8 Tips for hosting a holiday party at home

It's time to get in the holiday spirit.

The holiday season is about spending time with family and friends, and one of the best ways to do that is by hosting your loved ones. Parties are a sure way to spread the Christmas cheer and celebrate with your friends and family. But hosting can be daunting, especially during this busy time of year. Whether you need help figuring out where to start planning or just trying to level up your festivities, we have you covered.

Here are eight tips to take the stress out of planning and to ensure you host a memorable holiday party.

Start with a theme

Choosing a theme for your holiday party can help tie everything together and make the planning process more manageable. It can be anything from a traditional Christmas to a winter wonderland or even an ugly sweater party. Once you have an idea, use it as inspiration for decorations, food, and activities.

Plan ahead

The key to a stress-free holiday event is planning. Make a list of everything you need to do and start preparing early, like sending out invitations, creating a menu, and decorating your home.

Create a festive atmosphere

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Make your home feel warm and inviting by creating a festive atmosphere. Play holiday music and add holiday touches like garlands or twinkling lights to transform your space.  

No matter your style, you’ll find everything you need to decorate for your upcoming holiday parties with Bouclair’s holiday line. Whether you’re looking for festive table runners, everything you need to trim your Christmas tree, or throws and pillows for cozy festivities. CAA Membership to save 5% on your total purchase when shopping online or in stores.  

Complete your hosting look with a festive apron designed to make you look like one of Santa’s elves or a light-up snowflake headband. For holiday accessories, costumes and décor, trust Party Experts. You’ll get 6% back in CAA Dollars when you shop online with your CAA Membership. 

Keep the menu simple

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When it comes to the holiday season, food is often the main event. Going all out and trying to impress your guests with an extravagant feast can be tempting, but simple is often better. Stick to a few well-executed dishes instead of trying to cook a seven-course meal, as it will save you time and stress.

Remember to pick up serving bowls and trays to present your dishes attractively. A buffet-style setup is easier than a formal sit-down dinner and allows guests to mingle while they eat. For your buffet spread, holiday serving ware will keep your guests feeling festive. Stokes’s holiday collection features whimsical plates shaped like snowflakes, perfect for holiday treats.  

Offer a variety of drinks

Stokes

Make sure to have a variety of drinks available for your guests, including non-alcoholic options. You can create a festive signature drink or set up a hot cocoa bar with different toppings and flavours. Plenty of drink options will ensure all your guests feel included in the celebration.

Make sure to have a variety of drinks available for your guests, including non-alcoholic options, to ensure that all your guests feel included in the celebration. You can create a festive signature drink or set up a hot cocoa bar with different toppings and flavours. 

Instead of being stuck pouring drinks all night, set up a drink table where guests can help themselves. Stokes has plenty of options, including pitchers and dispensers. One festive top pick is the Flocon Drink Dispenser, which looks like a Christmas ornament. While shopping at Stokes, show your CAA Membership, as you’ll save an additional 5% on the total purchase amount in-store or online. 

Consider having a hot drinks station too, with coffee and tea. DAVIDsTEA has an incredible holiday collection of festive teas like the Sugar n’ Spice 8 Tea Sampler or Winter Magic Tea Kit. When shopping online for tea, CAA Members earn 5% back in CAA Dollars. 

Delegate tasks

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Get your guests involved in creating the perfect holiday party, and don't be afraid to ask for help from friends and family. Assign tasks like bringing a side dish or see if some guests can come early to help decorate or set out the party snacks. Hosting a party is a lot of work and can be stressful for you and your family. Letting your guests help will take some of the hosting stress off your shoulders and can help them feel more involved.

Have a plan for leftovers

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As much as we love holiday feasts, no one wants to be stuck with a fridge full of leftovers. To avoid food waste and ensure your guests can take some goodies home, have containers and bags available to pack up leftovers. Or ask your guests to bring containers to take some holiday treats home. You can also create food care packages for your family or neighbours. If you still have lots of food, use a little creativity (and help from recipe blogs) to transform your leftovers into new dishes.

Enjoy yourself

FG Trade | iStock

Finally, remember to enjoy yourself! Hosting a party can be stressful, but remember that your guests are there to celebrate with you. Take breaks throughout the night to mingle and have fun with everyone else. After all, hosting a successful holiday party is about creating memories and enjoying time with loved ones.

Get ready for the holiday season

When gearing up for this holiday season, don't forget your CAA Membership. Shop our trusted Rewards Partners to find exclusive perks and savings. Visit us online to find out more.