Whether you are hosting a few girlfriends or having a formal dinner party for 12, preparation is the key ingredient when it comes to a successful holiday celebration. In today’s post, I’m breaking down holiday party planning into manageable checklists for your 2022 gathering. You’ll also find a recipe for the signature cocktail I’ll be serving this year, complete with a festive sprig of Rosemary. These are simply suggestions, but I hope they bring a sense of calm into the chaos. Sharing the holiday spirit with those closest to your heart adds merry and magic to the occasion. Keep reading for my best holiday party etiquette reminders for 2022.
One Month Out
- Get the word out – evite, phone call or formal invitation
- Plan your menu
- Make a shopping list
- Check the dates on your spices, baking soda, flour etc.
- Call a caterer or family friend if you will need/want help
Two Weeks Out
- Inventory plates, silver, serving platters and serving pieces
- Check cocktail glasses for chips
- Do a trial run on the signature holiday cocktail
- Order the sweets, casseroles, cheese, etc.
- Take a run to the liquor store and stock up on liqueurs and liquor
- Check your cocktail napkin supply, wine opener
- Locate your ice bucket or buy a new one
One Week Out
- Create a holiday playlist, and enlist your kids to assist
- Clean out the refrigerator and make space for trays
- Set the table
- Order the centerpiece
- Thoroughly clean your guest powder room so next week you can do a quick sweep
- Stock up on supplies, toilet paper, paper towels, hand soap, unscented votives for the table
Day of Party
- Buy ice
- Buy fresh flowers
- Prep veggies
- Finish prep of main food items
- Get dressed, relax and sparkle at your holiday soiree!
My 2022 Holiday Cocktail:
3 cups cranberry juice
2 cups ginger ale
3 cups orange juice
1 cup maraschino cherries with juice
2 ½ cups vodka of your choice
Juice of 1 lemon
Sprig of Rosemary for each glass
Mix everything together except for the Rosemary, put in a pitcher and pour. Enjoy!
If you’re in need of holiday party planning inspiration, type “holiday party” in my blog search bar or browse my holiday etiquette archives. I’ll also include links below to a few festive posts.
For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas.
In search of more holiday party etiquette inspiration? You may also like Holiday Party Attire Primer. See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.
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