10 tips for holiday parties

(A couple of years ago, we asked local residents for 10 holiday party tips. I  found this information recently and realized it is good information for this year too….so here is a party re-run with tips for holiday parties. There are three good drink recipes too. HFW)

By Helen Ford Wallace

What kind of holiday party do you want to host this year?  Elaborate? Simple? Lots of fabulous food?  Dinner?  Come and Go party? Come and Stay?

If you are having a party for the first time, make lists of everything: interesting mix of guests, delicious food, festive decorations, thoughtful gifts, liquor, wine, creative entertainment, holiday music, photos and everything you need to do. Then check them off.

You set the mood. If you are happy and festive, the guests will be happy and festive.

We asked several partygoers and party planners  to share a few of their ideas on entertaining during the holiday season.

Invitation Designer and Calligrapher Linda Garrett:

Invitations should go out  earlier than usual because there are so many events during the holidays.

And always have party favors (can be inexpensive) since you may not be at the door to tell your guest goodbye. Have a basket filled with cards that thank the guest for their friendship and for taking time to share the season with you.  Put a sign on the basket saying please take one to tie on your tree.

If you don’t like people who ‘hit and run’, let your guests register for a surprise that will be given later in the evening. If you are encouraging ‘hit and run’, add ‘come and go’ to the invitation.

Bridal, Wedding and Party Consultant Judy Lehmbeck:

Keep everything for the party simple. Make sure everything you do can be done ahead of time so when guests arrive you will be able to focus on their comfort. Have all decorating done a day or two before the party. Make sure all serving pieces along with the serving utensil are out and put a sticky note in each container telling what is to go in each one.

Party Caterer Larry Brannon:

For entertaining, cook dishes that you know people would like. Many recipes are passed down generation to generation.  It will make your party a little more personal. Do everything ahead of time as much as possible.

“When you set the table, use name cards with party favors using your holiday theme, Brannon said.

Local philanthropists and superb party cooks Jenny and David Kallenberger:

In planning a menu, try to include a family recipe such as ‘Grandma’s rolls’ as traditions are appreciated.  Think local and seasonal as it hard to beat a homemade chocolate local pecan pie.

“For a dinner party, choose something tried and true ( not a great time to experiment). Entrees that are braised, roasted or baked are helpful when entertaining allowing attention to be turned towards guests instead of the kitchen. Make a complete shopping list. There is no reason to feel limited on choices of cuisine with places like Mediterranean Imports, Super Cao Nguyen, Gulfport, Kamp’s and Buy For Less and Crescent Market.