If there’s anything the East of Ellie team can do, its producing an event in a tight turnaround time without compromising quality.

We know there are plenty of you out there RIGHT NOW freaking out because plans have changed, and now the holiday event planning has fallen all on you. Don’t panic! We have your back with some tips on how to lower your stress level, buy yourself more time, and most importantly, get sh!t done.

Delegate where you can

Don’t usually hire a cleaner? Now’s the time. Need someone to pick up the dry cleaning? Someone out there owes you a favor. The point is, you may get caught up thinking YOU need to do it all. You don’t. You’re responsible for making sure everything comes together, but not physically doing it all yourself. This is something event planners constantly remind themselves and how the East of Ellie team works our magic to turn around tight timelines!

Pick up Last Minute Decor

Unless you are the Grinch himself, your home is already sprinkled with some holiday cheer. If you’re looking around thinking it’s just not enough, run out to pick up some holiday decor from the local HomeGoods or Target to spruce up your space on a budget. (P.S. have you seen Chip and Joanna’s Magnolia Collection at Target? We are swooning and inspired.) To make sure everything visually comes together make sure you buy in the same color palette. This is super important to make your event space look aesthetically pleasing! The same color palette means opt for deep reds mixed with hunter greens, or pale greens and stark whites. Our favorite this holiday season? Silver and gold. A timeless combination where you can always add a modern twist. Check out our Pinterest board of favorite looks here.

Project Plan

We know what you’re thinking, “I don’t have time to write down my plan, I just need to put it into action!” We totally feel you here; BUT, just like getting everything done is important, not missing anything is equally as important. In fact, project planning in times of stress is more helpful since your brain will be running at 100 mph when executing your plan. Simply list out your key milestones, deadlines, and back track on how to get them done. For example, a key milestone may be – Get X a gift. Work backwards and list out what needs to be done to complete that action:

• • Set Budget

• • Determine Gift Idea or Store Location

• • Wrap Gift (Don’t forget to leave sometime for this crucial step!)

• Place under tree before 12/24 9 p.m.

You’re good to go! We find project planning has the effect of making you less overwhelmed, since you’re taking everything out of your brain and down on paper (or screen.)

Catering is Key

One of the main components of any event is the food. After all, it’s what brings us all together. Making our way back to point number uno, delegate all or at least some of the cooking duties. If you just absolutely couldn’t have a holiday without your grandmother’s recipe for holiday ham, that’s fine! Outsource the appetizers and sides. Whole Foods has a great holiday meal options that are healthy and delicious!

That’s it! You’ve got this, and with these tips you’ll be planning like a pro. What are some of your tips to help stay organized during the holiday season? We’d love to hear them in the comments below! 

Check out our new homepage video which features events from 2017 in which we used ALL these tips at some point in the planning process. Want to know more? Shoot us a note! rsvp@eastofellie.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!