpected Places to Throw Your Holiday Party.
Third, choose a memorable theme. Popular holiday party themes include the Tacky Sweater Party, Black Tie, Great Gatsby, Pancakes & PJs, or Winter Wonderland. Seek out an innovative theme and your party will be a hit as long as it’s executed well.
Lastly, make sure your invitations are beautiful and eye catching. A quality invitation makes a great first impression on your guest. This will also give your participants an idea of what to expect at your party.
Food
Our melting pot of a country has always celebrated great food. Your party should reflect this as well. It has been proven over time that quality food brings people together. If you’ve chosen a specific theme for your party, you will want food that enhances that particular experience. Easy to eat finger foods are the most popular for a mingling event. If you are hosting the party at your home and wish to make your own food, try out some of the many recipes available on Pinterest. If you plan on catering, check out the list of Denver’s top caters on Yelp to find the right fit for you.
Drinks
Planning to provide drinks for your guests? Be sure you have a large variety. Most bar options will allow you to choose between open bar and guest paid, so consider this in your planning budget. A creative and unique option you can pursue as well would be customizing your own wine bottle that guests can bring home at the end of the night. You can find some beautiful options available at WineShop, these will be sure to make a lasting impression on your guests! You could also do a painting and drinking party like Canvas & Cocktails offers. Want to check out a location with great space and a bar for your guests to enjoy? Check out this Holiday Location Guide by Drink Denver.
Decorations
When your guests walk in, you want them to step into an alternate reality. Depending on your theme, your party should be an escape from the mundane and ordinary. Whether that is a jovial Christmas theme or an elegant ball, it should leave them in wonder. There are many DIY ideas available online as well as event planning services. Popular services in the Denver area to assist with your themed decorations would be FlexxProductions and DesignWorks. Feel free to choose what will work best for you and your budget.
Music
What party wouldn’t be a hit without great music? If you’re able to hire a DJ, do so. An upbeat engaging DJ can completely liven up the atmosphere of your party and get people dancing and engaging sooner. Check out this list of Top Denver DJs to review who might be the best fit for your holiday party. If you are unable to hire a DJ, create a playlist specific to the feel and tone of your event.
And Finally…
Above all, make sure you have fun! If your guests see you having a wonderful time, they will strive to do the same. A smile and laugh can go a long way, so be sure you do not allow the stress of hosting take control of you. Get out there and have a blast and make memories you and your guests are sure to remember for a lifetime!
