The holidays are a great time to come together and celebrate, but planning and executing a memorable event can be stressful. Therefore, we created this guide to simplify the process and ensure your party is a success. Whether y’all are 10 or 500, you’re trying to thank the team, celebrate with clients, or foster community within your company, these steps provide a seamless guide to creating a joyful and stress free celebration!

Step 1: Define Your Vision and Goals

The first step in planning a successful holiday party is to identify the purpose of the event

Party Style: What’s the vibe? A formal sit-down dinner, a lively cocktail party, a themed holiday bash, or perhaps an Austin-inspired celebration with a casual BBQ and live music? This will influence your choice of venue, food, and entertainment.

Objectives: Consider the reason for the event. Is it a casual appreciation for your team, a client-focused gathering, or a celebration of your company’s success? Clarifying these objectives will guide your decisions at every stage.

Step 2: Select The Perfect Venue

Austin has a huge range of venues for groups of all sizes. Here’s a few popular options:

Venues for Small Gatherings (20-50 guests): Consider intimate spaces that encourage interaction. Top choices include The Roosevelt Room, a sophisticated cocktail lounge in downtown Austin, and Peached Social House, known for its cozy ambiance and locally-inspired decor.

Medium to Large Venues (50-200 guests): If you need more space, look at venues like The LINE Austin, with stunning views and indoor-outdoor options; Fair Market, a large warehouse-style space that can be fully customized; or Springdale Station, which offers historic charm and versatility.

Booking early is key in Austin’s busy holiday season, so reach out to your top choices ASAP!

Step 3: Choose the Right Catering and Beverage Options

Great food and drinks are central to any holiday party, and Austin has an abundance of options to suit every palate.

Local Cuisine & Seasonal Menus: Choose from Texas staples like BBQ and Tex-Mex or opt for a seasonal holiday menu that offers vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Consider incorporating Austin favorites like Salt Lick BBQ, Contigo Catering for rustic elegance, or Whim Hospitality for a full-service catering experience.

Drink Packages with Party On Delivery: Simplify the beverage selection by using Party On Delivery, Austin’s top alcohol delivery service. They offer everything from full bar setups, to craft beer and wine delivery, to specialty themed-cocktails and bar accessories. You can choose DIY bar packages for smaller groups or request a bartending service to accommodate a full bar and larger groups. With Party On Delivery, you’ll have one less thing to worry about, ensuring that the drinks arrive on time and are ready for your guests.

By planning your food and drink selections early, you’ll provide a dining experience that complements the atmosphere of your event and keeps guests satisfied.

Step 4: Entertainment & Decor

Adding Austin-inspired entertainment and decor will make your holiday party feel special and festive.

Entertainment Ideas: For a lively atmosphere, consider hiring a local Austin band, booking a DJ, or setting up a karaoke station. Add a photo booth or interactive holiday-themed games for added fun. Altared Weddings & Events and Austin’s Best DJs & Photo Booths offer excellent services for a professional setup that will keep everyone engaged.

Decor Style: Decide on a decor style that complements the venue and your theme. A traditional holiday look with wreaths, poinsettias, and string lights creates a warm and classic feel. For a local Austin twist, incorporate cacti, succulents, and decor items from local artisans to bring in a bit of Austin flair.

Highlight Local Vendors: Using Austin-based vendors not only supports local businesses but also gives your event a unique, community-oriented feel. Vendors like Flora Fetish and Gypsy Floral & Events offer gorgeous, custom floral arrangements, while Bee Lavish Vintage Rentals can provide vintage decor and furniture.

Create a unique experience: What’s more Austin than a boat party on Lake Travis? Boat companies like Premier Party Cruises offer party barges that can be decked out in holiday themes. With covered decks, your event will be a success rain or shine!

Step 5: Logistics and Transportation

With a larger group, well thought out logistics are essential to keep everything running smoothly.

Transportation Options: Arrange bus rentals or shuttles if your venue is outside the downtown area. Partnering with rideshare services like Fetii or offering valet services can make arrivals and departures easier for guests, especially those unfamiliar with the area. We work with several ride share apps and are happy to provide you with a discount

Timing & Scheduling: Consider hosting the event on a weekday evening or Saturday to maximize attendance. Plan a start time of 6 or 7 p.m., allowing guests time to finish their workday before heading to the party.

Safety Precautions: If alcohol will be served, consider setting up a designated driver program, or partnering with local transportation providers to offer safe rides home for guests.

Thorough planning ensures a stress-free event for everyone.

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Why use Party On Delivery for alcohol delivery and party planning?

We’re Party On Delivery, a locally-owned liquor store that knows a thing or two about planning Austin parties! If you’re feeling overwhelmed with planning and need some last minute assistance, reach out! We are happy to help you decide on a venue, book a caterer/bartender, and offer discounts on transportation and certain venues.

OR if you just need alcohol delivered to your venue (COLD & ON-TIME), send an email to orders@partyondelivery.com. Include your name, email, delivery date, delivery address, and a detailed list of your order. With at least a week’s notice, we can get pretty much anything INCLUDING KEGS!

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