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ThePartyProfessor
Monthly Column

Let the Party Professor teach you all the basics of party and event planning. In good time, you will complete your formal education and be ready to set the world on fire with your vast knowledge and skill. Until then, learn, learn, learn.

Holiday Event Planning Guide
A Checklist of Things to Do

The holidays get to be overwhelming, so start early. Get your shopping out of the way NOW! You'll be thankful for that, and it will give you all that more time to entertain this season.

Most likely you are having family and friends over to celebrate the Holidays. You may want to have one big Open House or a party, or you may want to split it into several Open Houses or events (this is great especially if you have a small space).

Here is a checklist to help you plan for one or more Holiday extravaganzas!

1. Decide if you want to entertain, and if you do, when and how! You'll want to consider how much time you have, how much effort you want to put into it and, of course, your budget. Some of us are lucky enough to hire a caterer, others could, but won't and some do everything themselves. Just make sure you have enough time or you make your party simple enough so that you're not sorry you did it and you can have a good time!
2. Make a list. And check it twice. In fact, make several lists: the people you want to see over the holiday, the people who get cards, the people who get tokens of appreciation, and the people who get gifts. Don't forget the paperboy, the postman, teachers and others you come in contact with on a daily basis.
3. Start baking in advance…holiday cookies in the shapes of stars, bells, candy canes, Santa, Christmas Trees and wreaths! Freeze the cookies. Use them as gifts and for a Holiday Tea, buffet or outright party! There are some great holiday tins out there just for the taking! Stock up.
4. Stock up on "goodies"--so that if friends or family stop by for a "holiday hello," you are always the best hostess ever! As silly as it seems, keep a can of cashews or nuts that you can throw into a bowl; dessert candies (like holiday petit fors) you can bring out for everyone to try; a full host of beverages; and, holiday cookies.
5. Pull out your holiday decorations--whether it's Thanksgiving or Christmas and freshen them up or decide on what you want to replace (or add). Look to your home and nature for new ideas: a candle display, scattered pinecones (you can glitter them right after Thanksgiving if you like), a display of fall fruits mixed with leaves and twigs, etc. As well, when shopping don't go directly to the Christmas/Holiday decorations. Look for things that are fun and fanciful. A great place to look is in a craft store--great ideas, great prices!
6. Read! Next time you're standing in line at the supermarket, check out the magazines for great entertaining ideas: Family Circle, Martha Stewart Living, Good Housekeeping, and Ladies Home Journal are just some examples, always have great gift-making ideas, decorating ideas, recipes and more.

Happy Holidays! May you be organized and happy!!
The Party Professor!

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