I love hosting parties and entertaining. Many of my friends find the concept of hosting a holiday party completely overwhelming. For that reason, I developed this simplified party planning guide a few years ago and shared a copy with my friends.
10 Easy Steps
1. Decide your basic guest list.
2. Decide what the theme of your party will be.
3. Choose an invitation that best expresses the theme of your party. Will it be a trim-a-tree, a cookie exchange, or a holiday meal? Your invitation will be the first glimpse your guest has into your party. The invitation should create an anticipation will sway him to make attendance a priority.
4. Do a complete set of checklists. Be sure that your menu is planned, the grocery list is made, and an action plan for the day of the party is done. Purchase gifts for party favors, gift exchanges and contest winners. Decorate your home, inside and outside.
5. Keep a running list of RSVP’s to your party. This will aid you in purchasing the correct amount of food and drinks.
6. Three days prior to your party- Follow up with any of the invited guests who have not yet RSVP’d. Let them know you are looking forward to their attending and you are just doing a final headcount. Go over your menu again, then double check your cupboard and grocery list.
7. Two days prior to the party- Go to the grocery store. Clean your house.
8. One day prior to the party-Make all food items ahead that will keep overnight. Set up your buffet or dining area. Put slips of paper in serving dishes to make the setup quick when it is time for the party to begin.
9. The day of the party- Take a nice hot shower or long bath. Pamper yourself as you prepare for the party. Congratulate yourself on planning a party that will be remembered by all of your guests.
10. After dressing in an elegant outfit, go and complete the last minute party preparations. When the doorbell rings, invite your guests inside and relax. Enjoy spending quality time with each one.
Originally published 2007, SV Weekly-Maine newspaper, under birth name of MaryEllen Smith
Originally published 2007, SV Weekly-Maine newspaper, under birth name of MaryEllen Smith
