'Tis the season of chunky sweaters, unapolegtic eating, and endless holiday parties. From traditional family gatherings to crazy corporate events, how do you make your holiday party stand out from the crowd as a truly enjoyable time? The winning trifecta for all postively perfect parties is menu, music, and decor. We recently collaborated with Cocktail Academy and Daily Dose Cafe on A Holiday Tasting embodying all of these things that will knock your socks off. Ever wonder where to begin when it comes to prepping for your holiday gathering? This guide sums up all you need so you won't miss a single beat during the flurry of winter holidays. Speaking of beat, we've also got a festive playlist that will make your soiree a rockin' good time.

Photography by Scott Clark

Choose Your Theme

Every good party has been created with a little bit of inspiration and help from our visual friends, Pinterest and/or Instagram. Take the time to scout, get creative and after that's done here's three elements to make sure you don't miss: 

- Plan your tablescape around your chosen theme
- Dress up your drink station/bar
- Create a Photobooth moment 

Create Your Food + Drink Menu

Build out your menu around the theme of your evening. Remember, this is a tasting! Don't stress over quantity. Focus on quality. 

- Select your favorite dishes to share
- Align your cocktails with each plate
- Indulge in your perfect pairings with friends! It's just that easy. 

Make A Playlist

Kick your shindig into high gear with a unique playlist that will have your friends rockin' around the Christmas tree. Now, the perfect holiday playlist consists of a combination of holiday classics, remakes, and let's be real, a whole LOT of dance party favorites. Here's a few tunes to add to your list in order of arrival to the third round of eggnog...

"Rockin Around The Christmas Tree," Brenda Lee
"Wonderful Christmastime," Paul McCartney
"Step Into Christmas," Elton John
"Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)," Darlene Love
"Jingle Bell Rock," Bobby Helms
​"Alone On Christmas Day," Phoenix
"White Winter Hymnal," Fleet Foxes 
"Just Like Christmas," Low
"Christmas Is Going To The Dogs," Eels
"I Wish It Was Christmas Today," Julian Casablances
"Wonderful Christmastime," The Shins (Because both versions are rad. Duh!) 
"Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays," *NSYNC
“All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Mariah Carey
"Sleigh Ride," TLC
"My Only Wish (This Year)," Britney Spears
"Drummer Boy," Justin Bieber

Photography: Scott Clark | Venue: Daily Dose Cafe | Cocktails: Cocktail Academy| Paper: Everthine Designs