With tracking down presents and dashing to parties, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed during the holiday season. But don’t feel like you don’t have to do it all – a low-key dinner party can be more meaningful than any extravagant night out or expensive gift.
Celebrations can still feel special on a budget – it’s all about choosing thoughtful, meaningful touches. Gathering together, sharing home cooked food and the warmth of your laughter. Taking time to slow down, disconnect from the world and reconnect with each other.
Here are some tips to create a holiday meal that will make a little magic, plus memories that will last for years to come.
Sharing is caring
There’s nothing like meals cooked with love. If you’re hosting, consider asking your guests to bring their favourite festive dish. Ask them to write on paper (or a place card) why the dish is special and pop it by the food, or go around the group and share the memory out loud.
Get gaming
To make the dinner feel different from any others, celebrate with seasonal party games using pen and paper. You could also write conversation prompts on paper, with thoughtful questions to help you connect. Think about what you’re grateful for, or what you’re looking forward to in 2023.
Make use of leftovers
Winter is a great time to get creative with what’s in your fridge. Leftover roast veggies make lovely festive side dishes or a warming soup for a starter. If you meal plan, try and coordinate your cooking – buy ingredients you can use throughout the week too.
Pick a paper detail to focus on
Even one simple extra detail can help create a special vibe. Instead of going all out, choose one paper element – such as invitations, menus or place cards – to help set the scene.
Find decor in what you already have
There are beautiful details to be found all around. Gather up candles from the bottom of drawers, to add a festive glow to the room or table. Pick autumnal leaves and branches from the garden or park as a table setting. Consider asking your friends or family members if they have any decorations they could share for the night – most people will be happy to spread the Christmas cheer. Old clothes or sheets could be torn up for a table runner or napkins. Use your imagination and see what you can create.
Add festive cheer
There are a few final touches you can use to make a night feel unique. Try moving around furniture to make the space a little different – combine tables and cover with sheets to make a long dining suite, or create a fort with blankets and pillows. Turn off the big light and gather lamps and fairy lights from other parts of the house to create a twinkling atmosphere. And for a final touch, there’s nothing like the perfect festive playlist.
Ready to start celebrating? Explore our thoughtful paper party details. Searching for a gift for a food-obsessed friend? Check out our gift guide for foodies and hosts.
Start your celebrations
