I am having a Christmas Party Christmas night. My family and I all bring something no matter who's house we are going to. I've invited all my family to come Christmas at 5 to exchange gifts and eat apps and desserts. We usually casually coordinate. "Hey what are you bringing Christmas" texts to each other. But, I've invited the whole rest of the world to come Christmas night at 730 or 8 for cocktails, and what not. It would great if people would bring a bottle, some beer, an appetizer, a dessert, to share. Not necessary, just appreciated. So, how do I casually throw that in? It's not as though there are formal invites. I've texted people I know and told my friends and neighbors about the party. Now, Fri or Sat I want to send out a reminder text and I'd like to encourage graciously people to contribute if they want. I dont want to run short or overspend.
In the text (which I might do sooner rather than later) just say:
"Desserts, apps, or drinks for sharing are welcome!"
K, so we should be there 8ish, with a mag of champagne and a fruit/bread/cheese plate? And dress is casual or cocktail? I hope you don't mind, but we come with 4 teenagers!
:)
Send it asap, as I am the type to avoid the grocery store the days before Christmas. Perhaps a simple "Dec 25th, my house, place to be. Bring desserts, apps, or BYOB!" (It rhymes).
If I got such text, I'd know that anything's game. I'd likely bring a bottle of wine and some salsa or chips or make cookies. If kids are invited, make sure people know. If my kid were coming, I'd bring some juice boxes to share too.
Happy Holidays, it's the time of year to share joy and cheer! To continue in the sharing spirit I encourage you all to share your favorite holiday foods or drinks with everyone at the holiday party! I look forward to seeing you - T. K!
There is a version of a text or email you can send!
"Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday night! Please feel free to bring your favorite appetizer or drinks to share!"
Most people will bring something- just make sure you have some foods on the table to get the party started. You may get a lot of "bottles", so have enough "foods" to balance!
Just send out a note to everyone that says "looking forward to seeing you on Christmas. Please bring an appetizer or dessert to pass"
When you send out a reminder add that although you'll have food and drink they're welcome to bring drinks or appetizers.
You should have said, "It's potluck, can I put you down for a drink or a dish? Or please bring something to share." Otherwise, you are out of luck.
You could still send an evite, and there is an option on there to ask people to bring something.
95% of holiday parties at people's houses are potluck. People usually just state or ask politely to please bring a dish and/or beverage of your choice. If an evite or email you have more room to state what you know you are going to have, then leave the rest up to the guest.
I would surely let them know now so they can budget for the expense. If I were to get a text this late I would have a hard time coming up with money to get something worth sharing at a holiday party. Let them know now. Then a few days before send a reminder text.
This is what we did for our Solstice Party:
"Snack-Luck Solstice~ bring a snack to share and your favorite beverage of choice to quaff and come enjoy ....." People always bring good food to these things. I usually have a stew or main dish to serve smaller portions of and a couple things on the table.. the table fills up fast!
