‘Tis the season for attending (and hosting!) holiday parties. Today I’m sharing five simple steps to hosting a holiday cocktail party, whether it’s to celebrate Christmas or to toast to the New Year. Cheers!
1.) INVITATIONS: In today’s digital age, it’s nice to receive actual mail once in a while, don’t you think? An invitation’s form, design, and color scheme can really set the tone for a gathering. I love these black, white and gold invitations from Tiny Prints — which I think are perfect for a Christmas party, or a New Years Eve soirée!
2.) DECOR: Besides the Christmas tree and garland, a few extra touches can make my own home feel festive for a party. I always love displaying fresh flowers, specialty barware and cocktail napkins, plus my favorite candles (here and here) when guests visit. Also, a bar cart and serving trays make it easy to move around and about as hostess, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen all evening 🙂
3.) FOOD & DRINK: Unless you’re the next aspiring Ina Garten and cooking is your thing, don’t stress about going over-the-top for a cocktail party. Keep it simple with a few appetizers, like a crudité platter, meats and cheeses, your favorite hot dish, and a dessert (or two). For drinks, stock up on wine and beer for guests, and consider making a signature cocktail as a special touch.
4.) MUSIC: A great music playlist is a must-have for any party, in my book. I love creating collections on Spotify for different occasions, like my Christmas playlist. (I’m partial to the classics!)
5.) ATTIRE: The holidays are the perfect time to wear pretty lace or luxe velvet, plus a little extra sparkle! I’m wearing this white lace dress here, but I also love red, black and metallic pieces this time of year. (Browse additional festive styles below!)
Shop the post: Target Bar Cart || West Elm Gold Tray || Godinger “Gramercy” Decanter || Crate & Barrel “Tino” Decanter || Crate & Barrel Champagne Glasses || Target Gold Scissors || Container Store Straws || Tiny Prints Invitations and Napkins || For Love and Lemons “San Marcos” Dress (also styled here)
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What a beautiful dress and a beautiful celebration! Love the decanter.
I love the black and gold accents you have from your cards to the napkins – so cute!! xo, Biana – BlovedBoston
Absolutely lovely!
This is so beautiful!!! The details on that dress are stunning!!!
xoxo Pam
http://www.thegirlfrompanama.com
Such gorgeous pictures! And that dress is amazing. You look beautiful, Laura!
xo Southern Style
Beautiful post! I love a gorgeous lace dress for serving champs in!
Such a fun, holiday post! You look lovely!! XO
Anna
alilyloveaffair.com
Absolutely beautiful- I love those invites!
This Side of Paradise
I love your white lace dress!
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com