Image Courtesy of Celebrate Magazine
Dear Diane,
This year brought many milestones for my husband and me, including our spring wedding and purchasing our first home together. I would love to host a small holiday gathering with the ladies in both of our families but need a few ideas before formalizing the plans. I’m hoping for a cozy and casual tone, and it would be great if there were something we could work on during the party. Also, I’m not ready to prepare a feast, but don’t necessarily want to organize a potluck either. How should I handle the menu? Thanks in advance for your suggestions!
– Elsie J.
Dear Elsie,
A holiday party sounds like a delightful way to wrap up such a memorable year. I love the thought of starting a cheerful tradition and know your new home will provide a welcoming ambiance for the event. As far as an activity everyone can work on, there are so many merry possibilities!
Ornament Decorating. Whether guests fill their clear ornaments with snow (Epsom salt), alcohol ink splatters or glitter, they can further customize their creations with paint pens or metallic sharpies.
Cookie Swap. Bon Appétit has a wonderful article with lots of tips. Guests arrive with their baked treats, and then the decorating and frosting gets underway! Best of all, everyone has a yummy spread to take home afterward.
Shoebox Party. There are countless charitable organizations that help to provide children in need with daily essentials and special treats during the holiday season. Perhaps you are familiar with “Operation Christmas Child” from Samaritan’s Purse. Do some research and coordinate a list of items before the party, such as toys, school supplies and hygiene items. At the party, lay out cards that can be personalized and tucked into the boxes before dropping them off at one of the designated locations in your area. Turn on the holiday music and spread a little joy to the less fortunate!
As for the menu, select a time of day that doesn’t center around a traditional mealtime. Do what works best for you and communicate with guests beforehand. As always, Celebrate Magazine has endless inspiration and many wonderful recipes to get started. Perhaps you’ll serve light hors d’oeuvres and holiday punch, or an assortment of coffee and sweets.
Happy holidays,
Diane