Holiday Party Planning
Tips for a Stress-Free Gathering
The best holiday parties – ones that seem like an effortless affair – are the result of careful planning and preparation. Follow this timeline to make your holiday party flawless from start to finish.
3-4 Weeks Before
Send out invites and create an online event to make sure guests have time to schedule your event in their calendars.
Set the mood with the invite. Include when the party will start and end; when food will be served; and if necessary, suggested attire.
2 Weeks Before
Plan the menu. See the Portion Prep chart to develop a plan for how much food to provide guests.
Keep the flow and timeline in mind when creating the menu. Will guests, for example, be able to sit down and eat with utensils, or will they play holiday games?
Evaluate your space: how you’ll accommodate seating; where people will hang out; and places to store coats, drinks, and items for guests.
1 Week Before
Make a grocery list, and begin shopping for nonperishable foods and refreshments. Ensure you have enough plates, silverware, and glassware.
Purchase extra firewood for the fireplace, if necessary.
3 Days Before
Buy the remaining fresh produce, bread, and other perishable items you’ll need.
The Day Before
Transfer meat to the refrigerator to defrost, if necessary.
Prep recipe components that can be made a day ahead.
Set up dining tables, chairs, and holiday games.
Arrange cozy areas with blankets and pillows. Don’t forget to give your space a festive ambiance with holiday lights.
Hour Before
Set out tablecloths and decorations.
Make appetizers you couldn’t prep in advance.
Minutes Before
Light candles.
Pour welcome drinks and set out appetizers.
Start the music, but keep it low to avoid inhibiting conversation.
Relax and enjoy the evening with loved ones and great food!
Portion Prep
For a gathering of five to ten people, aim to have three to four pounds of meat and three to five cups of warm side dishes. As a general rule, double these quantities for every additional five guests. Reminder! If you are having a multi-course meal, spread out the timeline of the evening to give people time to enjoy everything you've prepared.