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The holiday season is a time for celebration, and nothing brings people together like a great party filled with delicious food and drinks. To kick off this year’s Holiday Gift Guide 24, let’s start by exploring the origins of holiday parties throughout history.
The Origins of Holiday Celebrations
The earliest recorded holiday feasts can be traced back to ancient civilizations. For example, the ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia, a festival in honor of the god Saturn, with feasting, dancing, and gift-giving. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Norse also hosted grand festivals around the winter solstice, marking the time when communities came together to celebrate the harvest and give thanks. These gatherings evolved into what we now know as modern holiday parties, where family, friends, and colleagues come together to share the joy of the season.
Fast forward to today, whether you’re hosting a holiday bash at home or attending a work event, one thing is clear: preparation is everything. A well-thought-out holiday party makes for a seamless, enjoyable experience for everyone.
Throwing or Attending a Holiday Party: Preparation is Key
If you’re the one throwing the party, planning ahead is crucial. Ensure you have plenty of high-quality food and drinks for your guests. In today’s health-conscious world, people are more mindful of what they consume, and many are opting for better, more nutritious choices. Gone are the days of overly sugary treats and cheap liquor; now, the focus is on quality.
When planning your menu, consider offering an array of healthy yet delicious options—think gourmet finger foods, craft cocktails, and beautifully presented appetizers. Be mindful of allergies, dietary preferences, and health concerns. Having an inviting and safe spread can elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Trending Food & Drink Items for 2024 Holiday Parties
Here’s a list of the top 10 food and drink items that are trending this holiday season:
- Artisanal Cheese Boards – Curate a selection of local cheeses paired with honey, nuts, and fruit for a sophisticated appetizer.
- Plant-Based Charcuterie – Vegan options for meat and cheese boards are on the rise, offering delicious alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- Gourmet Chocolate Truffles – Luxurious, bite-sized indulgences that are perfect for dessert or gifting.
- Craft Cocktails Kits – Make-at-home cocktail kits featuring premium ingredients are a hit for interactive holiday experiences.
- Organic Wines & Seltzers – Health-conscious guests will appreciate organic and low-sugar options, such as biodynamic wines and hard seltzers.
- Grazing Tables – A popular way to display a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dips, and small bites, allowing guests to pick and choose their favorites.
- Small-Batch Craft Beers – Locally brewed, artisanal beers are trendy and make great conversational pieces.
- Exotic Dried Fruit and Nut Trays – Beautifully arranged, nutrient-rich snacks that are both delicious and festive.
- Gourmet Hot Cocoa Bombs – A decadent winter treat that transforms hot milk into a rich, velvety drink with a hint of nostalgia.
- Spirited Ginger Beer & Mixers – Versatile and refreshing, these mixers can be enjoyed with or without alcohol.
Presenting Your Food and Drink
Presentation is everything when it comes to hosting. To keep things elegant and safe, make sure to display your spread thoughtfully. Use separate utensils for each dish and opt for individual servings when possible to avoid the spread of germs. Fresh vegetables and dips can be arranged in separate bowls with small plates on hand for guests to build their own. Ensure that there are plenty of napkins, serving utensils, and hand sanitizer stations to keep everyone comfortable.
One key tip is to always have plenty of utensils and never allow guests to use their fingers, especially in the post-pandemic era, where hygiene is top of mind. To avoid contamination from sneezing or coughing near food, consider covering your dishes with glass lids or serving them in enclosed containers.
Bringing Gifts to the Party
When attending a holiday party, it’s thoughtful to bring a gift for the host. Plan ahead to avoid the stress of last-minute purchases, which can be underwhelming and poorly chosen. Some great ideas for hostess gifts include:
- A fine bottle of wine or spirits
- Gourmet treats, such as handmade chocolates or artisanal snacks
- Luxurious mixers or craft seltzers
- High-quality napkins, cups, or cocktail accessories
Remember, the best gifts are those that show you’ve put thought into them, so take your time selecting items that reflect your appreciation.
A Warm Holiday Message from Style Lujo
On behalf of the entire StyleLujo.com team, we wish all our readers a wonderful, happy, healthy, and safe holiday season. Make your holiday gatherings memorable by sharing love, laughter, and good food. Be sure to explore our curated list of food and drink selections to make your 2024 holiday parties truly unforgettable.
Vinci Express 2 Cold Brew Coffee Maker:
Perk up and brew your favorite flavored iced coffees at home sweet home this New Year’s Eve with a simple solution from Vinci Housewares. Vinci Express 2 Cold Brew Coffee Maker delivers exceptionally smooth, superior tasting, fully extracted cold brew in minutes with their patented Circle Flow Brewing Technology. This cutting-edge method developed by Vinci’s engineers lessens acidity and enhances the flavor compared to traditional brewing methods.The uncomplicated three-step process simply add grounds, add water, and select your preferred brew strength to suit your taste between light, medium, bold, or extra bold.
Designed to minimize kitchen clutter, this all-in-one coffee maker allows for brewing, serving, and storing coffee, eliminating the need for multiple containers. Plus, the sleek and compact design saves counter space, and its smart self-clean function makes cleaning effortless.Vinci Express 2 Cold Brew: https://vincihousewares.com/products/vinci-express-2-cold-brew-electric-cold-brew-coffee-maker and Amazon.
ICEBREAKER Nordic POP:
Pour ice straight from the ICEBREAKER Nordic POP 4-in-1 Dispenser, Ice Maker, Ice Bin, & Ice Pack that is revolutionizing the way consumers make, serve and use ice cubes without touching the ice. Fill the ICEBREAKER Nordic Pop with water, freeze for 7 hours, push down until flexible, pull open the lid, shake and serve. The patented container is designed to be 100% watertight so you can place and turn the tray in your freezer and it will not spill. It is also a perfect solution to pack in your cooler for keeping beverages cold and adding clean ice to water bottles on road trips as it works great as a freezing element. ICEBREAKER Nordic helps meet your refreshment needs at home and on the go.
WLIVE Side Tables:
Kick back and relax enjoying your iced cold brew in any room with a perfect place to rest your drink with a Side Table from WLIVE, one of Amazon’s top furniture brands with over 1.5 million households served. WLIVE, a top choice for savvy home shoppers is empowering users with furniture and home organization products that are not only practical but also a true reflection of the user’s refined taste. It’s all about Quality, Affordability and Innovation based on the user-focused solutions.
WLIVE Side Tables on Amazon:
Crescent 9 THC Seltzer:
Highly satisfying and deliciously refreshing, Crescent 9 THC Seltzer is made with premium hemp-derived cannabinoids and natural, vegan ingredients. Adults across the country can order these tasty THC seltzers online. With 5 flavors and potencies ranging from 5 mg THC to 50 mg THC, there’s a Crescent 9 for everyone.
SEASON:
Seasons Boneless Skinless Sardines are unique this summer due to their commitment to sustainable sourcing and catering to eco-conscious consumers. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients, they offer a healthful addition to summer diets. Their versatility in recipes and convenience in packaging make them ideal for quick, nutritious meals. Additionally, innovative flavor options and attractive, eco-friendly packaging add to their appeal.
MIGHTYLICIOUS:
Mightylicious Gluten Free Best Sellers Bundle 4-Pack
MIGHTYLICIOUS is an award-winning Gluten Free cookie company that offers up 7 varieties of mouthwatering flavors including vegan and vegetarian options, beautifully packaged for the holidays.
- Mightylicious hand-crafted cookies truly have it all: amazing flavor, perfect texture, clean ingredients, Certified Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free and non-GMO. —everything you want in a cookie except the gluten.
- What sets these decadent cookies apart from the rest is their surprising deliciousness. Everyone is singing the praises of Mightylicious, not just people with celiac disease and health-conscious snackers, but anyone who simply can’t resist a good cookie.
HSN:
HSN Bitoy’s Sweet Treats 4-pack Decadent Brownie Box, $29.99
Chocolate lovers, delight! This decadent brownie box gives you the perfect variety for sharing or enjoying on your own. Each brownie is crafted with the finest cacao and semi-sweet chocolate chips for the perfect, flavorful balance.
ROCKAWAY Soda:
Much like its NYC roots, ROCKAWAY is all about being real to its core. Real fruit juice and real sugar make up the line of four unique flavors:
- Watermelon Guava for those who enjoy a sweeter sip
- Lemon Lemongrass for when you want to quench your thirst
- Pineapple Ginger to satisfy the need for a midday pick-me-up
- Berry Hibiscus when you’re looking for a cool and floral flavor
ROCKAWAY retails at $35.99/12-pack on Amazon and DrinkRockaway.com, or single cans can be found at your local bodega for $2.99.
Talkhouse Encore:
Talkhouse Encore is a line of refreshing, authentic and fruit-forward spirits-based canned seltzers inspired by the iconic Hamptons venue, Stephen Talkhouse. Founded by Ruby Honerkamp, whose family founded and manages Stephen Talkhouse, Talkhouse Encore captures the essence of the iconic Hamptons venue and tastes just like what you would order at the bar. The fruit-forward line comes in six flavors, is gluten-free and made with real spirits, fruit juice, and premium ingredients. Each flavor has no added sugar or artificial flavoring, offering a lighter alternative with authentic taste and fewer calories.
- BUY HERE (SRP: $13.99 for a 4-pack of cans and $26.98 for the variety pack)
- Vodka Soda Cranberry (5% ABV): A refreshing blend of vodka, soda, and cranberry, this tart and sweet blend is perfect for any occasion.
- Hamptons Mule (5% ABV): A contemporary twist on the classic cocktail, this fusion of fresh ginger and lime will transport you from Winter months to beachside moments
- Tequila Soda Blood Orange (5% ABV): Crafted with real tequila, this bold blend has citrus undertones that will transport you to the finest beaches, no matter where you are
- Tequila Soda Grapefruit (5% ABV): Made with real tequila and fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice, this delicious number always has a steady beat.
- Vodka Soda Lime (5% ABV): A zesty mix of lime and vodka, this refreshing blend will transport you to the dance floor.
Belly:
Available on Amazon
Price: $11.99
Belly Brand Foods offers delicious, collagen-infused snacks that not only satisfy cravings but also promote gut health. With a focus on nourishing ingredients, Belly Brand emphasizes the connection between gut health and collagen absorption, making it easier for consumers to incorporate this essential protein into their diets. Belly uses real, pronounceable ingredients and gut-friendly superfoods like grass-fed bovine collagen peptides, offering a nourishing baking experience.
Confetti Snacks:
Confetti Snacks is a new line of veggie chips that ditch the deep fryer but deliver nutrients, crunch, color and flavor galore by up cycling “ugly vegetables.” These chips are minimally processed and never deep-fried, like other veggie chips and extruded “puff” style snacks. Because they are baked using a low heat method, the nutrients – and the beautiful colors of the carrots, radishes, purple sweet potatoes and mushrooms in the mix – remain vibrant. But it’s not just about delivering health dividends and looking good. Confetti Snacks are infused with authentic spices and flavors. Veggie chip flavors include Green Curry, Tandoori Curry, Teriyaki BBQ and Summer Truffle. Mushroom chip flavors include Green Curry, Tandoori Curry and Black Truffle.
Season:
Seasons Yellowfin Tuna Fillets in Olive Oil are a flavorful treat due to their tender, high-quality tuna, which is delicately preserved in rich, fragrant olive oil that enhances the fish’s natural taste. The combination of premium tuna and the smooth, slightly fruity olive oil creates a deliciously savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience perfect for salads, sandwiches, or straight from the jar.
Ponti:
Glaze with Balsamic Vinegar of Modena makes a thoughtful gift because of its rich, complex flavor profile, which perfectly balances the sweetness and tanginess of authentic Modena balsamic vinegar. The elegant, thick consistency and versatile use in drizzling over dishes or as a finishing touch add a touch of sophistication to any kitchen
ICOOKIE POP M&M’S Minis®:
ICOOKIE POP M&M’S Minis® Photo by Snax-Sational Brands
Follow @CookiePop_CandyPop #CookiePop #CandyPop #CerealPop on social media for news and updates, and visit the brand’s website inclusive of their e-commerce shop online.
SNAX-Sational Brands’ established premiere power duo COOKIE POP and CANDY POP, continues to be an innovative popcorn snacking leader combining everyone’s favorite things; ready-to-eat popcorn featuring America’s cookie and candy favorites, yielding the perfect, must-have snack creation, and recently adding CEREAL POP to their portfolio. The better-for-you-snack is made 100% in the U.S. with non-GMO corn, is low in sodium and only 150 calories per serving. The popular, low-calorie, cookie or candy-coated line was named a “Top 20 Snack” by Buzzfeed and continues to garner attention amongst consumers, media and celebrities, from Cardi B., Lance Bass, David Dobrik, Joey King, Victoria Justice, Kourtney Kardashian, Mario Lopez, Kevin Hart, Lucy Hale.
Beatbox Beverages:
Orange Blast delivers a vibrant burst of juicy orange flavor, designed to evoke feelings of nostalgia with every sip. With an 11.1% ABV “punch,” this new addition to BeatBox’s popular flavor lineup packs bold flavor and premium taste in every drop. Currently available in nearly 110,000 retail locations across all 50 states—including major chains like 7-Eleven, Total Wines, and Ralphs. BeatBox continues to revolutionize the alcohol aisles nationwide. True to its commitment to sustainability, BeatBox’s signature Tetra Pak packaging is fully recyclable, resealable, and designed with environmental impact in mind, underscoring the brand’s ongoing dedication to eco-friendly practices.
Heat Hot Sauce Shop:
Price: Varies
It’s time to turn up the heat for the holidays! Discover the Heat Hot Sauce Shop and check off every hot sauce and spice lover on your gift list. The artisan variety is on fire! Choose from the famous Hot Pepper Grinders, Habanero Unami Seasoning, and 7o8 Hot Sauce for stocking stuffers and grab the more extensive gift sets that are filled with sweat-producing heat. Create your own Hot Ones tasting experience from home and bring out delicious flavors that amplify any recipe. Celebrating over 10 years in business, founders Dylan and Becky offer a large online selection, with over 700 varieties of small-batch hot sauces worldwide, including their blends and exclusive collaborations. This includes a huge offering of gourmet fiery sauces, seasonings, and powders for different tolerance levels, appealing to the most discerning food connoisseur. The fiery goodness in the gift sets, in particular, makes them holiday must-haves for any hot sauce enthusiast.
Black Friday/Sale: Beginning Nov. 23:
- Over 100 sauces on sale, up to 40% off!
- 20% off Smoked Carolina Reaper Grinders, 25% off Calexico (a delicious rojo sauce perfect for tacos), 15% off a limited-edition Morita Mesquite sauce from Queen Majesty, and a new small batch Aji Amarillo Puree.
Shiner Rode0 Variety Pack:
A new variety pack from Shiner’s non-alcoholic Rode0 line. Enjoy Shiner Rode0 Golden Brew, Red Amber and Citrus Wit, styled after American lagers, amber ales, and Belgian wits. Enjoy two cans of each style when you pick up this pack.
- Shiner Rode0 Golden Brew: Styled after a classic American lager. It offers crisp malty notes balanced by delicate esters and a gentle hop profile.
- Shiner Rode0 Red Amber: Styled after an Amber Ale. It offers a copper-red hue with toasted and caramel notes. It is malt-forward but balanced by gentle hopping.
- Shiner Rode0 Citrus Wit: Styled after a Belgian Wit. It features a sweet, fuller-bodied profile with notes of orange zest. It’s non-alcoholic with a depth of flavor and a crisp finish.
Nuts.com:
With their irresistibly delicious takes on holiday treats, Nuts.com stands out as a must-have this season. From their peppermint bark and Christmas truffles to their Holly Jolly Jingle mix and Santas pants filled with more holiday themed snacks, Nuts.com has you covered this holiday season.
Nuts.com’s holiday offering is perfect for any holiday gift guides or round ups, their offerings bring together both taste, fun and thoughtfulness.
My Favorite Holiday Features:
- Santa’s Pants ($59.99): filled with nearly two pounds of sweets, is the ultimate “Wowee” holiday gift crafted with Ol’ Saint Nick’s sweet tooth in mind!
- Christmas Treats Tin ($39.99): This gift tins features a new, fresh selection of their best and tastiest treats yet
- Holiday Hits Cookie Box ($59.99 on sale for $29.99): Get into the holiday baking spirit with this cookie box, featuring sugar cookie mix and festive ingredients, perfect for gifting and entertaining all season long.
- Nutty Snowman ($99.99): The Nutty Snowman Gift Tower, filled with approximately three pounds of our freshest, best-tasting goodies, is a memorable treat your favorite foodie will enjoy all year long.
DALES:
Designated Dale’s, launched in October of 2024, continues the brand’s legacy of being an innovator in the industry as its first NA option.
Billed as the “realest fake beer” on the market, Designated Dale’s NA Pils delivers on flavor and authenticity, using real ingredients and brewed by real brewers. Highlights of the new SKU include:
- German hops and 2-row pilsner malts
- Brewed with alcohol which is then removed after the brewing process
- For consumers who genuinely enjoy the taste of beer and are looking for a non-alc option with delicious craft beer character
- Judgment-free, no-fuss positioning, appealing to both beer drinkers and non-alc enthusiasts alike
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis is a visionary force in the world of fashion, celebrated as one of the finest wardrobe stylists and art directors of his generation. His expertise and creativity have earned him accolades throughout the industry, placing him at the forefront of fashion’s evolution. Joseph’s work seamlessly weaves together style, culture, art, and fashion, with a special focus on the shifting landscape of menswear.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Joseph has had the privilege of styling and even interviewing global icons such as Elon Musk, Justin Bieber, Richard Branson, Katy Perry, Tom Brady, and A$AP Rocky, to name just a few. His influence extends beyond styling, as he has also been a prolific writer, contributing award-winning columns to esteemed publications like Esquire, People Magazine, Robb Report, and Playboy. His deep insights and captivating storytelling have established him as a leading voice in fashion journalism.
Joseph most recently served as Creative Fashion Director at Forbes Media, where his dual role as critic and reporter allowed him to explore the intersection of technology and fashion, always championing the transformative power of style. As the founder and president of POTRO, the premier Latinx menswear brand, Joseph is redefining modern menswear with a commitment to celebrating Latinx heritage and craftsmanship.
With an authoritative yet relatable voice, Joseph DeAcetis continues to inspire and influence the world of fashion, setting new standards for success and innovation.
Comments, questions, or feedback? visit me at stylelujo.com
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