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Christmas: Are You Prepared to Party?

Wednesday, 27 November 2024 08:00

By Sara Whatley

Planning the perfect Christmas party is all about being prepared, says Sara Whatley. Have fun!

It’s that time of year when our social calendars begin to fizz and our wardrobes sparkle in anticipation of the festive frolics that await us over the coming weeks. Let’s talk about Christmas parties!   

Christmas and parties go together like cheese and wine (which also makes a good party), but the key to making the season run smoothly is preparation. ‘By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail,’ said Benjamin Franklin; now let’s heed his wise words.

Firstly, think who the party is for. Are you organising the work Christmas party? A shindig for friends? Or perhaps a festive celebration with family? Thinking about the group and deciding what will work can make or break a party. A low-key lunch might fit the bill perfectly, giving people the opportunity to chat and laugh together in a relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, it might be a group that needs some social encouragement – an activity to get everyone working together, chatting and bonding. Ending up at a bar or themed restaurant is a great way to finish an event like this.

Perhaps entertainment is just the ticket for your party. experience like a live show or concert is great fun and very low pressure too – no small talk needed! Another thing to consider when planning a Christmas party is the ages and abilities of all the guests. Make sure your activity or venue is suitable for all to make sure no one feels left out and everyone has the best time possible.

Getting in early is key to being prepared. Many restaurants and venues get booked up months in advance, so if you have your heart set on a certain place then pick up the phone and get your place secured. Today! If you are the designated party planner it might be appropriate for you to organise travel arrangements too. Moving a large group of people around can be entertaining on a bus or coach, or helping people connect for lift shares is another good way of keeping the party together.

Christmas time is also a wonderful opportunity to host a party at home. Whether with a few near and dear, or you want to deck the halls, make it one to remember! Again, being prepared is key to being an unflustered host and actually enjoying the party yourself.

Get as much organised before as you possibly can. If that means decorating your house earlier than you normally would, well simply embrace the festive season for longer. Liberally string twinkling fairy lights around your home to create a warm and gentle ambiance, stock up on seasonal scented candles and make sure your log shed is full to create the ultimate cosy atmosphere.

Make playlists to see you though the party, or have a selection of CDs or records on hand to keep the music flowing. In terms of food and drink, try to opt for things that can be made and frozen beforehand, or are easy to assemble on the day. You don’t want to be flapping in the kitchen when your guests start to arrive.

A big vat of mulled wine or cider (prepared in advance) is a perfect way to keep the drinks menu simple, and sometimes simplicity can be more effective than too much choice.

Having a few games to hand is a great way to keep the festivities in full flow. Dig out a selection of interactive group games, or how about making your very own personalised quiz? It could be based on the people you are with, or perhaps the area in which you live. Just make sure it is age appropriate!

Lastly, Christmas is all about spending quality time together and getting into the festive spirit (shaken, not stirred), so whatever party you are going to or organising simply make sure there are lovely people, food and drink, fun and music, and you are all guaranteed to have a smashing time.

 

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