How to plan a Christmas party

This year, I have the wonderful task of planning our Christmas party amongst friends. It's not easy but I figured I would give you some inspiring tips on how to be merry and sparkly for your get-together.

Tip 1: Set a date that WORKS

If you're a student, you know that finals are a stressful time. Like it or not, it puts a damper on the weeks leading up to Christmas so try and plan your party when everyone is exam-free! Make sure it's a weekend night so no one has to go into work the next day! This way, everyone will be in a good mood and you can start your holiday season on the right foot!

Tip 2: Build an appropriate menu; who brings what?

It's always a good idea to do a potluck! Or at least make sure that everyone brings something! This will save you a whole lot of a time in preparation and its more fun to cook all together! Figure out your menu so it resembles a Christmas one! Now, I know that we don't have time to cook a turkey or bake truck loads of pies but something like a fondue is nice! It can last hours and you can spend the time talking and not preparing!

Tip 3: Organize fun games

A Chinese gift exchange is the best bet! Everyone brings a neutral present and you get to steal it from each other before unwrapping it! Always good fun! If its a smaller group of friends, a secret santa is probably best! It's much more personal! Afterwards you could play a board game! Its super nerdy but how else do you expect to appreciate your friends other than staying up super late and having a good time doing something different! Monopoly would do nicely.

Tip 4: Ultimate Christmas Playlists

Pick the good ones! The typical Christmas songs! Im talking Mariah Carey, Britney Spears and Nsync 90's Christmas music! I can't imagine listening to anything else! Make a playlist on your Ipod and let it play! It'll set the mood and after long hours of studying, it will finaly start to feel like Christmas.

Tip 5: Decorations & Themes

Make sure you have a general theme for your evening. Whether its an ugly sweater, christmas pyjama or fancy pants party, make sure its clear. Because there is bound to be some one taking pictures and you dont want anyone to look out of place. For their sake at least. I know it sucks when you come from hot yoga to a gathering and everyone is purdy and wants to take pics when you look like trash. -_- not cool!
As for decoration, look at the room your going to host the party and try and pick colors that will match. Lets say your kitchen is where you're hosting and theres a lot of light blue accents, then decorate with snowflakes! If theres red or green accents.. well you know where im going with this! There are amazing ideas on Pinterest for DIY decorations! Individualize your party!

Tip 6: HAVE FUN! That is all! :)

This is the time to enjoy good company, eat good food, and laugh a whole lot!

How to be green this Christmas

Tip 1: No need for paper cards
It's always nice to receive Holiday cards in the mail but this year you can save money and the environment by opting out. Sending an e-card via email could do the trick. If you absolutely need to send out a card, maybe look for eco-friendly cards. Maybe you can reuse paper or old cards that you currently have. People will be grateful no matter what.

Tip 2: Reuse last years wrapping
This year, look through your old gift bags and wrapping paper to reuse it. You could even go as far as wrapping it in newspaper with a cute ribbon for your vintage-loving friends (I can think of one!). If you must buy some, make a mental note to keep for next year or recycle the paper that cannot be reused.

Tip 3: Setting the mood
Turning off the lights is a big money saver. It will set the mood if you use candles, the fireplace or your Christmas tree light to keep things bright. Replace your incandescent light bulbs with CFL's. Those are 75% more efficient! You can't go wrong.

Tip 4: Check the list twice
Stick to your list! Don't go out and buy more than you need. It's so easy to get caught up in the madness at the mall so make sure to review your list constantly. You could even check out local second hand shops for fun and unique gifts. Look out for eco-friendly gifts that contain recycled packaging. As for those difficult friends who seem to have everything, maybe make a donation in their name to a charity?

Tip 5: Shop locally
Shopping locally can give you creative ideas that you wont find in the typical stores. Plus, you saved emission because you didn't need to have it shipped across the world. Its from right here!

Tip 6: The gift of giving
Giving a gift doesn't have to be concrete. Volunteering in the community will give you a sense of happiness. You could even look through your closet and gather some items to donate to those who are less fortunate. Warm items are the best!

Tip 7: A must have this winter
Mark this bad boy on your list: a travel mug. You could even buy it for a friend. It will save the environment! Think of how many cups of coffee or tea you have during the winter! Wonder where they are now? Probably in a landfill. This is an ongoing issue in the world and this is where it starts.