As the holiday season approaches, many of us are inspired to host gatherings that bring warmth and joy to our loved ones. With traditions steeped in nostalgia and an eye towards sustainability, the modern holiday party is evolving. To delve deeper into how these elements come together to create a memorable celebration, I sat down with Joanna Benson, a seasoned event planner who has mastered the art of holiday hosting. Here’s what I learned from our conversation, which is brimming with practical tips and thoughtful insights.
1. Multipurpose for the Future
Joanna is a strong advocate for sustainability in party planning, a trend that’s gaining momentum. “This year, it’s all about sustainability,” she enthused, as she recounted her approach to decorations. Instead of traditional plastic trees, Joanna suggests exploring creative alternatives like paper floor trees or chic LED-light pine trees. “I have a pink tree at home,” she confessed, “It’s all about finding that pop of personality, which makes the decorations feel special and reusable for years to come.”
2. Rethink the ‘Boxed’ Meal
The concept of presenting festive fare in a novel way is another highlight of Joanna’s approach. She shared a delightful idea of serving meals in stylish boxes with magnetic lids. “It’s like a gift for your guests to open,” Joanna explained, her eyes lighting up at the thought. Each box can feature a different dish, with the name printed on top, adding an element of surprise and sophistication to the dining experience. “It’s practical and festive—perfect for the season.”
3. Make Your Holiday Party Picture Perfect
Nostalgia plays a significant role in Joanna’s holiday parties. “People are craving connections to the past,” she said, recommending that hosts dig out old family photos. Joanna finds that framing vintage photos or displaying cherished family pictures with Santa adds a personal touch. “It’s not just about the aesthetics; it’s about sparking conversations and memories among guests.”
4. Minimalist is Chic
Joanna’s philosophy of ‘less is more’ is evident in her minimalist decor style. “Minimalism and sophistication go hand in hand,” she noted. She prefers a palette of metallics and whites, using faux evergreen creatively to adorn mantels or spell out festive words. “It’s about creating a serene, elegant space that feels both modern and warm.”
5. Rethink How You Plate (or Pour)
For Joanna, repurposing old treasures is both environmentally friendly and charming. She advises against buying new plastic serving pieces, suggesting instead the use of antique glasses or family china. “There’s something very special about serving dessert in a cordial glass,” she mused. “It brings history to the table, making the event feel intimate and cherished.”
6. Light Up Your Space
Lighting is a simple yet transformative tool in Joanna’s party toolkit. “It’s all about setting the mood,” she said. Joanna uses patio lights or colourful uplights to give her space a festive glow. Whether aiming for a modern or cosy vibe, the right lighting can make a room feel magical.
7. Bring It Back to Family
Ultimately, Joanna believes the heart of any holiday party lies in the connections we foster. “The past few years have taught us the importance of family,” she reflected. To bring this sentiment to life, Joanna suggests activities like setting up a gift-wrapping station for children. “Let them paint kraft paper and decorate it with stickers or crafts,” she offered. “It’s a wonderful way to involve the whole family and create lasting memories.”
Joanna Benson’s insights illuminate the art of holiday hosting, blending tradition with innovation. Her focus on sustainability, nostalgia, and family ensures that each gathering is not only beautiful but deeply meaningful. As we embrace the season, these tips remind us of the joy in creating special moments with those we love.
Salena Ripley
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