Celebrate Outside of the Box

Don't get us wrong: There are few things we enjoy more than celebrating the season with a fancy dinner party. But given the number of mistletoe soirees that dot our calendars from November through to early January, we also welcome festive gatherings of a different sort. To that end, we've rounded up a half-dozen refreshingly different party ideas. From an intimate guest list of a few to a roomful of your best friends, these gatherings are easy to host and sure to please.


Continental Breakfast
Invite guests for an early-morning event, followed by shopping or gift-wrapping. For your breakfast fixings, keep in mind that just a few fresh ingredients—such as berries, juice and scones—will uplift any traditional egg menu.


Holiday Brunch
We prefer to serve eggs for brunch, but of course the great thing about this hybrid meal is that you can also prepare lunch-type dishes. If you're egg-inclined, like us, we recommend serving made-to-order omelets for a small group, while a breakfast casserole is a no-fuss way to serve a crowd. If you're partial to a luncheon menu, try fresh baguettes with a selection of cheeses, salad greens and cured meats.


Afternoon Tea
We typically associate afternoon tea with spring-like weather and gardens, but it's also a cozy way to warm up a winter afternoon. Be sure to include a mix of caffeinated black and green teas (such as Earl Grey and Sencha) and herbal, non-caffeinated teas (such as Chamomile and Peppermint) and, for a traditional British touch, provide warm milk, sugar and honey for those who like to fortify their hot drinks. A mix of savory finger sandwiches and sweet petit fours is a must.


After Hours
Keep the party going: Host a late-evening dessert and champagne gathering complete with chocolate-dipped strawberries, fruit tarts, cheesecake, and a selection of nuts, crackers and cheese.


Cookie Exchange
Ask your guests to make two or three dozen of their favorite cookie. Provide a simple meal, such as soup and sandwiches, and then sample and swap the assortment of cookies.


Cookie Decorating
This can be a fun gathering that delights young and old alike. Pre-bake a dozen or more sugar cookies (figure four or five cookies per guest). Prepare a selection of colored frostings and toppings (nuts, sprinkles, gum drops…name your favorite cookie decoration here). And let your guests do the decorating. In keeping with the generous spirit of the season, donate several dozen to your local homeless shelter or church.





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