With many folks gearing up to host holiday parties in the coming weeks, today on Made in the Shade we are gathering our top tips for party planning.

Make a Game Plan

We’ve all heard it before but it bares repeating: planning in advance is everything. Sit down at the start of your party planning process and make a plan for the coming weeks and/or days leading up to the party. Hosting can be an overwhelming task so break it down into smaller, achievable goals week-to-week or day-to-day. For example: pick a week for sending invites/evites, ordering and picking up decorations, buying and cooking food, etc… that way you’re not scrambling the evening before and can enjoy the party along with your guests. 

Sounds and Scents of the Season

Nothing gets people in the holiday spirit quite like a good holiday tune and a scented home. Set the mood at your party with a fun and festive holiday playlist to play throughout the party. Preselected playlists on Spotify and Pandora can make it easy to set and forget. Candles are lovely to scent your home but can be hazardous during parties so consider going the stove-top potpourri route by simmering oranges, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, cloves and nutmeg along with water on low. Your home will be smelling like the holidays in no time.

Low-Maintenance Menu

Minimize your day-of stress by opting for lower-maintenance menu items. Crockpot recipes can be great since you can keep them on “warm” once cooked and serve at the buffet. This eliminates the stress of scheduling cooking right up to meal time. Appetizers that can be prepped the night before and thrown in the oven when the guests arrive can also be a great option and ensure you’ll be able to enjoy the party along with your guests.

Craft Easy and Affordable Party Decor

Many party decor craft projects involve pleated paper so take step 1 out of the process by picking up one of our Original Pleated Paper shades and crafting with it. You can make banners, garlands, rosettes and more! Bonus tip: opt for the Original Pleated Paper shades in Natural or Cafe for that on-trend, rustic craft paper look.