Holiday Party Tips to Keep it Merry

When it comes to planning a party whether you are a veteran host or a first timer, the holidays can be stressful. Thankfully, local event and wedding planner Kristi Hartig, founder of Glow Weddings and Events in Germantown has some tips to help your occasion run smoothly, and stay merry. 

Tip #1: Keep it simple

If you are looking for some "wow" at your party, Hartig advises that you pick one thing and focus on it while keeping everything else to the minimum.

"If you are going to feature your specialty drink, make it outrageously good looking. That way people walk away with something they remember, but it's still within budget".

Tip #2: Timing is everything!

Set-up always takes longer than you think so make sure you give yourself some wiggle room on the clock and in your wallet.

"I know as far as set-up it always takes a lot longer than anticipated. It's just really important to budget your time and money, and make it go as far as you can".

Tip # 3: When in doubt, move it out!

Remove any furniture that you don't need before your guests arrive. Make sure that you open up whatever space you are using and maximize whatever space you need.

"If you are not having a formal seating arrangement just lay out all of the food on one table so people can just pass by as a buffet and sit wherever they want".

Tip #4: Less is more

People tend to have a lot of decorations out for the holidays, so think about skipping all of the inflatable snowmen and candles, and instead opt for a new kind of ambiance.

"I think sometimes it's better to create the environment more with something like the smell. Cinnamon usually adds to the whole environment".

Tip #5: Say cheers

Specialty cocktails are a big hit during the holidays; make your festive signature one to remember.

"Different kinds of cranberry and vodka drinks, with maybe a cinnamon stick in it, are great for the holidays. Those always tend to be a big hit with guests".

Tips # 6: Say cheers, and save money!

Sometimes your holiday budget can't stretch for those festive drinks, if that's the case offer your guests some spirits that won't hurt your wallet.

"If you are on a budget, box wine is the way to go, and you can usually get those pretty cheap. You can buy a box of red wine and a box of white wine, and that usually does the trick". 

Tip #7: Stick to the classics

When it comes to holiday foliage and fauna stick to the basics, there is a reason they have been around so long.

"Poinsettias are really great for the holidays, and mistletoe. Things like wreathes also make great decorations, just try to keep them simple".

So pick out your favorite dish, boil that cinnamon, and get ready to deck the halls this season with these holiday tips that are sure to make any party a hit!