Guide to Planning Your Next Holiday Party in Style

Photo Tara Marolda Photography

With the holidays rapidly approaching, it helps to know what to expect when planning a celebration. While intimate, casual gatherings usually come together without a hitch, larger events are composed of more moving parts to think about. We asked Sarah Rose Attman, founder of Sarah Rose Events in Aspen, to give us some party planning pointers.

How to Begin

Photo Tara Marolda Photography

To start, Attman recommends nailing down the basics. “Think about your guest list, where you plan to host your party, and your budget.” She suggests a simple spreadsheet to create an event timeline that includes set-up, cocktail hour, dinner, and clean-up. When complete, this can be shared with key vendors to keep, literally everyone, on the same page.

Next, take some time to browse websites like Pinterest for inspiration. “How you want your event to look will be easy to share with others if you’re able to provide some examples of what you have in mind,” Attman says. “Often, a vendor can offer you a couple of options to choose from keeping your budget in mind.” Attman also recommends looking for vendors that provide more than a single service. “Selecting a florist who can also manage linens and table set-up will help achieve a cohesive design and eliminate some of the hassle of multiple vendors and deliveries.”

Hire a Caterer and Bar Staff

Photo Tara Marolda Photography

Attman says this recommendation will be helpful across the board for anything other than an intimate dinner or event. “Hiring help for food and beverage service allows hosts to be welcoming and present for their guests,” she explains. “It’s stressful to be torn between mingling and running back and forth to the kitchen.”

Create a Festive Vibe

Photo Tara Marolda Photography

Parties are for greeting old friends and meeting new ones. A cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeuvres facilitates mingling and lively conversation. “An efficient bar is one of the keys to party success,” she points out. A bar professional can also mix and serve a signature cocktail in addition to other libation choices. After cocktails and appetizers, dinner and desert can be served buffet-style or plated.

Make Your Party Sparkle

Photo Tara Marolda Photography

The little details are all-important in the creation of the evening’s ambiance and mood. “Holidays are a great time for sparkle in the décor and even the drinks,” exclaims Attman. “Search Etsy and Amazon for unique touches that will make the evening fun and memorable.”