Happy Holidays!
If you’re planning on hosting a holiday party this year, you’ve come to the right place. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re just looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered!
Our Beginners’ Guide to Holiday Hosting is your one-stop resource for planning an unforgettable Christmas gathering. From selecting the perfect menu to adding festive touches to your décor, this guide offers plenty of tips and tricks to help you pull off the ultimate Christmas dinner.
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Party Planning Checklist
Holiday parties come in all shapes and sizes, from intimate family dinners to lively celebrations with friends. As you start planning your Christmas gathering, take a moment to think about the details that will make your party unique. Consider the following key elements to help guide your decisions and ensure a straightforward and stress-free event.
1. Timing
Choosing the right time of day for your Christmas party is an important first step in your planning process. Some people love the cozy charm of a Christmas Brunch, while others prefer a more traditional dinnertime celebration. Your choice will set the tone for your menu, décor, and overall vibe, so consider what works best for you and your guests as you start to bring your holiday vision to life.
2. Dining Style
Deciding on the dining style for your holiday party is a key part of the planning process. Will your meal be a fancy, formal affair, or a relaxed, casual gathering? Further down, we’ll provide menu ideas to suit a variety of options.
Tip: Be sure to check out our Table Etiquette blog for tips on how to set both a formal and informal table—it’s a great resource to help you create the perfect setting for your celebration.
3. Guest List
Your guest list is the foundation of your holiday party—after all, the season is all about bringing people together! Start by determining who you’d like to invite, whether it’s just close family, a mix of friends and relatives, or a larger crowd.
Invitations can be as simple as a group text to your extended family or as formal as mailed cards with RSVP requests. Whichever option you choose, make sure to include key details like the date, time (brunch or dinner), and the level of formality or attire expected. Clear communication upfront ensures everyone is on the same page and ready to celebrate!
4. Décor
Decorations are a wonderful way to set the mood and make your holiday party feel extra special. Your décor can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like—think rustic and cozy for a casual brunch or elegant and refined for a formal dinner. Here are some ideas to inspire your Christmas décor:
Twinkling Lights: Use string lights to add a warm, festive glow to your space.
Garlands and Greenery: Incorporate wreaths, garlands, or table runners made of evergreen for a classic holiday look.
Seasonal Centerpieces: Create a beautiful focal point with candles, ornaments, or poinsettias.
Place Settings: Add festive touches like holiday-themed napkins, plates, or name cards to your table.
These ideas can help you create a holiday atmosphere that feels just right for your celebration, whether it’s simple or extravagant!
5. Activities
Adding activities or entertainment to your holiday party can make it even more memorable and fun for your guests. Here are some festive ideas to consider:
Sing Christmas Carols: Gather everyone for some traditional caroling around the piano or in the neighborhood.
Gift Exchange: Host a Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange for added excitement.
Tour the Christmas Lights: Take a group walk or drive through the neighborhood to admire the decorations.
Christmas Story or Scripture Reading: Create a heartwarming moment by sharing a favorite Christmas tale or a meaningful Bible passage.
Watch a Christmas Movie: End the evening with a beloved holiday classic everyone can enjoy.
Play Holiday Games: Organize festive games like Christmas trivia, charades, or a holiday-themed scavenger hunt to keep everyone entertained.
Choose one or more of these activities to fit your party’s style and bring everyone together in the holiday spirit!
6. Food
When planning food for your holiday party, it’s important to consider portion sizes to ensure everyone has plenty to enjoy without creating too much waste. Here are some general guidelines to help you estimate quantities based on your guest count:
Main Dishes:
Ham (boneless): Plan for 1/3 to ½ pound per person (e.g., 12 people = 4-6 pounds).
Ham (bone-in): Plan for ¾ to 1 pound per person (e.g., 12 people = 9-12 pounds).
Turkey (bone-in): Plan for 1 to 1 ½ pounds per person (e.g., 12 people = 12-18 pounds).
Pork Roast: Plan for ½ to ¾ pound (8-12 oz.) per person (e.g., 12 people = 6-9 pounds).
Appetizers:
Plan for about 6 servings per person (e.g., 12 people = 72 servings).
Side Dishes:
For 6 people: Plan for 3 sides (1 starch, 1 salad, 1 vegetable).
For 12 people: Plan for about 5 sides.
Desserts:
Plan for 1 to 1 ½ slices of pie or cake per person (e.g., 12 people = 12-18 slices).
Rolls:
Plan for 1-2 rolls per person.
These guidelines will help you prepare a balanced meal with enough variety and plenty for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to incorporate Martin’s Famous Potato Rolls and Bread into your spread—they’re perfect for any holiday menu! (Scroll down to find out how!)
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Read the full post at: https://potatorolls.com/blog/beginners-guide-to-holiday-hosting/
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