The holiday season is upon us and what better way to celebrate than by throwing a festive holiday party? As we all know, a party is only as good as its decorations and who better to give us the inside scoop on party planning than floral designer and founder of Unwilted, Liz Carter. In an exclusive interview with ET, Liz shares her tips and tricks for throwing the ultimate holiday bash.
With years of experience in the floral industry, Liz has made a name for herself with her unique and creative designs. Her company, Unwilted, specializes in creating stunning and sustainable floral arrangements for all occasions. When it comes to party planning, Liz’s expertise in floral design adds the perfect touch to any event.
One of the first things Liz emphasizes when it comes to throwing a holiday party is to start with a theme. “A theme sets the tone for the entire party and makes it easier to plan the decorations and menu,” says Liz. She suggests incorporating the holiday season into your theme, whether it’s a classic winter wonderland or a festive Christmas motif. This will create a cohesive and festive atmosphere for your guests.
Next, Liz stresses the importance of creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. “Lighting is key,” she says. “Candles and string lights are not only affordable but also create a cozy atmosphere.” Adding a touch of greenery to the lighting, such as hanging garlands or wreaths, can also add a festive touch to the overall decor.
When it comes to decorating your space, Liz advises using natural elements. “Incorporating natural elements such as pinecones, berries, and branches adds a rustic and elegant touch to the holiday decor,” she says. These elements can also be found in your own backyard, making it a cost-effective option. For a touch of glamour, Liz suggests incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver in your decor.
Of course, no party is complete without food and drinks. Liz recommends creating a festive and visually appealing food display. “Use seasonal fruits and vegetables to create a colorful and inviting spread,” she suggests. Adding a touch of greenery to the food display, such as a small bouquet of herbs, can also add a unique and fresh touch. As for drinks, Liz suggests serving up a signature holiday cocktail, like a cranberry mule or a spiked hot chocolate.
When it comes to seating arrangements, Liz’s advice is to keep it simple and comfortable. “Opt for mix and match seating options like chairs, benches, and floor cushions to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere,” she says. Adding holiday-themed throw pillows and blankets can also add a touch of warmth to the seating area.
But what makes a party truly memorable is the small details. Liz suggests adding personalized touches like place cards or party favors to make your guests feel special and appreciated. “It doesn’t have to be extravagant, a simple handwritten note or a small potted plant can go a long way,” she says.
As the party winds down, Liz encourages hosts to think about the environment by using sustainable and eco-friendly options. “At Unwilted, we are all about sustainability and reducing waste,” she says. Liz suggests using reusable or biodegradable plates, utensils, and decorations to lessen the environmental impact of the party.
To end the night on a high note, Liz suggests sending your guests off with a fond memory. “A photo booth is always a fun and interactive way to create lasting memories,” she says. Adding holiday-themed props can also add a touch of whimsy to the photos.
As Liz wraps up her interview with ET, she leaves us with one last piece of advice. “Don’t stress too much about perfection, the most important thing is to enjoy the party and spend time with loved ones.” With these tips from floral designer and Unwilted founder, Liz Carter, you’ll be sure to throw a festive holiday party that will be the talk of the town. Happy party planning!
