The holiday hustle and bustle makes this season an exciting, albeit hectic, time. AFM can take at least one stressor—throwing that perfect holiday party—off your mind. As you were finalizing your guest list, we compiled the top tips for hosting your most sophisticated holiday soiree yet.

First Glimpse

These days, it’s tempting to e-blast your invites to save paper, not to mention time and effort addressing envelopes. But electronic invites—even cute ones—are an upscale party don’t, says Anne Bryan of Creative Events, L.L.C., in Tucson. “For a holiday party [this] elaborate, [the invitation] should be sent through traditional mail,” Bryan says. Incorporate the theme of your party into the invites to give the guests a distinct first impression of the party to come. In keeping with the holidays, Bryan suggests sending invites in small gift boxes, lending them more importance and an anticipatory feel. A simple, thoughtful touch, like a cookie or a gourmet candy cane, can make all the difference.

Location Adoration

Choosing a venue for your upscale holiday bash can be a predicament—outdoors or in? At home or elsewhere? Bryan says, “[Hold the party] either at your home so it’s really personalized or at an upscale resort.” While home parties can create a warm and inviting environment, renting a party room at a resort can make your bash feel more like a night out. Plus, both out-of-town and local guests can reserve rooms at the resort, making getting home a non-issue.

Sylvia Drew, florist, event planner and owner of Creative Arrangements by Sylvia, says that outdoor parties, even at this time of year, are not off limits. Guests can easily weather chilly Tucson temperatures with the addition of outdoor heaters. To prevent food from getting cold, situating heaters under covered serving trays will keep food toasty and tasty. And prepare for unexpected gusts by tying down tablecloths and using heavy centerpieces to prevent the party from being gone with the wind.