Planning is the key to a successful event. I start my Christmas day/party planning about 2 to 3 months in advance. It is recommended that you consider the following as part of your planning process:
Set the date and time. Christmas is a busy time of year, and the more notice you give potential guests, the easier it will be to set a date.
Where are you holding the function?
- Your house
- In doors
- Outside
- At the park
- At a hired venue? If you are intending on using an external venue, be sure to book it nice and early.
What type of function are you having?
- A cocktail party
- Sit down dinner or lunch,
- Casual lunch
- BBQ, or
- something else?
How many guests are you inviting?
- Are children coming?
- Does anyone have special dietary requirements?
- Does anyone need any special crockery, cutlery or drinking containers?
- Do you need to consider access for the elderly or guests with disabilities?
- Will everyone be there at the same time?
- Will everyone be staying for a meal?
- Do you have to accommodate people overnight?
What type of catering are you looking at?
- Catering provided by the function hall/centre
- Catering provided by a specialist company
- Self catering
- Guests to bring a plate?
And will it be:
- A full meal, with three courses
- A light meal
- Canapés/finger foods
- Alcohol provided or BYO (Bring Your Own for non Australians and New Zealanders)?
Plenty to think about, and this is even before you start on the preparations.
Cracker of A Christmas 