Holidays

Hosting a Holiday Celebration. . .
can be a fun way to get together with family and friends. Whether it's a 4th of July barbecue, a Thanksgiving dinner for your extended family, or a big bash to ring in the New Year, you're sure to want to do all you can to make your celebration perfect.

We're here to help. Over the years, we've provided millions of party goods for special Holiday celebrations, so we've picked up an idea or two along the way. Here are some of the best we've found.

Think Festive.

One thing that's so great about Holiday celebrations is they come complete with a ready-made theme - and all the trimmings to go along with it. Start with store-bought decorations, then take it from there, adding your own creative touches. For spring events, think lots of fresh flowers. For the winter ones, warm your home with pretty arrangements of pine cones and candles to add just the right festive touch.

Plan Ahead.

Start with the Holiday and plan backwards, thinking of all the things you can do in the days - and weeks - before your celebration, so you won't be stressed (or exhausted) come party time. If you're doing the cooking, for example, look for recipes that can be made ahead. Similarly, you can decorate your home - even set the table - days before the event.

To keep yourself organized, make a "to do" list of all the items you need to do - and when - then check off the items as they're accomplished.

Get Help From Family and Friends.

You don't have to do it all yourself. Everyone has a network of people who will cheerfully pitch in to help create a fun affair.

Remember, China Isn't Always Finer.

Break out the china for your most formal affairs. For all the others, look at the many attractive, paper and plastic place settings that are available. Even if you're hosting a dinner party, you may opt to use your china for the dinner, and complement it with attractive Holiday dinnerware for cocktails or dessert.

Don't Forget the Kids.

While some holidays - like Christmas and 4th of July - are tailor-made for kids, other celebrations may be too subdued for little ones. Make your celebration fun for them, too, by adding a few holiday-themed games. For example, host an Easter egg hunt: Fill plastic eggs with treats and/or money and hide them throughout your yard. Holiday crafts are another good idea. Or create your own version of "pin the tail on the donkey" using a turkey, rabbit or other appropriate holiday character. Hosting a summer celebration? Don't forget the piñata!

Details, Details, Details.

If you're hosting a larger celebration - say, for 25 people or more - staying organized is a sure key to making it a success. The following steps can help:

Select the date and time. Since Holidays are generally busy times, you want to set your date well in advance to make sure you get on everyone's calendar early.
Make up your guest list. Give this some thought and come up with a great mix of family and personal and business friends.
Pick the location. Your home is almost always the best choice for Holiday celebrations. If you're concerned about space - and weather permits - consider renting a tent to handle the overflow.
Purchase and send out invitations. Make sure to include all pertinent information, such as directions and an RSVP date (two weeks before the date should be fine).
Ask friends and family for vendor recommendations. Think caterers, servers, balloons, musicians, rental companies, florists and decorators. Once you've chosen your vendors, confirm all arrangements in writing - and again a few days prior to the event.
Set a budget and time schedule. Once you've selected your vendors, keep to the budget and timetable, and refer to it frequently to make sure you stay on solid ground.
Shop for decorations and favors. There are many designs and packages to choose from.
Double check every detail. Keep a detailed "to do" list leading up to the event. Write down those items you want to buy, call about, or double check - along with timelines - and check off items as the party planning progresses.

Supplies Checklist

Invitations

Postage stamps

Food/beverages

Cake

Paper goods (i.e., tablecloths, plates, napkins, cutlery, cups)

Centerpieces

Favors

Balloons and helium

Streamers

Confetti

Giftwrap, bows, ribbons

Banners/lawn sign