How to plan and host a successful Christmas party
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and the busiest! We've asked a few of our favourite ‘industry insiders’ – people well-practised in the art of making the festive season truly special – for their pearls of wisdom to help you get Christmas sorted.
Here we talk to Skye McAlpine, cookery writer, hostess extraordinaire and founder of Skye McAlpine Tavola on the essential ingredients of a good party, and how to nail your pre-party planning.
What are the ingredients of a great party?
SM: A good party needs three things: great people, celebrations are all about the people; a relaxed host, you need to be able to enjoy yourself otherwise no one will have a good time; and plenty to eat and drink – it doesn't have to be fancy or fussy, but it's important for it to feel plentiful, welcoming and generous.
What does your pre-party planning look like?
SM: In the run up to the festive season I like to plan ahead as much as I can, partly because I love Christmas and I love thinking about it, but mostly because a good and organised plan really helps minimise stress. I make lots of lists – I swear by lists!
I do as much of the prep as far in advance as I can, whether that's doing an online shop, creating a holiday playlist, or writing out place cards. When I'm planning the menu, I really try to choose recipes that will allow me to prep well in advance. I also think carefully about oven and fridge space so I can fit everything in as needed.
Menu & Place cards, Set of 6
$14.00 at skyemcalpinetavola.com
Fruit Candles
$48.00 at skyemcalpinetavola.com
Marmorizzato Christmas Crackers, Set of 6
$48.00 at skyemcalpinetavola.com
How can we lessen the stress of hosting at Christmas?
SM: I think it's all about planning ahead and doing as much of the work as you can in advance. Really focus on the bits that you enjoy – if it feels stressful to cook a turkey go for something else instead. There's always a way of making something feel or look more festive, whether it's adding a little edible gold leaf or festive sprinkles, or topping with a few berries or a sprig of holly.
Do you have any tips for making a small gathering feel special?
SM: I love a small gathering because the logistics are simpler. I hosted a small Christmas dinner one year for friends and put the Christmas tree in the kitchen and laid the table up with lots of candles and decorations. You can afford to make it really spoiling. Choose things that you love to eat and make it really personal – maybe a favourite dish for each guest. You can also go all out with the place settings and personalise each one, perhaps with a little stocking filled with favourite sweets or chocolates.
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