We know it’s just starting to feel like fall, but now’s the time to plan for the holiday season. Nothing brings people together quite like a thoughtfully planned party (besides maybe watching the season finale of The Summer I Turned Pretty).
Whether you’re coordinating for friends, family, or colleagues, you’re probably well aware that a holiday gathering is more than just food and drinks. You know you’ve got to create an atmosphere that feels festive, welcoming, and memorable. At HudCo, we see the best celebrations come to life in our space each year. And so, we’ve gathered a few tips to help you host one that sparkles. (Photographs by Loredana Nicole)
Set the Scene
Ambiance is everything. Think cozy lighting, seasonal décor, and a playlist that balances holiday classics with upbeat favorites. There’s some great local DJs who can really bring the vibes. Try DJ RX (Liz, a HudCo member), Dirty Preston and Clean Erika of All My Friends (local to NJ, but we’re just huge fans), or Stolen Moments Entertainment.
Candles (we strongly suggest the Floral Society’s line), string lights, and natural touches like evergreen sprigs or citrus centerpieces go a long way in creating warmth. And you can NEVER go wrong with flowers, as we’re sure Adonia Floral Design, Lemon Terrace Florals, and Cape Lily agree!
Keep the Menu Simple but Special
Food and drink don’t need to be complicated to impress. Offer a mix of festive bites—like charcuterie boards (Bloomy Cheese & Provisions, perhaps?), spiced nuts, or holiday cookies (Wildly Cakes could surely nail it for you). Do this alongside one signature cocktail or mocktail (Clink with Colleen has great ones). Bonus points if it ties into your theme, like a cranberry spritz or mulled cider.
You can even keep it simple and work with one vendor who can do it all: On the Marc is a full-service caterer who has often worked at HudCo.
Make It Interactive
The best parties encourage mingling. Think about adding a hands-on element, like a DIY cookie-decorating station, photo booth, or a holiday game. It breaks the ice and gives guests something fun to do together. Analog on Hudson has a 1940s large format camera to capture beautiful physical memories for all who attend. Also, Creative Crafting by Cynthia builds incredible, festive backdrops.
Add a Personal Touch
It’s the little details that guests remember: handwritten place cards, a themed playlist, or a takeaway favor like a mini ornament or bag of local coffee. These small touches show thoughtfulness and make your party feel unique. You can rent shelving for a champagne wall or party favors from businesses like Seven Wonders.
Don’t Forget the Flow
Design your space so guests can move easily from one area to another—seating here, bar there, food spread within reach. Elite/PBS rentals offer a huge variety of tables, chairs, and other furnishings to create the right mix. A well-planned flow avoids crowding and helps conversations spark naturally. At HudCo we also have the option of a second mobile bar in addition to our gorgeous front bar to help ensure there’s always space to grab a drink.
Celebrate the Community
Above all, a holiday party is about people. Create moments that encourage connection, like a group toast, a gratitude circle, or even highlighting local vendors and makers in your menu and décor. When you weave in a sense of community, the celebration feels bigger than the event itself.
Whether you’re planning something intimate or a full-on holiday bash, remember: the best parties are the ones where people leave feeling lighter, happier, and more connected.