Professionals offer stress-free tips for entertaining guests and family at home.
Even though entertaining loved ones requires a lot of work, it is feasible to throw a simple Christmas party without feeling overwhelmed or out of control—two things that aren't appropriate for the festive season. To avoid feeling exhausted on the big day, Mindy Weiss, a celebrity event planner based in Los Angeles and New York City, advises giving yourself ample time before the celebration to iron out as many things as you can.

Forward Invitations in Advance

Although Halloween may be over before you begin to think about the holidays, your friends and family's seasonal calendars will quickly fill up, particularly on the few Saturday nights in December, according to event producer Allison Pieter of Los Angeles. "Inviting them with advance notice ensures the guests you want there are available," she adds. Pieter advises sending invitations online because it's more cost-effective, quicker, and simpler than sending them by mail.

Select a Theme and Adhere to It

According to Kristine Cooke, owner, event planner, and designer of Simply Charming Socials, picking one design element to lead the others can create cohesion throughout your event, whether it's a color scheme, a seasonal fruit, or even a Christmas song.

"For example, if cranberry is your common thread, choose floating cranberries and candles on your tablescape, a cranberry spritzer cocktail upon guest arrival, and a goat cheese and cranberry tartlet for dessert," she explains. "Nothing has to be too matchy-matchy, but if you have two or three nods to your theme, it will look so thoughtful to your guests."

Make Use of the Items You Already Have

Examine what you may already have in your pantry, cupboards, and storage areas before spending hundreds on groceries and party materials. "Whether it's the fancy plates you received from your wedding or the stack of holiday cards on the table, make it easier on yourself and use what you have on hand for décor," Weiss advises. Don't go crazy if you do need to buy fresh décor. Weiss advises making the most of bare wall space by hanging garlands on detachable clips.

When purchasing food and drinks, always err on the side of excess

Running out of food or beverages in the middle of entertaining is the last thing you want to worry about because it will leave your guests dehydrated and hungry. Even though you might end up with an enormous amount of leftovers, Weiss advises giving leftover food to the closest shelter or sending your guests home in take-out boxes (that's certainly one way to give back this season).

By Drive Mad 2