How to Host a Minimalist Christmas Party

This year marks the 2nd annual minimalist Christmas party tradition with two of my girlfriends. We had this idea while brainstorming ways to celebrate the holiday in a non-consumerist way. How could we add value, be intentional, and enjoy one another's company without spending money? Simple: good food, festive music, all the candles + moody, hygge lighting, add in a good dose of laughter and a "gift" you already own, but no longer use. Most importantly the people. Good company goes a long way (especially with girlfriends that make you laugh until your face and belly hurt!). Voila! With those simple components you've created a minimalist Christmas party. Sharing a few festive pictures below from our recent gathering, and a few other simple ideas to inspire your minimalist Christmas party.

Minimalist Christmas party tips:

-Cook + create a beautiful homemade meal together

-Ask each guest to bring a childhood favorite holiday appetizer

-Be thoughtful with your "gifts" - don't give junk, find items in your home that are no longer used that would add value to your friend's life

-Instead of gifting a physical item, give the gift of words, like a list of the things you are thankful for about that person, characteristics + attributes you admire in your friend, or a meaningful card sharing cherished memories throughout the year with that person. My girlfriends and I chose to do this last year and I smile every time I catch a glimpse of my list on the side of my fridge.

-Bake + take - last year we each brought a favorite recipe and baked enough to give to neighbors + coworkers to spread more joy

-Light tons of candles to create a cozy, hygge environment

-Wear your Christmas pj's, warm fuzzy socks, and oversized cardigans. It's all about cozy.

I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy the company of friends and loved ones without the fuss. When we continue to strip away the excess, we unveil what truly matters. For my family and I that looks like saying yes to only what fits our family values, leaving white space in our schedules, carving out plenty of time spent in our cozy, minimalist, tiny home, crafting delicious, homemade meals + baked treats to share, focusing on relationships, giving of our time + money to those who need it more than we do--in essence savoring simple. Most importantly, remembering that we worship a God who loved us immensely to send a savior, his only son, Jesus. Feeling thankful as we anticipate the joy + hope found in Christ Jesus alone.

Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.