Hanukkah lights, Christmas magic, New Year’s sparkle, no matter what you’re celebrating, the holiday season is one big festive marathon. With calendars filling up faster than a cookie platter for St. Nick, late summer/early autumn is the time to start planning a celebration that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re hosting a glam corporate gathering, a cozy dinner with family, or a fabulous cocktail party with friends, we’ve got the perfect planning timeline that keeps things stress-free and full of cheer. Let the pros at Griffin’s Floral Designs set the scene with show-stopping winter florals and holiday vibes that are anything but ordinary.
Why Plan Early?
The holiday season moves fast, like, blink-and-it’s-booked fast! Between securing your ideal venue, locking in your dream caterer, and working with a florist who gets your vibe, the key to a smooth, stunning event is starting early. Your vendors aren’t just showing up day-of, they’ll also be working behind the scenes to design, prep, and master every detail for your event. Giving them that extra lead time means more magic and less mayhem for everybody. So if your holiday vision includes fresh florals, show-stopping décor, and an effortlessly chic atmosphere, now is the moment to make it official planning time. Your future self (and your guests) will thank you.
August/September: Date, Venue, Theme
Three to four months from your event day is prime time to lock in the big stuff, starting with your date and dream venue. Once that’s secured, it’s all about the vibe. Will you go timeless with rich reds and golds? Snowy glam with a winter wonderland feel? Or maybe sleek and modern with a moody twist? (Click here to explore fun and creative holiday event themes and color schemes!) This is also when you’ll want to book your entertainment, whether that’s a band, DJ, or both if you’re feeling extra. And if your event includes sponsors, you’ll need to reach out early and get them on board.
September/October: Catering, Decor, Florals
With your venue locked in, it’s time to start assembling your holiday dream team! Two to three months out is the sweet spot for booking key vendors, including caterers, florists, and décor pros who can take your vision and run with it. Their calendars fill up quickly this time of year, so the earlier you reach out, the more flexibility they’ll have to bring your vision to life. Be sure to share your theme, vibe, and any non-negotiables. Florists especially need time to source seasonal blooms and plan out all those gorgeous, custom touches. So, don’t wait to get that conversation started!
October/November: Guest List, Invitations, Party Timeline
Major details are all locked down, and it’s time to have fun with the nitty-gritty! One to two months out is when you’ll want to finalize that guest list and get those invites out the door. Will it be luxe letterpress with a velvet ribbon, or a chic digital invite that lands right in their text messages? As RSVPs roll in, start shaping your party timeline with speeches, special moments, games, or that late-night karaoke surprise. It’s also the perfect moment to check in with your vendors to ensure everyone’s aligned.
November/December: Vendor Coordination & Final Details
Your holiday bash is just around the corner. Now, it’s all about those finishing touches! With a few weeks to go, connect with your vendors to confirm all arrival times, setup logistics, teardown plans, and any A/V needs for speeches, slideshows, or surprise performances. Double-check your timeline, make sure everyone’s in sync, and add those extra-special touches like signature drink menus, custom signage, or festive favors to really wow your guests. And most importantly? Take a deep breath and soak it all in. You’ve done the hard work, and it’s time to celebrate in style!
Starting your holiday party prep early and connecting with the experts at Griffin’s Floral Designs means your soiree will be sleighing in style! Giving yourself time to get organized means everything will come together seamlessly. With a hot toddy in hand, stress-free, and surrounded by stunning seasonal stems, you’ll certainly feel the holiday joy.
