The Ultimate Christmas Party

Hi everyone.

It's that time of year where we get a lot of invitations to Christmas parties and deciding if we can make all of them or not. This time of year gets very busy for me as my husband is in a brass band and there are several concerts in November and December which means I can't always go to Christmas events/parties.

But when I can, I make sure to have lots of fun and catch up with people that I don't always get to see through the year.

Having said that it doesn't stop you from hosting a Christmas party yourself. Here are my top tips for organising one and how to have fun at the same time.

1. If someone offers to help plan the party or offers to bring a dish/drink- say yes. Many hands make light work.

2. Have mini nibbles instead of doing a full meal- it saves lots of time and it's less stressful.

3. Set up a music playlist on your phone and use a Bluetooth speaker to create some ambience in your home.

4. Always label your food with a little place card underneath each dish- that way if someone doesn't like a certain food or has allergies you've covered all bases.

5. Have some colouring books and colouring pencils on hand for children.

6. A party isn't a party without games. Pick a few and encourage everyone to join in.

7. Don't forget to decorate your house. Minimal or full on Christmas? You decide.

8. Make a note about parking I.e. for us we have a supply of visitors permits. All we need are guests reg numbers and we can organise permits online. We buy a year's worth of permits (which saves us a little money). That way guests can decide whether it's better to drive or take public transportation.

9. Use paper plates and paper cups- it saves on the washing up and can be thrown into a bin bag at the end of the party.

10. Most of all, have fun and enjoy the company of friends. Smiles all round.

Do you host a Christmas party? What tips do you have? Share them below and we will feature them on our social media.