There’s nothing like having people over at your house for the holidays and making long-lasting memories. But as any host knows, planning a holiday party can be stressful. You have to add shopping, cooking, cleaning, and setting up tables and chairs to your already busy schedule. With so many things to keep track of, you might wonder if you can pull this off. If you want to host a holiday party but just don’t have time to put it all together, consider hosting your party at a restaurant.
Instead of worrying about what’s happening behind the scenes, you can spend more time attending to your guests and enjoying yourself. You won’t have to spend hours cooking, setting up tables and chairs, or cleaning up because the restaurant does it for you. Follow our steps to hosting a holiday party at a restaurant so you can throw a party your family and friends will never forget.
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
First things first, how much money can you spend? Understanding your budget helps to have a better idea of the type of party you can host. If your budget is tight, consider a less formal event like a brunch party. However, if you have a lot of money to spend, you can throw a large upscale event with an open bar. Once you have a concrete number, you can start looking at restaurants in your price range.
Step 2: Choose The Perfect Venue
Selecting the right venue sets the stage for a memorable holiday party. Here's a closer look at how to find the perfect restaurant for your celebration.
Factors to Consider
When scouting for a restaurant, consider the following factors:
- Capacity: Begin by determining the number of guests attending your holiday party. Choose a restaurant with enough seating to accommodate everyone comfortably. This ensures that your guests can mingle and enjoy the festivities without feeling cramped.
- Ambiance: The ambiance of the restaurant sets the tone for your event. Whether you're envisioning a cozy, intimate gathering or a lively, upbeat celebration, look for a venue that aligns with the mood you want to create.
- Menu Options: Check the restaurant's holiday menu options. Ensure there's a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some restaurants even offer customizable menus for special events, allowing you to tailor the food to your liking.
The easiest way to begin researching restaurants is through the internet. Many establishments have an events page that shows what services they offer. Look for restaurants that have what you need, such as a bar if you’re planning on serving alcohol.
As much information is available on the internet, things like pricing, square footage, and floor layout are found by contacting the restaurant. Get in touch with the event coordinator and ask if they provide everything you need for your party.
Important questions you want to ask are:
- What is the rental fee?
- What is the floor layout?
- What is the cost per person?
- Is entertainment available?
- Is the event space private, or will it be shared?
- Is there a minimum number of guests required?
- How many square feet does the event space have?
Step 3: Book Early For A Seamless Experience
Securing the ideal venue for your holiday party is just the beginning; the next crucial step is to book it early. The holiday season is a bustling time for restaurants, with popular spots becoming coveted destinations for celebrations. Waiting until the last minute could lead to disappointment as these sought-after venues tend to fill up rapidly. By taking proactive measures and locking in your reservation well in advance, you not only guarantee your spot at the restaurant of your choice but also set the foundation for a seamless and stress-free experience.
Early booking enables you to communicate your preferences and requirements to the restaurant staff in advance, ensuring they can prepare for your event effectively. Moreover, it provides you with ample time to coordinate with the venue on details like menu customization, seating arrangements, and any special requests you may have. By acting promptly and reserving your spot early on, you pave the way for a holiday party that unfolds smoothly and meets all your expectations.
Step 4: Add A Festive Touch
When decorating for your holiday party at a restaurant, the mantra is clear: less is more. Most restaurants already have a festive ambiance during the holiday season, adorned with seasonal supplies that set the mood. To make the restaurant feel like your own, consider bringing in Christmas supplies like themed picks, napkins, and coffee cups to add a touch of your style. These items can emphasize the festive vibe while reflecting your personal taste. For example, use Christmas-themed picks for appetizers or desserts, holiday napkins to complement the table setting, and festive coffee cups for serving hot beverages. These little additions turn the restaurant into a cozy space, making it feel warm and welcoming for you and your guests to enjoy the holiday festivities.
Step 5: Send Out Invitations
As soon as you’ve booked the date with a restaurant, send out invitations. The sooner, the better because you want to give guests enough time to clear their schedules for your event. Corporate holiday events and casual event invitations can be sent through email. For formal events, it is traditional to send invites through the mail. You can word your invitations like this:
Step 6: Choose Or Curate Your Menu
Holiday parties at restaurants are centered around food, which is why your dishes should be appropriate to the celebration. Some restaurants offer a special holiday menu, while others provide a prix fixe menu. Restaurants might also offer to curate a menu with you for your event. Many establishments invite you to sample their best dishes to help you decide which meals to serve.
When selecting food, make sure you are aware of any food allergies or dietary restrictions guests have and let the chef know. You don’t want to endanger the health of your guests or put them in an awkward position where they are not able to enjoy the food options available.
If a restaurant does not offer holiday-appropriate food, ask if you can bring some of your own. When it comes to events, establishments are open to customers bringing one or two food items, especially if it’s for a holiday.
You should also consider having a cocktail hour before the main event begins. This is a great way for guests to get to know each other, and it gives late arrivals time to get to the restaurant before the main event begins.
Step 7: Plan Engaging Activities
Injecting a dose of festive fun into your restaurant holiday party is a surefire way to keep the holiday spirit alive. Consider planning simple yet engaging activities that cater to the preferences and dynamics of your group. These activities add a layer of entertainment and encourage interaction and laughter among your guests.
Games are a fantastic option—think about timeless classics like holiday-themed trivia or a lively round of charades. A gift exchange is another delightful option to infuse a sense of anticipation and generosity into the celebration. Whether it's a traditional Secret Santa or a quirky White Elephant exchange, this activity brings an element of surprise and shared enjoyment to the festivities. By incorporating these simple yet delightful activities, you create an inclusive and spirited atmosphere that enhances the overall joy of your restaurant holiday party.
Step 8: Visit The Restaurant
Before committing to a restaurant for your holiday party, visiting the venue in person is crucial. This hands-on approach allows you to assess the layout, soak in the ambiance, and grasp the overall feel of the space. Take note of the seating arrangements, the general atmosphere, and any existing holiday decorations that may add to the festive vibe. Moreover, engaging in a conversation with the restaurant staff is essential to ensure they can cater to your specific needs. Discussing details like menu customization, accommodating large groups, and any special requests you may have ensures that the chosen venue aligns seamlessly with your vision, guaranteeing a tailored and stress-free experience for your holiday celebration.
Step 9: Pay Your Bill
It’s best to pay your bill ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy the party without having your debt in the back of your mind. Remember that you may be charged for any incidents, such as broken dishware or damage to the property, if a few guests get too rowdy. Some hosts prefer to pay on the day of the party in case they are not satisfied with the service or if the restaurant cancels the event. Unless there was a prior agreement, consider covering the cost of the event. Similar to hosting in your own home, it’s likely you wouldn’t charge guests for attending the celebration.
Craft Unforgettable Memories
Hosting a holiday party at a restaurant can be a stress-free and joyous experience when approached thoughtfully. From choosing the perfect venue to making the payments early for a seamless celebration, each step contributes to creating lasting memories. By taking the time to plan and personalize your event, you pave the way for a festive gathering that not only captures the spirit of the season but also allows you to savor every moment with friends and family. So, whether it's a cozy, intimate affair or a lively celebration, let the restaurant serve as the canvas for your holiday memories, making it a season to remember with simplicity, warmth, and shared joy. Cheers to an unforgettable holiday party!
