How To Host A Hot Chocolate Social (Slideshow)

The invitation is something that will set the mood for your entire party. Consider the tone you want to set. Is it whimsical? Or are you considering a more adult party? Choose your invitations wisely, since they'll set the tone for the entire event. Check out a site like Tinyprints.com or Minted.com for some adorable seasonal invites.

It's not always necessary to decorate but it definitely adds a little something extra. Grab some cute fake snow and put it on your table. Take some paper snowflakes and hang them from the ceiling and glitter the place up.

If you're hosting a hot chocolate party, you'll need some good mugs. Of course, you could grab some mismatched mugs from your cabinets. Or you could really set the scene by picking up a few sets of these adorable marshmallow mugs. Their rosy little cheeks will warm up everyone. 

If you are hosting a hot chocolate party, you absolutely must have hot chocolate. If you want to impress guests, try offering them different flavors to try. To get fancy about it, add the chocolate to mason jars that you've labeled so guests can scoop their own flavors. 

Some people like marshmallows in their hot chocolate. Others are strictly whipped cream fans. If you're in the whipped cream camp, you should definitely consider making your own. Simply whip 1 cup of heavy cream in a stand mixer with 2 tablespoons of sugar until it forms somewhat stiff peaks. You'll never go back to store-bought whipped cream again. 

A hot chocolate party is really a time for the marshmallow lover. Jet-Puffed makes multiple kinds of marshmallows these days, including ice cream cone, chocolate, and gingerbread. Also consider having classic plain marshmallows on hand. But be sure to include the adorable mini mallows as well for a cute factor. 

Hot chocolate isn't something that ever needs a lot of panache. It's flavorful enough on its own. However, it is always fun to add a scoop of salted caramel or a few spoonfuls of gingerbread syrup to add a little extra zing. Be sure to include a bunch of different toppings for everyone to enjoy. 

OK, so even though hot chocolate is a kid's favorite winter drink, it can be given a fun adult twist as well. Consider having an adult corner, stocked with peppermint and butterscotch schnapps, coconut rum, and other libations to give your hot cocoa a grown-up edge. 

A hot chocolate party is clearly all about the drinks. But even so, there should still be something to nosh on. If you want to go all sweet, make it cookies. A vanilla or sugar cookie would contrast perfectly. But if you're thinking of leaning toward savory, consider simple bites like goat cheese and crackers. Simplicity is key. 

It is Christmas time, so sending guests home with a little gift will take your party over the edge. Grab a cute mug, add a packet or two of hot chocolate, some peppermint candy canes, and a few marshmallows. Wrap it all with a sparkly ribbon and you've got a great party favor.