Holidays are just around the corner and more families are looking into celebrating face-to-face. And while “COVID-friendly” parties can be done, hosting one can be very daunting—even for the party diva of a mother.
Planning to throw a party but tempted to just throw in a towel instead? We feel you, mama—we’re here to help! Ahead, a list of tips, trends, and essentials that will take your party planning ride from pressure to pleasure—even in a pandemic. You can even use this list as your guide on what to gift yourself this Christmas season.
1. Guest list
Three words, mama:keep it small. Steering clear from big crowds or people outside your quarantine bubble is key. Furthermore, encourage guests to get vaccinated and make it clear that they must stay home if they feel sick.
2. Venue
Outdoor is in. Choosing an open space that allows enough room for proper social distancing is ideal. But if you must really take the party inside, then you should consider taking safety measures up a notch with an Air Purifier and a Disinfecting mat.
3. Party Menu
And the new protocol. Opt out of formal dishware and go disposable all the way from plates, cups, and cutlery. Aside from being more sanitary, having less dishes to wash is a welcome bonus. You’ll also want to refrain from doing any buffet lines and family-styled meals or snacks. Think out of the box and go for Bento-go’s themed food boxes or a mobile specialty bar like The Roast Beef Counter.
Tip: You can also create mini hors-d'oeuvre kits by taking items from larger Food Baskets and Snack Packs. Oh, and don’t forget to label them with each guest’s name for a personal touch!
4. Sweet Treats
Simply because no party is ever complete without them. For dessert that won’t disappoint, Gelato Manila Flavors can deliver your favorite homemade gelatos in pint-sized cups while The Artsy Baker can customize individually packed sugar cookies that are not only delicious and but can double as a party souvenir.
5. Cake
And not just the icing on top. Blowing out birthday candles may be off the table but the cake will always be a party staple. And if you’re looking for bakers that can bring in both taste and design, you can check out 2J's Cupcakery and Princess Delan's Food Services.
6. Styling
DIY decorations are an easy way to make a big impact without breaking your budget. But if you need the styling experts to safely step in, professional crew from Party Time Philippines and Passion Cooks are more than willing.
7. Music
Because every good party needs a great playlist. Any good Bluetooth speaker can do the job but this one from Jam deserves a special mention.
8. Entertainment
You can put a limit on the head count but not on the fun. Being with all your favorite people in one space is entertaining enough already but if you want to go a little extra, we propose a DIY outdoor movie theater—no tickets required as long as your guests sit 6 feet apart. And comfortably on a picnic mat. And how about some edutainment for the little ones? Just because learning is fun and party entertainment can be educational!
9. Safety
The new soul of the party. It’s definitely better to be safe than sorry and providing masks upfront is what we suggest. Washable ones like these from Kindee and Biofresh are packed individually so your guests can take them home after the party. Finally, consider buying an automatic dispenser for your trusted brand of disinfectant—a well and worthy investment that can make any party a clear (and clean) winner.
10. Gifts
Need we say more? Visit edamama's Ultimate Gift Guide or create a Gift Registry for a super fun and generous gift-giving season!
Photos courtesy of merchants' Facebook pages: Bento-go, The Roast Beef Counter, Gelato Manila Flavors, The Artsy Baker, 2J's Cupcakery, Princess Delan's Food Services, Party Time Philippines, Passion Cooks, and Nutty Scientists
We're with you as you unwrap the holidays one gift at a time. Find the best gift ideas for everyone on your list at the edamama Ultimate Gift Guide.
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