Holiday Party Tips

Did you get roped into planning the department Holiday Party again? Or are you just hosting a small get together with friends? Whatever your situation is here are some tips to not only surviving but, having a great party everyone will enjoy!

1. Consider a cookie exchange. This way everyone can bring something they like and get to take something home. It can take the pressure off you for dessert and, can replace the ever stressful gift exchange. Although it does require guests to plan ahead.                                                                                                                
2. Make Chex Mix. If you're at a loss for party snack ideas look no further than the back of your cereal box. There are many variations to Chex mix recipes including muddie buddies and Party mix but my favorite is the original. It's easy and cheap and an almost guaranteed crowd favorite.                                                                                                                                                                 
3. Provide healthy snacks. Offering a selection of fruits or vegetables for an alternative to the Holiday sweets will make your guests on a diet more comfortable.                                                                                                                           
4. Pick a theme. This can be a specific theme like a Nutcracker Christmas or a general theme like sparkles and snow. Either way it can make it easier to plan activities and you're decorating will look more professional.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
5. Make decorations! Buying decorations can be expensive and let's face it most of them aren't that great anyways. My favorite decorations to make are hanging snowflakes. Simply buy clear beading string and pipe cleaners. Cut the pipe cleaners in half and twist them together to make snowflakes. Tie the string around the middle and hang from your ceiling with a tack. You can also replace the snowflakes with another item that goes with your theme such as stars or Christmas trees.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       
6. Give people something to look at. This will spark conversations and make people feel less awkward.  Decorate a lot in each room and if you have them, use singing or moving Christmas decorations.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  
7. Have plenty of places to sit. No one wants to stand up for the whole party so provide enough seating.          
8. Make a gingerbread house. This can be a great activity to plan for your party. People can choose whether or not they want to participate and it's inexpensive and fun! Also a great activity for kids if you have any attending! You could even have a contest at the end!                                                                     
9. Give out cardboard ornaments with the year or company and the theme. Giving personalized ornaments can be a great way to remember the party. You can decorate them yourself with glitter or paint.
10. Let there be music! And dancing! If you have the room play music and encourage people to dance. Everyone loves a good song!

                                                With these tips you're party is guaranteed to be the best of the season! Happy party planning!