This time of year brings many things: leaves changing, the possibility of snow, time with family and friends, and lots of holiday parties. To help you prepare for these parties, we asked wedding and event planner extraordinaire Susie Swanson Fortner, of Miss Susie, to give us some of her best holiday entertaining tips.

The Invitations

Need an excuse to get your house straight and the holiday decorations up? Start with a cute e-invitation sent to your nearest and dearest.

There are so many fun e-invitations sites online these days! Try one of these:

Holiday Decorations

Decorate your home with potted seasonal blooms and greenery. A few of my holiday favorites:

Paperwhites
Poinsettias
Christmas Cacti
Amaryllis

These plants will bring you joy all season long!

Reinvent your monogram door hanger for the season by adding fresh greenery or a festive bow. [spacer size=”0″]

Food for Holiday Entertaining

Serve your friends tasty snacks that are easy to make or purchase from a local baker or caterer.

A few simple Ideas:

Cheese Straws
Vegetable & Fruit Crostini
Sliced Ham with Biscuits
Shrimp Cocktail
Hot Pepper Jelly served over Cream Cheese
Stuffed Endive

And let’s not forget about the drinks! One of my favorite holiday treats is float frozen cranberries in typical libations: Champagne, red wine, sparkling water – for a festive feel!

Festive Send Off

Send friends home with a traditional holiday treat.

Homemade Scottish Shortbread is my go-to but even brownies or muffins would be a much appreciated treat.

Now, you’re on your way to a fun holiday celebration that won’t break the bank or your back!

Hmm, think I’ll put one together myself this year…

About Susie Swanson Fortner

Wedding Maestro, Time Juggler, Etiquette Buff, and general, all around Southern Girl, Susie Swanson Fortner has been professionally planning weddings and events since 2008 in her hometown of Huntsville, Alabama. She has a passion for entertaining and delights in that little extra detail or added sparkle. Apart from her beloved weddings, Susie stays busy corralling her son, Freddie and running alongside her husband, Mark. Visit MissSusie.com to learn more about her services and read upcoming blog posts.