Plan the Perfect Party in Your Luxury Home Year Round
Last updated on December 17th, 2024
Tis the season for your calendar to be filled with events, outings, and plenty of parties! It’s a busy time of year, especially if you are the one hosting the celebration. From setting the date to hugging your last guest goodbye, there are so many details that go into planning a gathering during the holidays. Here are a few do’s and don’ts on how to throw the best get-together in your luxury home, and keep your festive spirit!
DO the cooking
Indulge your inner chef and create a menu filled with all the foods you love! Take advantage of your top-notch appliances and ample space where guests can socialize and enjoy the joyous occasion. Keep it simple with simmering meatballs on the stovetop – just add a toothpick, and your dish will transform into an easy plate of appetizers, or pop them in a roll for an informal sandwich night. Serve platters of crudité with cheese and crackers, but keep in mind that most guests only nibble and graze.
DON’T overthink the drinks
Frequently, friends and family do not expect the host to provide a full bar at a house party – instead, stick to the basics. Party planning expert Renee Patrone recommends wine and beer – especially craft beers, which are very on trend right now – and a signature cocktail like a martini or a sangria. Consider setting up an interactive champagne area complete with chopped strawberries, bowls of berries, and different juices that your guests can use to make a holiday libation.
DO utilize designated party spaces
Weather permitting, allow invitees to flow freely from room to room, indoor to outdoor. Entertaining in a home provides a luxury indoor-outdoor venue, perfect for your holiday events. Make sure there’s ample seating in all areas of your home and consider adding a portable fire pit or outdoor heaters for outside during the winter months in the cold-weather states.
DON’T say no to help
If a guest asks to bring an extra appetizer or a dessert, take advantage of the opportunity. If they offer to clean up afterward, point them to the double kitchen sinks or other areas that may need a little extra assistance. Also, consider hiring outside services such as . They can greet your guests at the door, load up the dishwasher at the end of the night, and complete all of the required work so that you can enjoy your party worry-free, and have an exquisitely clean kitchen the next day.
DO add personal touches
On the invite, ask your guests to share their favorite song or holiday tune and create a playlist based on the suggestions. For a family party, add any personalization to napkins or wine glass markers with the family name initial. Mix in fresh flowers – even inexpensive bouquets from your local grocery store – and display them throughout the home, including the bathrooms. This sets the mood and makes your home feel even more inviting.
Above all, have fun and enjoy! Visit our to watch a broadcast on party tips from Renee Patrone as she tours through the Reserve at Holmdel, in New Jersey. Also, explore tasty recipes on our .
Renee Patrone owner of Ի contributed to this story.
