How do you throw a holiday soiree in a small space? Design editor Christine Hanlon whipped up a petite party that had a grand impact on guests.


Cocktail party invites Christine printed invites on inexpensive card stock from Grand & Toy (designed by former Style at Home associate art director Melissa Geurts). Blue, white and silver announce the party's palette.

Ribbon and ornaments are casually strewn among pretty wrapped presents for a festive yet unstudied look that just hints at the holidays.

 

Make an entrance Keep your entryway uncluttered. Your entryway is your party's first impression, so it's worthy of special attention. Coats, hats, scarves and boots should be stored out of sight. If you lack room in your closet (which most small spaces do), set up a rack and extra shoe mats in a bedroom.

Display take-home goodies, like swag bags, cookies and candies for guests to grab on their way out the door. After all, parting is a sweet sorrow eased by the giving of presents!

 

Set the bar Repurpose a side table, console or desk as your drinks area. Add a fresh tablecloth and an inexpensive length of fabric used as a runner.

Choose a signature cocktail to serve. It keeps liquor costs down and ups the glam factor -- especially when matched to your theme.

Put out pitchers of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as ice, mixers, napkins and garnishes.

 

Set the table Pick your colour scheme and stick to it -- it will help focus your spending when shopping for snacks, drinks and ornaments.

Opt for buffet-style service and appetizer-size selections so guests can eat with one hand while holding their drink in the other.

A round table is great for conversation and makes this cosy dining area feel roomier than a rectangular table would.

 

Make the party flow Gussy up a a plant for the holidays with lights or ornaments. Anything can be festooned to become part of the decor!

Have icebreaker games ready as a backup to avoid any awkward silences in conversation, especially if your friends don't know each other well. A lull in conversation is all the more apparent in an intimate get-together.

 

Good eats Even the nibblies at your party can suit your theme. Here the shortbread cookies, candy-coated almonds, coconut cake and white chocolate tie-in with the pale palette.

 

Bubbles 'n' Blue cocktail recipe
(from Hypnotiq)

Combine 2 ounces of champagne with 2 ounces of Hypnotiq liqueur. Garnish with blueberries.