While Christmas
usually involves numerous traditions, it does not mean that it should always be
the same person that ends up sweating and putting all the work into a
successful meal. In fact, why not involve all the guests in the making of the
perfect Christmas celebration? This way, it will reduce the level of stress and
nobody will spend the holidays in front of the oven or kitchen sink. It is also
a lot cheaper, as the holiday season is already expensive enough. What is the
solution? A potluck!
Here are a few steps to follow to planning a great Christmas Potluck.
Size of Party: Consider
how many people can comfortably eat and socialize in your home. If you only
have seating room for a small number of people, you can have an appetizers only
party where guest don't sit down to eat but rather stand up, while eating hors
d'oeuvres.
Date for Party: Pick
a date for the party. Usually the week before and after Christmas is relatively
busy for most people with many out of town. Therefore it may be best to
schedule the party two weeks in advance of Christmas. A Friday or Saturday
night is an ideal time for a potluck Christmas Party.
Menu for Party: Plan
the menu in detail. For a dinner party, as the host you should provide the main
course. Then you ask your guests to bring salad, appetizers, side dishes,
bread, dessert, beverages and other items you may need, such as extra chairs,
china and glasses. If you are having an appetizer party, each guest can bring a
hot or cold appetizer dish.
Sign up list for Party:
Create a Sign up list and invite your guests for the Christmas Party.
Mention a variety of foods as items wanted so people can choose what they are
comfortable with. You definitely don't want everyone bringing deserts!! Setup a
reminder 2 days before the event so your guests have time to plan right before
the event.
Invitation Details: Important details
such as the time, the place, the address, a map and the
BYOB notation (Bring Your Own Booze) are included in both invitations and the
list, as the guests will be able to remain well-informed and rely on both these
resources when needed. By adding the BYOB abbreviation (which you should fully
describe between parentheses beside it so as to avoid confusion), you are
letting your guests know that they are not only financially responsible for
their consumption, but that they should consider a designated driver or other
way to return home safely.
Party Decorations: Decorate your home with Christmas decorations. Clean your house
and begin preparing the main course the night before the party.
Having fun!: Have fun on the day of the event.
