Hosting the Holidays at Home
Christmas lights are up all over the city, neighborhoods, shopping centers, and parks. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year! I know, for many, the holidays may look different this year – but that doesn't need to stop you from hosting the holiday spirit in your home! The possibilities for beautiful memories are endless. Themes, colors, games, and cocktails can inspire old and new traditions. And, you can go as extravagant or as simple as you’d like!
Seasonal Decorations
I love decorating for any season – and especially for Christmas. My current color palette obsession is white, silver, and champagne paired with gold/bronze tones. If you are wanting to create a minimalist chic look, consider using the color scheme white, gray, and beige. And, to create an elegant and refined feeling, add metal colors such as silver, gold, or bronze!
Christmas Cocktail Drinks
We had the opportunity last year to assist with a fundraising event for Just Keep Livin Foundation founded by Camila and Matthew McConaughey. As we were planning every detail perfectly, we discovered an article by Texas Living Magazine highlighting unique ways to create cocktails using Wild Turkey Longbranch, a Bourbon created by McConaughey and the Master Distiller of Wild Turkey, Eddie Russell. So, we created our own version and named it, A𝘭𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, A𝘭𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, A𝘭𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 (recipe listed below). This delicious Bourbon-inspired cocktail is perfect for the holidays!
Alright, Alright, Alright
2 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon
3/4 Lemon Juice
3/4 Cranberry Juice
3/4 Simple Syrup
Muddled Blackberry and Mint
Crushed Ice
Holiday Entertainment & Party Themes
When deciding to host for the holidays you can go as generic as you like, or select a specific theme/concept for your gathering!
Secret Santa or White Elephant Gift Exchange
Who doesn’t love coming home with a special gift? You can set a price limit and theme. And don’t forget to mention the rules before starting! I personally love participating and stealing the best gift. *Grin!*
Gingerbread Competition
Gingerbread competitions are fun for all ages. And here are a few tips on how to make yours perfectly detailed!
First, decide on how you plan to judge the competition, such as, "Most Creative” or "Most Festive." To make things extra interesting, choose a theme such as Landmarks, Fast Food Restaurants, Amusement Parks, etc. Then, lay out your supplies (the more the better!). We recommend setting out organized stations with boxes of graham crackers, marshmallows of all sizes, coconut shavings, frosting, candy canes, Red Hots, pretzels, gummies, gumdrops, and Hershey Kisses. Allow your guests to form teams if you have a larger party. If your get-together only involves a few people, divide teams into 2-4 individuals. Set a timer and let the competition begin!
Seasonal Sweet & Salty Snacks
Christmas S’mores - I love how easy it is to make S'mores! You can make these outside around a bonfire or cuddled around the fireplace in your living room. Tweak the recipe by adding some green and red sugar sprinkles to give it a festive look!
12 Dips of Christmas - This, I must say, is my favorite snack of choice. (Guilty of consuming endless amounts of chips and salsa at Mexican Restaurants!) Have your family or neighbors bring their favorite dip and chips. Then, enjoy trying all the unique flavors and recipes!
Christmas Appetizers - Some other crowd-pleasers are Cranberry Meatballs, Charcuterie Boards, Jalapeno Artichoke, Red Pepper Jelly with Brie and Crackers, and Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Peppers. Suggest that each guest bring their favorite appetizer and you’ll end up with a beautiful spread!
Breakfast for Dinner - Why not put your pajamas on, have breakfast for dinner, and call it a party? (Don’t forget your Christmas Mimosas!) Instead of orange juice, try cranberry blood orange or pomegranate juice (your preference). Then, spend the day watching Christmas Holiday Classics or a marathon of Hallmark movies!
2020 has kept us together through technology. If you are uncomfortable hosting an in-person party this season, then try a virtual holiday gathering! Experiment with a few online video services (such as Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts). You can still coordinate fun all-virtual games online! Try an online Secret Santa Gift Exchange or have a little fun hosting a Christmas Trivia party. The options are truly endless!
Whether together in-person or online, let’s end the year with our loved ones in a season full of hope, joy, and love!
Merry Christmas from Perfectly Timed Events!
-PTE