Tis the Season for Festive Holiday Parties

Throwing a memorable holiday bash is a great way to celebrate friends and family and jump–start the holiday season. But with gifts to buy, decorations to be hung and plenty of other work to do, actually planning the party can seem a bit overwhelming.

Party planner extraordinaire Jen Delaye, President and Owner of JDK Catering, says that you can avoid the holiday “bah humbugs,” though, by planning ahead and staying organized. Here are her tips for throwing a successful holiday party.

  1. Set a date early Try to set a date 6–8 months in advance by talking with potential guests and checking the calendar to make sure your party doesn’t coincide with any other important happenings. Once you’ve set a date, you’ll be able to get to work on invitations and other party plans.
  2. Make a plan What’s the budget you can afford for your holiday shindig? Do you want the event catered? Is your heart set on a certain band or location? Do you have a theme in mind for your party? Are you and your guests exchanging gifts? Once you’ve determined details like these, you’ll have a huge obstacle completed, and be ready to move forward with your party planning.
  3. Select vendors early The holiday season is a popular time for parties and get–togethers for everyone — chances are you and your guests will have at least three parties to attend! That’s why selecting vendors for your party (i.e. Santa Claus, caterers, bands, etc.) early is ultra important – you want to make sure they’re not booked for someone else’s festivities!
  4. Send invites early Although you’ve already penciled in a date with potential guests, you’ll need to send invites 3–4 months in advance of your party so guests don’t make other commitments. Ask guests to RSVP so you have an accurate idea of how much food, eggnog, and space you’ll need for your party.
  5. Be prepared for guests to stay over Or, have a taxi service on alert to drive guests home. The last thing you want for your holiday party is for someone that’s enjoyed too much eggnog to drive home.

“Be prepared for guests to stay over or, have a taxi drive guests home. The last thing you want for your holiday party is someone who's enjoyed too much eggnog driving home.”

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