Let's Look: Hosting Holiday Parties Edition

 

Hi Friends!  Today I am linking up HERE and joining Erica and Shay for their "Let's Look Linkup".

 

This month we are talking how we host holiday parties- one of my favorite past times!

 

 

I thought I would share some basics with you today!

 

 Here are the steps I take to ensure a successful holiday party:

 

 

Decide On The Theme

 

Years ago I would host a recipe exchange party and it was fun to try different dishes and vote on them.  In recent years, I have switched to a Favorite Things theme and that seems to be an even bigger hit- everyone loves going home with gifts!

 

 

 

 

Create The Guest List

 

I like to keep this rather intimate but need to include all of my VIPs :)

 

 

 

Plan The Menu

 

I used to do apps and desserts and made mostly everything on my own BUT I got smart this year and had the party catered and I got to enjoy much more this way!

 

 

Plan The Decor

 

I always make sure my Christmas Decor is up before the party every year....then we know the holidays are here!

 

 

Favors

 

 This year I gave out little Philosophy Holiday Scented Shower Gels- last year I did chocolates and the year before I did lip glosses with mini chocolate Santas...just a little something to say thank you for coming to my shindig!

 

 

The Ambience

 

You will find that I always have candles burning and the Christmas tunes playing softly in the background...it makes for great ambience and sets the tone for a cozy and fun night!

 

 Those are just a few of my basics :)