by Rachel Stacey

Created on: November 19, 2010   Last Updated: November 20, 2010

What comes to mind when you think of Christmas? The smell of Grandma's shortbread cookies, romantic evenings by a crackling fire, or leisurely walks on top of freshly fallen snow. Time to wake up from THAT dream! There are parties to attend (and your own to plan), shopping to do, presents to wrap, decor to hang, and the list goes on and on. Sometimes we became so wrapped up in Christmastime activities that we are unable to enjoy the beauty of the holiday season. If you are adding hosting your own party to your to-do list things will get even more hectic. Thankfully, there are some easy tips to aid in organizing a stress-free Christmas party.

Work with what you have

If you traditionally decorate your home for Christmas, do so before the party but don't add any extra. While you may feel that your house needs to look more spectacular, your guest haven't gotten used to seeing the decorations that have been up for weeks. You home will have a newly decorated, fresh look to your guests. 

If you have not already decorated your home, don't feel that you have to pull out all the stops. A door wreath, fresh flower arrangement, a few scented candles, a fireplace and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree will be enough to create a welcoming cozy environment full of holiday cheer. Also, plan to set the mood by playing some Christmas tunes at the party.

Opt for an afternoon party

Dinner or evening Christmas parties can quickly become an expensive and hectic undertaking. A Saturday afternoon party might be easier for your guests as well. Chances are yours is not the only party they will attend during the season and paying a sitter to watch the kids for all these parties can be stressful. If children will be attending, plan to set up a craft table and other games to help keep them occupied. 

Afternoon parties are usually not as much of an over-the-top ordeal. Dress will be more casual and decor can be minimized. At an afternoon party you can serve appetizers and a few baked goods instead of a dinner party where you will serve a full meal and extra desserts. 

Avoid preparing the food yourself

Most of us think we have to do it all ourselves. We don't! A fun alternative to a traditional dinner party is a pot luck dinner. Each guest will only have to bring one item to share with the group so there isn't much work for anyone involved. Pot Luck dinners are fun and can be great conversation starters. Finding out who made your favorite dish and hunting them down for the recipe will occupy some of the awkward time spent in silence between guests that do not know each other. 

If you choose to provide all of the party's refreshments yourself, save tons of time by buying party trays. Beautiful and tasty party trays can be purchased at almost any grocery store. While these may seem expensive they are usually not much more, if any more expensive than making the trays yourself. You can easily supply enough food for the entire party with a variety of trays including: meat / cheese, relish, vegetable, fruit, appetizers, mini sandwiches, wraps, cookies, cheesecake samplers, the list goes on and on. Keep drinks simple by filling a large cooler with soda, sparkling waters, juices, etc. 

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