1. Decor:

For a simple yet high style party, identify your look and feel, choose a color scheme, and then stick with it from the wreath at the front door all the way to your cocktail station. I like to add one pattern and one metallic to create dimension and add in complementing textures. Also don’t be afraid to look past the traditional color schemes of silver and gold or red and green. Use what you have! There is no reason to break the bank for one party. Summery black and white check? No problem! Add fresh flowers, garlands, greenery and cranberries to create a one of a kind holiday look.

2. Flow:

When having a group of people over make sure it’s comfortable. Move furniture around to make space for guests to move freely from one room to another. Create multiple intimate areas for people to sit and chat. Consider bringing in additional seating and lounge furniture if necessary. Think about the amount of flat surfaces in your home, small end tables can be a lifesaver for setting drinks down on while snacking!

 3. Mood:

To create the perfect mood, find ways to incorporate all 5 senses, just do so in moderation to avoid overstimulation. Sight: dim any bright overhead lights and use led flameless candles placed all throughout the home for a warm glow. Lighting is crucial for every event no matter the season. To be a true party pro, don’t forget small spaces like the mudroom and powder room, each room should feel like it is a part of the party! Scent: consider a few (and by few I mean like 2) Christmas scented candles or even simmer some cinnamon on the stove. Keep it light though sometimes too much of a good thing is well...too much! Sound: make the perfect party playlist. To infuse the party with holiday cheer without driving anyone crazy with every possible rendition of Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, use a 60/40 mix with current party tunes! If you don’t have time to create a custom playlist Spotify has a holiday playlist no matter what your favorite genre is and you can never go wrong with Pandora’s holiday station Touch: Consider dropping the thermostat a few degrees below normal. The house tends to heat up quickly as guest start arriving and drinks start flowing.

4. Food:

Here’s the secret to making your holiday party as easy as pie. Personally I am a huge fan of cocktail parties. They allow you to mingle more with friends and family. The best part less clean up! Consider working with a local caterer or favorite restaurant to pick up an assortment of hor d'oeuvres you can arrange beautifully back home. Get creative! Display your food in unexpected containers like shot glasses, mini trifle dishes, skewers, and more. People tend to stay and hover around the food. To get them moving around, place different food stations throughout the home. Lastly as the night is winding down set out some take home boxes and encourage your guests to help themselves to go!

 5. Drinks:

Don’t play bartender all night. Set up one or two self-serve cocktail stations complete with premixed specialty cocktails, wine, beer, and a few different mixers and you're all set. Trust me your guests will love being free to grab what they want and whenever they want. Dress up your self-serve bar with festive coasters, stir sticks, and napkins. Pick up a few fun wine bottle stoppers and bottle openers that fit your theme. Get creative and have fun choosing your specialty cocktails. For the ultimate fun drink station create a hot cocoa bar and let guests enjoy their favorite childhood beverage with or without some Bailey’s Irish Crème!

6. Mix it Up

Do you host the same party every year and want to keep your decor fresh in order to not bore you guests? Instead of purchasing decor to match a new color scheme year after year, think about renting your linens and other decor items. The Collection by Total Events is a hand-picked selection of linens and overlays that are exclusively available through Total Events. In addition to the beautiful linens they also have beautiful decor items and any additional lounge furniture or tables you may need!

Now you're all set to tackle the perfect Holiday party with style and ease!

For more party planning tips from Melissa please visit her on her website http://styledbymelissa.com/.