Memorable Invitations

Set the tone for your party by creating keepsake invitations. Purchase beautiful ornaments and enough gift boxes for the number of invitations you plan to send. To each ornament, attach a note giving the party details. Include date, time, address, phone number, directions and RSVP date (the date by when they let you know whether or not they can attend the party). Also include any recommendations on dress, such as casual, business, semiformal or black tie. Wrap invitations and ornaments carefully in bubble wrap or tissue paper; place in boxes. If possible, deliver invitations in person, or send through the mail. Not only will guests know they are invited to a special holiday party, but they will have an ornament to remember you by each year as they trim the tree!

Bring in the Light

December is the darkest month of the year, but many holiday traditions include a celebration of light. Bathe your home with candles, twinkling lights and lighted holiday decorations. Place floating candles in glass or crystal bowls filled with water. Add even more drama by first placing cranberries and clipped evergreen boughs in the bowls before filling with water.

Wow your guests as you serve dessert on individual glowing plates. Place servings of dessert on plates, attach a metal clip-on candleholder* and candle on edge of each plate. Light candle, and carefully serve each guest.

When using candles, remember to never leave them unattended, and keep a fire extinguisher handy.

*These are the types of candleholders that people used years ago to light their Christmas trees. They are available in German import stores and antique stores.

The Party Goes On

As guests leave, give each a wrapped mini-loaf made from one of Betty Crocker's quick bread mixes. They'll have a nice treat for breakfast as they reflect on your generous hospitality. Each box of quick bread mix makes six mini-loaves. These can be baked up to one month ahead of the party. When cool, wrap each loaf tightly in colored plastic wrap; tie with ribbons. Place loaves in resealable plastic bags, and freeze. Shortly before the party begins, remove loaves from freezer and plastic bags. Place loaves in basket and keep near the door so they'll be ready when guests leave for home.

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