Hosting a stress-free holiday event at your house can be a delightful experience. 

To achieve this: 

1. you’ll want to plan ahead
2. keep things simple
3. ensure you have the right decor, cocktails, and appetizers. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you host the perfect non-stressful holiday event:

1. Plan Ahead:

• Choose a Date: Select a date that works for you and your guests, ideally a weekend or a day when everyone can attend.
• Create a Guest List: Determine the number of guests you want to invite and send out invitations well in advance, either digitally or via traditional mail.
• Budget: Establish a budget for your event to keep your spending in check. 
• Menu Planning: Decide on your holiday cocktail and appetizers, and make a shopping list. (see below for inspiration) 

2. Holiday Decor:

• Affordable Decor on Amazon: Here are some links to popular decor items:

  – String Lights

  – Tablecloths

  – Centerpieces

  – Ornaments

3. Holiday Cocktail: 

Cranberry Moscow Mule

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz vodka
  • 4 oz cranberry juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • Ginger beer
  • Fresh cranberries and lime wedges for garnish 
• Directions:
  • Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
  • Add vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
  • Top with ginger beer.
  • Garnish with cranberries and a lime wedge.

4. Holiday Appetizers: 

• Brie and Cranberry Phyllo Cup
• Mini Meatballs in Cranberry Sauce
• Stuffed Mushrooms

5. Party Essentials:

• Don’t forget to have enough
  • Plates
  • Utensils
  • Napkins
  • Glasses
• Here’s a curated playlist of holiday music. 

6. Prepare in Advance:

3-5 Days Before the Event:

• Plan the Menu:
  • Finalize the menu, including your holiday cocktail and appetizers.
  • Make a shopping list for all the ingredients you’ll need.
• Decor Shopping:
  • Order or purchase decor items from your preferred sources (like the Amazon links provided earlier).

2 Days Before the Event:

• Shop for Groceries:
  • Buy all the necessary food and beverage ingredients.
  • Check your list twice to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything.
• Prepare Appetizer Components:
  • Prepare any components of your appetizers that can be made in advance and stored. For example, you can chop vegetables, make dips, or marinate ingredients.

1 Day Before the Event:

• Decorate Your Space:
  • Set up and decorate your space using the decor items you purchased.
  • Ensure your table is set and ready for the event.
• Prepare the Holiday Cocktail:
  • If possible, mix the cocktail in a large batch and chill it. Add ice or garnishes just before serving.
• Clean and Organize
  • Tidy up your home, clean the areas where guests will be, and organize the space.

On the Day of the Event:

• Prepare Remaining Appetizers:
  • Assemble any appetizers that couldn’t be prepared in advance.
• Set the Table:
  • Lay out the plates, utensils, napkins, and glasses
• Lighting and Music:
  • Ensure your lighting and music are set to create a festive atmosphere.
• Last-Minute Prep:
  • Prepare your cocktail garnishes (e.g., lemon wedges, cocktail cherries).
  • Double-check that you have enough ice.
• Relax and Enjoy:
  • Greet your guests, offer them a drink, and enjoy the evening with them.