by Barb Hopkins

Created on: December 16, 2011   Last Updated: April 25, 2012

Anyone can organize a successful Christmas party, even if you generally are not an organized person. The key to any successful party organization is having a plan and then implementing that plan. Create planning lists to organize party details and the timeline for each detail. Consider using a site like ListPlanIt.com to create your detailed lists and keep your party organization on track.

Five tips for organizing a successful Christmas party.

1. Set date early

The holiday season is exceptionally busy for most people. Set your party date early and send your invitations three to four weeks prior to the party date. This allows your guests ample time to include your party into their holiday schedule.

2. Ask for R.S.V.P.

R.S.V.P. simply means, “please reply.” It is the abbreviated form of the French phrase “respondez, s’ilvous plait.” It is not out of fashion to include a R.S.V.P. request on your invitations, especially if you are serving a meal at your Christmas party. As host, you will need a tentative head count in order to plan and shop for food and other party supplies. Request your guests respond to your invitation two weeks before the date of the party. Always plan for extra guests, someone may bring an unexpected “plus one.”

3.Make it clear

Your Christmas party invitation must let your guests know what to expect. Don’t make them guess about any details. Clearly state the date, “Friday, December 16” and the time “at 7 p.m.” When serving a meal, add, “Join us for drinks, dinner and delights to celebrate the Christmas holidays.” If your party has a theme, be sure to make it clear in the invitations, especially if you want your guests to dress a specific way or bring a toy to be donated to a holiday charity. If planning a gift exchange be sure to give details including spending limits. When hosting an informal family Christmas party without printed invitations, be sure to let everyone know via email or phone the important details.

4. Shop early, do a little each day

Buy as much of your party supplies and food as early as you can. This will help you stay on track with your organizational timeline and can eliminate some of the stress. It’s rare you can purchase all your party supplies and food from one store. Instead of running around to multiple stores on a busy Saturday morning, considering stopping at one store after work each day. Treat your household chores the same. Do a little bit each day, including the decorating and cleaning. Breaking up your party chores into small, manageable bits can reduce stress as you successfully cross the task off your to-do list.

5. Enlist help

Never be too proud to ask for help. Spouses, roommates and your kids can each pitch in and help get things ready and organized for your holiday party. Delegate tasks and be sure to give a specific time when you want that task complete. If you leave it open-ended, it may not get done in time.

To organize a successful Christmas party, the host must also enjoy the process. If you have fun with the party preparations, your joy will be evident at the party, the final product of your efforts. When the host is joyful, the guests will be joyful as well, and your Christmas party will be a success.

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