MY MEDALLION
As magical as this time of the year is, it can also be just a tiny bit challenging for the ones hosting the holiday parties. However, hosting within the cozy layout of an apartment presents its unique set of challenges. But with the right approach and a well-thought-out checklist, you can transform your apartment into the perfect stage for an unforgettable festive feast. From planning to execution, we’ve covered all major aspects of the required groundwork so you’re prepared to enjoy the evening.
Let’s explore Medallion’s guide to holiday hosting and entertaining:
The Theme
Deciding on a theme is a pivotal first step in hosting a holiday dinner that sets the tone for the entire event. A well-chosen theme not only adds festivity but also guides your decisions for decorations and menu selections, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. Whether you opt for a glamorous ‘Christmas in Vegas’, a sophisticated ‘Black Tie’ affair, or a more relaxed and whimsical ‘Ugly Christmas Sweater’ party, the theme can elevate the excitement and engagement of your guests. Adding an element where your guests can participate even before the party is the key to putting together an unforgettable evening!
Holiday Decor
Decorating for a Christmas holiday party in an apartment calls for creativity, especially when working with compact spaces. One space-saving tip is to opt for a wall-mounted Christmas tree, which captures the festive spirit without occupying floor space. It has all the charm of a traditional Christmas tree, and barely takes up any floor space! You can explore varieties of Christmas trees to find the one that contributes to your chosen theme. Utilizing vertical spaces with hanging decorations, like garlands or fairy lights, can add a festive touch without cluttering the room. Consider using multi-functional decor, such as a centrepiece that doubles as a serving area, to maximize utility and aesthetic appeal.
Guests, Menu & Cooking
The holy trinity of hosting a holiday dinner – guest list, menu, and cooking. When preparing the guest list and sending out invitations, it’s important to take note of any allergies or food restrictions one might have. This can save you any potential hiccups on the day of. One sure-shot way of navigating the long hours of cooking is to host a potluck! This also gives everyone an opportunity to taste food from different cultures and makes for a unique holiday experience. In case you do plan to cook everything on your own, be sure to prepare a few days in advance. You can cook and freeze cocktail mixes, sauces, any kinds of gravies, and more.
Entertainment
Incorporating entertainment options when hosting a holiday dinner can significantly enhance the experience for your guests. Curating a music playlist that aligns with the mood and theme adds a layer of ambience, setting the tone for the evening. Fun holiday-themed games can be the highlight of your gathering. Invest in fun games like Loud Librarians and Blurgh, which can be played by both a small and a large group. For those hosting families, investing in a pack of dry-erase boards for kids to play around with adds a thoughtful touch. These elements bring an extra spark of joy and ensure that guests of all ages have a memorable time.
Well-stocked Pantry
Maintaining a well-stocked pantry is a key aspect of seamless holiday hosting, especially in the compact layout of an apartment where space is at a premium. Keeping a variety of snacks like granola bars, nut butter, cookies, and roasted dry fruits, along with a range of beverages such as sodas, sparkling water, and juices, ensures you’re prepared for the influx of guests during the festive season. Dry snacks can be stored in any space in your apartment instead of taking up counter space in the kitchen. You can even store your drinks on your balcony to free up space in your fridge. This foresight not only saves you from last-minute grocery runs but also provides a convenient buffer for your main event.
As they say, we hope you have the most wonderful time of the year! While you’re still here, check out our apartment finder tool to discover apartments across Ontario.
