As the famous Andy Williams song suggests, the holidays are “the most wonderful time of the year.” What the nostalgic jingle failed to specify is that the “hap-happiest season of all” also unleashes copious amounts of str-stress. Between the all-encompassing act of hosting out of town guests and the pressure of throwing a momentous celebration, the holiday season can quickly escalate from “gay happy meetings” into a household of high blood pressure. Fortunately, our team loves that kind of holiday commotion – so much, in fact, that we have devoted our lives to it.
This year it is our goal to help you slow down enough to appreciate some of the simple gems that this sentimental season has to offer, such as the heart-warming scents of pine and peppermint. In order to ensure your tranquility, we have created a list of suggestions that will provide you with all of the tools you need to host an unforgettable holiday celebration.
Keep it refined. Everyone wants his or her event to be remembered – in a good way. Create an elegant décor by focusing on details such as colors, textures and textiles rather than prepackaged, store-bought decorations.
Keep the menu cohesive. Whether celebrating Christmas, Kwanza or Chinese New Year, the holiday, itself, has already claimed the rights to the theme; however, integrating a motif into your menu is a good way to ensure a room of happy palates. Smoked foods and cocktails (yes, smoked cocktails) are of the essence, but with the right chef, even a traditional menu can be presented as cutting-edge.
Take out the fine china – or bamboo. Depending on the size of your guest list, you may be struggling between the classic battle of “paper or porcelain.” Dining with fine china is always preferred for formal events (even if rented), but when not feasible, bamboo plates are sure to be appreciated by your eco-friendly guests.
Sometimes newer is not always better. With our technology-driven society, it is easy to lose sight of those old-fashioned customs. E-vites are functional, but for a grandeur celebration, sending formal invitations through snail mail is much more appreciated than most realize.
Get inspired by nature. The outdoors have always given us a sense of serenity, but during this eco-friendly revolution, staying al fresco is also a fashion statement. Embellish your venue with flowers, branches and handcrafted details created by your local florists to create an effortless winter scene.
It’s always better live. That chilling feeling you get from the chords and vibrations of a live piano can never be replicated through even a quality stereo system. Consider hiring a live musician to add just one more layer of fervor to your celebration.
Ask for help. Sometimes it is just nice to not have to worry about, you know, anything. Hiring a staff for your party (e.g. private chefs, caterers, servers, babysitters…) and organizing with an event planner (like CCE!) will allow you to focus on your guests, yourself, and the magic of the season – worry-free.
