Plan an Informal Holiday Party for Family and Friends | Day 20 of 60 Health Storey Holiday Prep | Email Invite Template
Day 20: Planning for the Holidays – Hosting a St. Nicholas Party for Two Families
As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to bring families together to celebrate traditions and create lasting memories. This year, we’re planning an informal St. Nicholas party for both families, a delightful way to honor the spirit of giving and joy. Here’s how to prepare for this festive gathering, including a sample email invitation and tips for stocking stuffers.
Step 1: Set the Date and Time
The St. Nicholas celebration is traditionally held on December 6th, making it the ideal date for our gathering. Choose a time that works for both families, perhaps an early evening or late afternoon, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the festivities.
Step 2: Create a Festive Atmosphere
Decorate your space with holiday cheer! Use twinkling lights, festive table settings, and perhaps a St. Nicholas-themed centerpiece. Consider playing holiday music to set the mood and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Step 3: Plan the Menu
For an informal gathering, keep the menu simple and festive. Here are some ideas:
- Appetizers: Cheese platter, vegetable sticks with dip, and mini quiches.
- Main Dishes: A hearty soup with bread rolls.
- Desserts: Gingerbread cookies and a selection of holiday treats.
- Beverages: Hot cocoa, mulled wine, and sparkling cider.
Step 4: Stocking Stuffers and Gifts
For this St. Nicholas party, each family member will bring a stocking and a selection of stocking stuffers to fill them. Here’s how to organize it:
- Budget: Set a budget of around $10-$15 per person for stocking stuffers. This keeps it affordable and fun!
- Number of Gifts: Aim for 3-5 small gifts per stocking. These can include:
- Fun-sized candies or chocolates
- Small toys or games
- Holiday-themed items (ornaments, decorations)
- Personal care items (lip balm, hand cream)
- Gift cards to local coffee shops or stores
- Opening Stockings: Decide whether to open stockings during the party or save them for later. Opening them together can be a fun activity, allowing everyone to share in the excitement!
Step 5: Arranging the Party
Depending on the size of your gathering, you can adapt the party to be either small or large:
- Small Party Version:
- Limit the guest list to immediate family members.
- Focus on a cozy atmosphere with intimate seating arrangements.
- Prepare a simple menu and encourage everyone to bring a single stocking and a few stocking stuffers.
- Big Party Version:
- Invite extended family members and friends.
- Set up multiple tables for food and seating to accommodate everyone.
- Consider a potluck-style meal where each family brings a dish to share.
- Create a festive photo booth area for fun family pictures.
Step 6: Send Out Invitations
Once you have the details sorted, it’s time to send out invitations. Below is a sample email invitation you can customize and send to both families.
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Sample Email Invitation
Subject: You’re Invited to Our St. Nicholas Party!
Dear Family,
I hope this message finds you well! I am excited to invite you to a special St. Nicholas party to celebrate the holiday season together. Let’s gather for an evening of fun, food, and festive cheer!
Date: December 6th
Time: [Insert Time]
Location: [Your Address]
What to Bring:
- Each family member is asked to bring a stocking and a selection of stocking stuffers (budget of $10-$15 per person). Let’s fill each other’s stockings with joy and surprises!
We’ll enjoy a delicious meal together, so feel free to bring your favorite dish to share if you’d like.
Please RSVP by [Insert RSVP Date] so I can plan accordingly. I can’t wait to celebrate this wonderful tradition with all of you!
Warm wishes,
[Your Name]
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Planning an informal St. Nicholas party is a wonderful way to bring families together and celebrate the spirit of giving. By keeping things simple and focusing on creating a warm atmosphere, you can ensure that everyone has a delightful time. Enjoy the laughter, the joy of sharing, and the magic of the holiday season!
Happy planning, and may your St. Nicholas party be filled with love and cheer!
