Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, whatever you’re celebrating this holiday season, the parties don’t plan themselves. This season is bursting with back-to-back events, and if you want yours to stand out with wow-worthy florals, unforgettable décor, and your favorite holiday food, the key is starting early. Whether you’re throwing an elegant corporate bash, a dreamy family feast, or a chic cocktail soirée with friends, this timeline will keep your holiday party plans merry and manageable. Let the event professionals at Flora D’ Amore guide you every step of the way while providing outstanding ambiance, from winter florals to holiday decor.
Why Plan Early?
The holiday season books up fast! Between venues, caterers, and florists, ensuring your top vendors are available for your event means getting ahead and booking them months in advance. Behind the scenes, your vendors are juggling a lot of details, logistics, and prep work, so your early inquiry also gives them ample time to craft something truly special. If the vision for your holiday party includes fresh blooms, standout décor, and an effortlessly elegant vibe, now is the time to lock it all in and start planning your perfect holiday celebration. Trust us, your future self will certainly thank you later.
August/September: Date, Venue, Theme
Three to four months before your event is your golden window for laying the foundation of your holiday party. This is the time to set the date and time, visit venues, and lock in your dream event space. Choose a theme from classic holiday hues to a dazzling winter wonderland or something modern and moody. Then, start looking for entertainment, whether a band, a DJ, or both. If you need sponsors, now is also the time to seek them out.
September/October: Catering, Decor, Florals
Confirming your venue at least two to three months in advance is essential. This allows you to begin hiring additional all-star vendors for catering, florals, decor, and more — AKA, the dream team that will bring your holiday party to life! You’ll want to secure these vendors months in advance while their schedules are still open and they have the flexibility to bring that holiday magic to your event. Give them a clear idea of your vibe, theme, and must-haves so they can start designing. Florists will also need ample time to start sourcing seasonal blooms, so the sooner you chat, the better.
October/November: Guest List, Invitations, Party Timeline
Now that the big pieces are in place, it’s time to plan the rest. With one to two months left of planning, it’s time to finalize the guest list and send out formal invitations. (Have you decided between luxe paper invites or trendy e-vites?) Once you start getting those RSVPs, map out your timeline and confirm any speakers or activities that will take place. This is also a great time to double-check logistics with your vendors and make sure everyone is on the same festive page.
November/December: Vendor Coordination & Final Details
With just weeks away from your much-anticipated holiday party, it’s all about fine-tuning and sorting out last-minute details. Touch base with vendors to confirm arrival times, setup needs, and teardown plans. Run through any A/V needs or equipment tests if you’ve got speeches, slideshows, or any special moments or activities. Add final touches like signage, favors, or custom drink menus to wow your guests. And most importantly—breathe! You’re in the home stretch, and it’s going to be a seamless celebration.
With a little forward planning and assistance from Flora D’ Amore, your holiday party will be set to sleigh! The more time you give yourself to plan, get creative, and sort it all out, the more time you’ll have to enjoy your event. From festive florals to flickering candles, every detail will shine brighter because you gave it time to bloom. So raise a glass, turn up the holiday playlist, and get ready to throw the party of the season.
