18 Nov 4 Essential Elements to Successfully Entertaining During the Holidays
One of the most anticipated activities during the holidays is parties, especially if you’re the guest. But if you’re the hostess, it can also seem a bit overwhelming. How do you entertain and go down in history like our good friend, Rudolph? We’re here to share some surefire ways to help you throw a successful party so that you (and your guests) have a jolly ol’ time together.
1. Serve your Guests Something Appetizing
Every party needs people. But how do you get them there? Get the right menu! Everyone knows food makes for a great party. If you’re a domestic goddess, more power to you! But if you need a more simplified approach, grab a party platter from the supermarket (no one will even know). If you’ve got the funds, you can even splurge on a caterer. Some holiday menu items can include cheeseballs and crackers, a 7-layer bean dip, spinach artichoke dip, turkey pinwheels, meatballs, cookies, and pastries. (Click here for more festive food ideas). Or if you’re serving up a big dinner, try this recipe for a Easy Copycat Honey-baked Ham, or this Easy Herb Roasted Turkey.
But if you want a real show stopper, and something your guests are sure to rave about, serve up some Jolly Llama Sorbet and Cream Pops. Not only are these pops delicious, they’re also a healthier alternative to the sugar-packed treats traditionally offered during the holidays (what guest wouldn’t appreciate that?). It’s the perfect treat for those refraining from gluten and dairy. Kids and adults alike love these simple, tasty treats. With nine different flavors to choose from, you have plenty of options! Plus, the Mint Chocolate Chill and Sea Salt Caramel Craze are the perfect holiday flavors!
2. Add Some Festive Flare
Setting the mood is important at a holiday party. So it’s time to deck those halls! Whip out the Christmas trees, mistletoes, bells, garlands, and wreaths to set the perfect magical tone. Keep the color scheme simple by decorating around two main colors. Drape your chandelier and staircase with garlands, hang ribbons, embellish your centerpieces, and hang wreaths over the windows.
You can even set the mood with a Christmas-y fragrance like cinnamon. Simply add a cinnamon stick or two in a pot of boiling water, and then let it simmer it for about 30 minutes before taking it off the heat. Fragrances are scientifically proven to make us feel good. Our sense of smell is the only sense that affects the memory and emotion part of the brain. So if you want your guests to enjoy the party and return next year, consider adding a good aroma.
Remember that lighting is important, too. Light some candles, turn on the fireplace, or hang strands of twinkling lights. Make it be a winterland wonderland.
Depending on your style and budget, you can add a lot of festive flare to your party. (Click here for more decor ideas).
3. Play Some Holiday Tunes
As Buddy the Elf put it, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.” Some classics your guests might enjoy are: “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Frank Sinatra, and “Let It Snow” by Dean Martin. Or if you’re looking for something a little more current, there have been some great renditions made of the classics. “All I Want for Christmas” by Mariah Carrey and “Santa Baby” by Kylie Minogue are festive, too.
Some audio streaming platforms like Spotify, Pandora, and Amazon Music have pre-made Christmas Christmas playlists for your convenience. An ideal playlist goes from mellow, to upbeat, and then relaxing. If you have too many upbeat songs together you can over-stimulate your guests, causing them to ditch the party before it even gets going.
Whatever you choose, make sure you secure a playlist ahead of time and have the sound system set up properly. Nobody likes walking into a quiet party.
4. Make it Fun
Entertainment is key to a good party. This can be really intimidating for a lot of people. It’s crucial to get your guests involved with whatever you have on your agenda. Some fun holiday games may include:
- White Elephant gift exchange
- Gift Wrap Relay Race
- Christmas Carol Charades
- Bingo
- Snowman Building Contest
- Name That Carol
Click here for details and more game ideas.
You can also have a fun theme, like an “Ugly Sweater Party,” or a holiday-themed movie party. Of course there are other ways to get involved and have fun— singing karaoke, dancing, and engaging in good conversations. Whatever you decide on, make sure that you as the hostess also get involved. If the hostess has fun, so will the guests!
We’ve raised the ‘bar’ at Jolly Llama with our delicious Sorbet Pops and Cream Bars. Let us help you do the same at your next party. Pick up yours at a local-carrying grocer today!
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