The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the opportunity to gather with loved ones and spread the spirit of joy and merriment. As we all know, parties are an essential part of the holiday celebration, and who better to turn to for party planning tips than floral designer and founder of Unwilted, Liz Carter.
With her keen eye for design and passion for creating memorable events, Liz has become a go-to source for all things party planning. In an exclusive interview with ET, Liz reveals her top tips for throwing a festive holiday party that will leave your guests in awe.
First things first, Liz stresses the importance of setting the right ambiance for your party. “As a floral designer, I believe that flowers are a crucial element in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere,” says Liz. She suggests using a mix of fresh blooms and seasonal foliage to decorate your space. “Not only do they add a touch of elegance, but they also create a festive ambiance,” she adds.
When it comes to choosing a color scheme, Liz suggests sticking to traditional holiday colors like red, green, and gold. “These colors evoke a sense of nostalgia and are perfect for the holiday season,” she explains. However, she also encourages hosts to add their personal touch and incorporate their favorite colors into the mix.
Next on Liz’s list of party essentials is the food and drinks. “Nothing brings people together like delicious food and drinks,” she says. Liz recommends serving a mix of traditional holiday dishes and incorporating new and trendy recipes to surprise and delight your guests. “Don’t be afraid to get creative and offer a signature cocktail or a DIY food station,” she advises.
But throwing a party is not just about the decorations and food; it’s also about creating a memorable experience for your guests. Liz suggests incorporating some fun and interactive activities into your party. “You can have a gift-wrapping station or a cookie decorating station, which are perfect for getting everyone in the holiday spirit,” she says.
In today’s world of social media, it’s impossible to ignore the power of a good Instagram-worthy moment. Liz encourages hosts to create a photo-worthy backdrop for their guests to capture and share their memories. “You can never go wrong with a beautiful flower wall or a DIY photo booth,” she says.
As the founder of Unwilted, a floral design company that specializes in sustainable and eco-friendly floral arrangements, Liz also emphasizes the importance of sustainability when planning a party. “You can use recycled or repurposed items for decorations, or you can opt for potted plants instead of cut flowers,” she suggests. These small changes can make a big impact and help reduce our carbon footprint during the holiday season.
Lastly, Liz reminds hosts not to forget the most crucial element of a party – the music! “No party is complete without good music,” she exclaims. Liz recommends creating a holiday-inspired playlist that will keep your guests entertained and in the festive spirit.
As our interview comes to an end, Liz shares one final piece of advice for anyone planning a holiday party, “Remember to enjoy the party yourself. As the host, it’s easy to get caught up in all the details, but don’t forget to have fun and make memories with your guests.”
With Liz’s tips in mind, you’re sure to throw a holiday party that will be talked about for years to come. So bring out the decorations, turn up the music, and get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with your loved ones. Cheers to a happy and festive holiday season from Liz Carter and Unwilted!
