It’s October in San Diego, and most people are scrolling Amazon for their costumes, carving pumpkins for their front stoops, and sipping on pumpkin spice lattes. The holidays may seem far away, with not a holly berry or sleigh bell in sight…unless you’re an Event Planner! It seems like it’s never too early to start planning holiday parties, and if you’re like the RMD Events team, your holiday books have been open since July!
It may be hard to get in the holiday party mindset before the leaves have started changing. And when you do finally sit down to set a date and make a plan, it might feel overwhelming. With over 15 years of experience planning and throwing parties in San Diego’s Gaslamp District, we know what it takes to throw the best event your guests will attend all year! We’ve compiled a list of tips to help take the stress out of party planning and bring back your holiday spirits!
Pick a Date
This may seem like the easy part. That is, until you start reaching out to your guests and find out Laura is out of town this weekend, and Dave has a work thing the that weekend, and Diana still hasn’t gotten back to you at all. The holiday season is a busy time, and there probably won’t be a date and time that works for everyone on your list. Figure out who your VIP guests or key players are (basically, the people your party can’t live without). Then choose a date that works for them. Remember, the sooner you pick a date, the better chance you’ll have securing a venue!
Choose a Venue
Now that you have a date and time, you can start scoping venues. Your event venue is going to depend on the type of party you are hosting and the size of your guest list. Is this an intimate party that you want to host at someone’s home, or a corporate event you want to host at a venue near your office?
When hunting for the perfect venue, it’s best to keep an open mind. A nightclub, bar, or restaurant may be able to transform itself into exactly the event space you need! Consider the vibe you want to create and the personalities of your guests. RMD Events has a wide range of San Diego event spaces to choose from. Side Bar Nightclub and Lounge is the perfect spot for private event goers who are looking for a bit more sparkle and glamour. Rustic Root offers a perfect dining room for a seated dinner as well as a lively rooftop restaurant suited for tray-passed appetizers and cocktails under the stars. Volcano Rabbit’s private dining area offers an ideal place for an intimate dinner with the ability to transform into a dance party with a live DJ.
Come Up With An Inclusive Theme
Not everyone in your group may celebrate Christmas. That’s why throwing an inclusive party is important! Come up with a theme that fits a variety of holidays while still staying festive. Ugly sweaters, snowflakes, hot cocoa, and s’mores, there are lots of ways to celebrate while still making everyone feel included and welcome.
Choose Your Food and Drink Menu Wisely
If you want people to rave about your holiday party, give them delicious food and drinks! Whether you are doing tray-passed apps, food stations, or a formal sit-down dinner, make sure your menu is thoughtfully designed! And don’t forget options for vegetarians, vegans, and food allergies. Find out the food restrictions your guests have BEFORE you plan your menu.
As for the bar, decide whether you want an open or cash bar. If you really want to wow your guests, give them a personalized welcome cocktail when they first arrive! Add special touches like themed cocktails with holiday-inspired flavors!
Hire An Event Planner
Not everyone has the time (or desire) to plan a big holiday event on their own. That’s what party planners are for! Hire an event planner to take care of all the details for you, from setting up sites at venues, to designing the menu and party décor. Leave the planning to them and enjoy your event!
To find out more about RMD Group Events and how we can help plan your holiday party, click here.
To book an event or private party at any RMD Group venue, click here.