How to Host a Holiday Party on 30A

When most of the world is shoveling snow, we are brushing sand off our feet! Yes, the temperatures along the Emerald Coast during December are cool enough to see the seasons and still enjoy a walk on the beach. The Holiday spirit is strong with 30a beach towns lit up with lights and holiday happenings in cozy 30a vacation rentals. Here are 5 simple steps to host the perfect holiday party on 30A! 

The first thing you want to do when planning a holiday party is to pick a date. There are a lot of parties happening this time of year as well as travel so picking a date that’s convenient for most might be more difficult than you think. Keep an open mind. If Friday and Saturday nights are taken, why not host a holiday party on Sunday afternoon? Nothing says your holiday party must happen before Christmas. Why not spice up the lull between Christmas and New Year’s with a party in between? Whatever date you choose, make sure to get the invitations out early! 

You picked a date and now it’s time to make a guest list. Decide how many people you can comfortably host in your 30a rental. Remember that not everyone on your list will be able to attend so you can be a little more generous with the amount of people you invite. Whether you use paper or email invitations, make sure to include RSVP so you can be prepared! 

Now for the fun part, planning the décor. It’s a holiday party on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The décor should be festive yet coastal. Tasteful twinkling lights, beach themed Christmas décor and gifts wrapped in burlap create an ambiance that says coastal Christmas. Hang a festive wreath on the door to welcome guests to the party! 

A successful holiday party must include delicious food. Decide whether this will be a formal sit-down dinner or casual buffet style. Perhaps you’d like to keep it simple with appetizers and tapas. Plan your menu to include a variety of dietary options as well as holiday favorites. Remember that presentation can entice the palate so get creative with your food display. 

Last but never least is holiday drinks. Along with the basics such as wine and beer as well as a non-acholic option for those who don’t drink, stir things up with a specialty drink. You can find many drink recipes with winter flavors that will put you in the holiday spirit. Here’s one of our favorites! 

Christmas Cranberry Martinis 

Put 1.5 fluid ounce of vodka, ½ fluid ounce of orange liqueur, ½ fluid ounce of dry vermouth, 3 fluid ounces of cranberry juice and 1 cup of ice in a martini shaker and shake vigorously. Pour into martini glasses and garnish with cranberries. Serve at your 30a holiday party! 

Published on Monday, December 11, 2017