It’s that time of the year again! Right now, it’s late-summer 2022, and holiday party dates are booking fast. Again! If you’re an event or party planner, marketing or human resources pro, or you’re simply looking to level-up the holiday cheer, then consider this your friendly reminder that the time is now to get a date on the books.
Last year, we not only gave you the heads-up, we also gave you our 5 favorite party-planning tips:
- Surprise with ethnic foods.
- Indulge with a signature cocktail.
- Brighten with non-traditional colors.
- Party with a purpose.
- Be remembered with the perfect party favors.
Another timeless set of reminders are our 4 best tips to ensure your holiday party is amazing:
- Think outside the box when choosing a date.
- Tell everyone once the date is set.
- Consider small bites instead of a sit-down meal.
- Use a professional event planner to relieve your stress.

Photo by Robert Ryan Catering & Design
This year, not only are we sounding the “book now” alarm, but we’re also considering parties in the COVID endemic stage. Yes, it’s a buzzkill, but it is a new new normal, and we’ve got your back. So, let’s go back to basics, with a twist:
Contact Venues Now
Have we mentioned … start looking at dates?! Depending on your invitees, consider a spot that will still leave plenty of room for safely socializing. Remember, tented, heated venues are still an option!

Photo by Robert Ryan Catering & Design
Be Flexible on the Date
Great holiday parties aren’t only weekend events — plus, weekends book the fastest and are the most costly. Consider a brunch or a weeknight event as a worthy and budget-saving option.
Communicate!
Spread the word as soon as you book the date so the event is on everyone’s calendar. Key, as we are now navigating the endemic stage, is a slightly early RSVP date. That way, anyone who has lingering COVID concerns can reach out to you to discuss, enabling you to lock in a headcount in time.

Photo by Juliana Laury Photography
Think Outside the Box
There are still people out there who are nervous about where we are in the pandemic, so implementing a few courtesies will help make them comfortable and the event even more of a success. Know which of your attendees are immunocompromised, caretake for others who are simply cautious, and make sure they know that they’re free to mask.
Need help? That’s an event planner’s specialty! Reach out with your interest, concerns, wish list, budget and more, and let an experienced professional counsel and guide you. Now that’s a stress-free way to go! But remember — hurry, before the best dates are gone.
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Ready to learn more about our menus and events? Schedule a consultation with one of our event managers today!
Robert Ryan Catering and Design plans and executes over 400 events each year, boasts a five-star rating on WeddingWire and has received WeddingWire’s Couple’s Choice/Bride’s Choice Award seven years in a row. Learn more about Robert Ryan Catering & Design and tour our venues. Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive offers, up-to-date news and recipes from our executive chef.
Featured photo by Emily Wren Photography