Between shoveling snow off the driveway, shopping for gifts, baking holiday meals and getting the house ready for the season, decorating the Christmas tree can seem like just another chore on the to-do list. However, you can check this item off in a fun and efficient way with a little bit of planning. Instead of arranging ornaments on the branches by yourself, throw a tree trimming party this winter! Otherwise called a tree decorating party, a tree trimming party involves inviting all your friends and family members over to decorate the Christmas tree. Not only does it get the job done in a snap, but it’s a great excuse to spend time with the people who mean the most to you – and isn’t that what the holidays are all about, anyway? Use this guide to throw a tree trimming party at your home:
Sending out the holiday party invitations
Select a holiday party invitation that reflects the theme of your event to get people in the Christmas spirit right from the start. For example, you may want to select a greeting card with an image of a tree or ornament on the front. Additionally, mail out the invitations as soon as you have all the logistic details in place. The holiday season is a very popular time for parties, so you’ll want to give guests enough time to plan ahead.
Preparing for the party ahead of time
You undoubtedly want to spend time with your friends and family at the party rather than being busy organizing activities and food. After all, that’s the whole purpose of the party – to sidestep the chore part of Christmas. Make it easier on yourself by preparing for festivities ahead of time and having your tree-trimming supplies ready to go. For example, if you’re stringing popcorn garland on the tree, make the popcorn ahead of time and have all the supplies ready if you’re going to include guests in making the DIY decor.
Serving the right food
Holiday parties are one of the easiest to plan for when it comes to snacks and beverages – just pick from any of the many classic Christmas eats. Eggnog, anyone? Make this winter favorite for your guests, adding some spirits into the mix for the adult attendees.
Christmas cookies are also a tradition your party simply can’t go without. Get the kids involved on this one. Sticking with the preparing-in-advance mindset, set aside a day where you can bake sweet treats with your little ones. They’ll love decorating all the goodies, and you’ll enjoy having a ready-made snack for party guests.
Whatever you do, keep it light. If you invite guests at 7:00 or 8:00 pm, you’ll bypass the typical dinner time and only need to provide small appetizers, desserts and drinks. This way, you’ll save all your energy for decorating the tree!
Setting the tone
Throwing a party sort of forces you into decorating your house for the season, but it’s a task that needs to be completed anyway. Set the right tone at your party by decking your halls with fun Christmas decorations. No need to go all out – just set up what you normally would for the season. Also, don’t forget the Christmas music. It’s going to be ringing on every radio station anyway, so you may as well turn it up for all to hear.
Saying ‘thank you’
You should take time to thank your guests for attending and helping you decorating the holiday tree. Consider sending thank you cards to everyone who joined in on the fun. For an immediate demonstration of appreciation, Punchbowl recommends sending guests home with a party favor such as a personalized photo ornament.
Make decorating fun this year by throwing a tree trimming party. It’s a great way to spend time with family and friends during the holiday season.