Throwing Together a Quick and Easy Holiday Party

It never fails, each year we are somehow taken off guard by how quickly the holidays approach us. We know that they come at the same time each year, yet we stress because we're not ready. It's human nature I suppose but there are ways to beat the holiday stress when it comes to entertaining. Even if the holidays have crept up on you this year as they have in the past, stay on top of it by arming yourself with some great tips. You can throw an amazing holiday party with little effort and without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips:

*Go with existing decoration. What better time of year to have a party than at Christmas! Your house is likely already decorated and that's a perfect backdrop for a festive party. Be sure that your lights are up to welcome guests in and throw in a cute and simple touch such as lighting the sidewalk or porch with festive holiday candle bags. Little touches like this can make a festive and memorable party.

*Decide on the type of party and go with it as a theme. We know that it will be a holiday party, but determine ahead of time if it's formal or casual, if it's adults only cocktail or kid centered. Figuring out the details will make it much easier on you and the guests. If it's an adult only party come up with a signature cocktail that's festive such as a cosmopolitan. If it's kid friendly then put together gift bags for each child--this will keep them entertained and give them something to get excited about.

*Get your supplies at a steal! Dollar stores have great party supplies super cheap, so check them out. You can walk out the door with your plates, napkins, and any other accessories for very little money. They have festive patterns and you don't have to break the bank to get everything you need for this specific type of party.

*Take people up on the offer to bring something. Everyone wants to bring something to your party, so assign things when you're asked. You can either make it a potluck or just ask people to bring things that you know won't go to waste. Bottles of wine and great desserts are always a crowd pleaser and take some of the strain and cost off of you.

*Use the season for everything you can. You can have Christmas music playing in the background, play games associated with the holiday, and even do a gift grab. We've always had all guests bring a $15-20 item that goes into a grab bag--then everybody leaves with something and it's a fun way to celebrate!

*Look for sale items ahead of time or know the right stores to go to. I always say that keeping staples like wine and crackers in the house is a good idea. Not only do you know that you'll use them at this time of year, but if you stock up on them you don't have to run out at the last minute for these easy to forget items. If you know that you use a ton of cream cheese, sour cream, or items like that around the holidays stock up. It helps to go to a membership club and buy in bulk--it won't go to waste!

Entertaining at the holidays doesn't have to be stressful! Not only can it be easy, but it can be fun! Use the holidays as your theme and work everything off of that. With a few nice touches, everyone will be sure to have a happy holiday.