How to host the perfect Christmas party

Be prepared

Preparation is key when it comes to hosting a party. Having an idea of what to serve and how to decorate will help you on the day. If you plan on having a traditional Christmas dinner, then preparing the food the night before will save you a lot of time. Buying pre-cut vegetables and defrosting the turkey the day before will enable you to spend more time with your guests.

Choose your Christmas table decorations

Decorating the table is one of the best parts of hosting a Christmas party. Have fun with your decorations by playing around with different patterns and textures. For a well put together table, pick a colour scheme and stick to it. Decorating the day before will save you time and adding dramatic lighting such as pillar candles will wow your guests as soon as they walk through the door.

Read here for ideas on how to decorate your Christmas table.

Keep your guests entertained

To host the perfect Christmas party this year, think about entertaining your guests. Bring out classic board games such as Monopoly and Trivial Pursuit. Or for a controversial game that's just for adults, try Cards Against Humanity – this one's guaranteed to get a few giggles. Games are a great way to keep your guests occupied for hours on end. For more inspiration, take a look at these top games to play on Christmas Day.

It wouldn't be Christmas Day without music and carolling. Create the best holiday playlist on Spotify or turn on the radio for a day filled with the greatest Christmas songs. This is a sure way to keep your guests entertained and in the Christmas spirit.

Serve up the best food

The crown jewel of any Christmas party is the food and drinks. It's what everybody is looking forward to, which can often feel like a lot of pressure. But with the correct preparation, your guests will love what you serve up.

Alongside your Christmas dinner, why not make some festive cocktails? Mulled wine or mulled cider are traditional Christmas drinks and they'll fill your home with a mouth-watering festive fragrance. Make a big batch of these drinks to keep your guests topped up all day. For those a little younger, serve up some fun Christmas mocktails.

For more inspiration on how to host the perfect Christmas party, read our articles below:

• Where in the home to position your Christmas tree
• Christmas Cooking In Your New Kitchen
• DIY Christmas Decorations: How to make your own Christmas Stocking

Are you looking to find your perfect home this Christmas? Visit Barratt Homes today and search for a development near you.