The most magical time of the year is upon us and you’ve volunteered to throw a holiday party. Regardless if it is for family, friends, work, or a little hodge-podge of everyone, the secrets to hosting a stress-free holiday party remain the same. Follow these tips to ensure your moody stays merry and bright during the planning process!

1. Relax

Yes, this is step one. You offered to plan for a reason and that is because you know you’ve got this! Of course, life will happen and things will need adjusting but it will work out.

2. Make a List

Take a little advice from the big guy in red. Make a list and check it twice (three times!) Then see who you can delegate to. Even though you offered to host, that doesn’t mean there aren’t people willing to help. People appreciate being thought of, especially if what you’re asking them to do is praising one of their talents.

3. Divide and Conquer

Are you hoping to have a homemade cooked meal? The ultimate Christmas dessert station? Figure out those menu items you want and see what can be made ahead of time, if someone can bring it for you, or if there are parts of the meal that can be catered or purchased.

4. Stock up

Snacks and beverages are always going on sale throughout the holiday season. If you’ll be providing these instead of a caterer, get more than you think you’ll need. We don’t mean fill up your guest room with wine, soda, and crackers (although setting aside your favorite beverage never hurts.) This will ensure come party time everyone has more than enough to enjoy.

5. Consider your space

How many people you will host and the atmosphere you’re going for will determine where you’ll host. Mini Social would love to be your holiday party destination if your guest list meets our capacity limit. We’ll help you clean-up, planning elements, and help with all of the above and more. If you choose to host in your home or elsewhere, think about how you want your party to flow. Will there be space for a sit-down meal? Are several dining spaces needed? Will there be an area for opening presents if that’s a part of this event (think kids tearing open boxes) and plan accordingly.

6. Deck the halls

Crank up your favorite holiday music and dig into those boxes of decorations you’ve collected or been gifted over the years. Fill decorative bowls or baskets with extra ornaments and use simple greenery and bows to add just enough holiday cheers inside and outside of your home or throughout the party space.

7. Create your own tradition.

You're the host which means you decide how you will set this holiday party apart from those of the past. Maybe you will give everyone a mini jar of homemade hot cocoa to take home or a personalized ornament. You can have everyone carol together after your meal or do a white elephant gift exchange. Whatever you choose to do remember that your guests will (or should) appreciate the time, effort, and thought you put into planning a time for them to gather and celebrate the season!

7 Tips to Stress-Free Holiday Party Planning