Vain Roxy

With Christmas just around the corner, your planning days are numbered!  I host an annual White Elephant party that seems to get bigger and bigger every year.  I’ve already booked the SLC caterer, planned the menu and the guest list.  Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you throw the best holiday party on the block.

• It’s easy to get stressed out during the holidays, especially when you are inviting guests into your home.  So relax and take a deep breath - the little imperfections here and there will go completely unnoticed.
• Don’t throw your party right around the holiday.  Have it early in the season or right after Christmas.
• Always serve at least one vegetarian dish.
• Serve yummy, enticing non-alcoholic drinks as well to accommodate those who are not drinking.
• Pay particular attention to your guest list.  Make sure to balance couples and singles and to mix good old friends with new exciting ones.
• Decorate and setup before you prep food and drinks.  Try setting the table or putting up decorations the day before so you are not trying to do a million things at once on the day of the party.
• To create a cozy and intimate setting (ideal for smaller parties), keep the lighting low and use lots of (unscented!) candles.
• Work the room and make your way periodically to the door so you can greet and say goodbye to guests.
• Fruit platters and crudites are great finger foods that guests can snack on throughout the night.