With the holiday season quickly approaching, I’ve been reflecting on my experiences hosting holiday parties over the years – both professionally and personally. As the Catering and Events Manager at Summer House Santa Monica, I help our guests plan their gatherings from start to finish, and if you’re like me, the idea of throwing a festive gathering can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. To help you navigate the holiday party planning process with ease, I’ve put together a few tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or a corporate holiday party, I hope these ideas will make your celebration a memorable success!
1. Plan Ahead
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to start planning early. I usually recommend guests hosting at Summer House Santa Monica book at least 3 months in advance. This ensures that you get your desired date and vendors, and you have plenty of time to tackle all the little details without feeling rushed. Create a checklist that includes everything from the guest list and invitations to the menu and decorations.
2. Set a Budget
Holiday parties can quickly become expensive, so setting a budget is crucial. I’ve found that creating a budget helps me prioritize what’s most important and avoid overspending. Allocate funds for food, drinks, decorations, venue, and any additional entertainment. Stick to your budget, but also be flexible if unexpected expenses come up.
Pro tip: If you are hosting a large holiday party, host at a restaurant. This way, staffing, food, basic decor, and alcohol are all built into the cost of the venue.
3. Choose a Theme
A well-chosen theme can tie everything together and make your party stand out. Whether it’s a classic winter wonderland or a cozy cocoa and cookies evening, a theme adds a fun element to the party. For the last holiday party I hosted, we did a “Tinsel & ‘Tinis” theme and dressed up and drank our favorite martinis.
4. Send Out Invitations Early
Once you have your guest list and date set, send out invitations as soon as possible. I’ve used both traditional paper invitations and digital invites, depending on the formality of the event. Sending invitations early gives your guests ample time to RSVP and helps you plan accordingly.
5. Prepare a Delicious Menu
Food is one of the highlights of any holiday party, so plan a menu that’s both delicious and manageable. I like to offer a mix of appetizers, and desserts, along with some vegetarian and gluten-free options. Drinks are equally as important! A delicious batched cocktail will lighten your hosting duties, and elevate any holiday event.
6. Craft a Festive Playlist
Music sets the mood, so curate a playlist that matches your theme and the vibe you want to create. I usually create a mix of classic holiday tunes and modern favorites. For an extra touch, consider hiring a local musician or DJ if your budget allows. Music can make or break the atmosphere, so choose tunes that will keep everyone in the holiday spirit.
7. Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Decorations and ambiance are key to a successful holiday party. At the restaurant, I love to use string lights, candles, and seasonal décor to create a warm and inviting space. Think about your lighting options—soft, ambient light often creates a more intimate setting. And don’t forget to consider seating arrangements to ensure your guests are comfortable.
8. Be a Gracious Host
One of the most important aspects of hosting is making sure your guests feel welcome and appreciated. Greet everyone personally, introduce people who might not know each other, and be attentive to your guests’ needs. A little bit of hospitality goes a long way in ensuring everyone has a great time.
9. Don’t Forget to Enjoy Yourself
Lastly, remember that you’re hosting this party to celebrate and have fun. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but don’t lose sight of the joy of the season. Take time to enjoy the company of your friends and family, and to celebrate your hard work.
10. Let Summer House Handle the Hosting!
Our Parties & Catering team is here to take the hard parts of hosting off your plate so you have more room for fun! We have four private dining set-ups, including our Main Dining Room, Back Four Seasons Room, Banquette Table, and Beach House that are perfect for anything from a large-scale event to an intimate gathering. Our team leads with “Yes” and will work alongside you to ensure your next event is unforgettable. If you are excited to host but don’t want to handle the cooking, Summer House will come to you with our full-service catering! To learn more and start planning with our team, visit Summer House!
That’s it for my holiday party hosting tips! I hope these ideas inspire you to create a memorable event that you and your guests will enjoy. Cheers to a joyous and festive season—happy hosting!
