Retro entertaining is a year-round activity but for most, the holiday season is particularly a time to gather and enjoy time with friends and family. A month or two of scheduling, cooking, schlepping, gifting, eating, cocktailing and if you’re up for it…entertaining. But for your average MCM enthusiasts this hustle and bustle to have a little fun is a year round excursion, and they take their fun seriously. Plus no one likes to host their friends and family more.
My name is Ian McMaster, and I’m the Associate Editor for Atomic Ranch. While the architecture and furniture design of the MCM movement is where my day to day focus lies, the party culture of this time period and how our readers carry on its traditions is where I connect most. Hopefully this list helps you find the perfect gift for the “host with the most” in your life or inspires you to do a little entertaining yourself!
Atomic Ranch curates the best of Mid Century Modern Design to share with our readers. Some of the products you’ll see featured in this story are affiliate links, which means that if you click through and make a purchase, AR will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Invitations as a gift? Yes! It’s all about the little details for these professional party throwers. With most invitations unfortunately being made on Facebook these days, an actual paper invitation makes the gathering stand out from the start.
These customizable and printable invitations from Swirly World Design make a quick, easy and especially functional gift!
Invitations have been sent, RSVPs have been made, and guests are starting to arrive. Your coat will be taken at the door, you’ll most likely be asked to remove your shoes, and you WILL be offered a beverage.
The libations will be tasty and almost more importantly your glass will be stylish. Atomic Drinkware offers glassware perfect for any occasion and make a great gift for your beloved MCM enthusiast.
Unlike most parties, your host will be doubling as your bartender. Grabbing a beer from the cooler out back probably won’t be an option. So let’s make sure your mixologist is making old fashions and martinis in style!
This Atomic Bar Collection from Destination PSP is the perfect collection for novice and expert bartenders alike.
After a refreshment (or two) it’s time for passed apps! These fun and funky fiberglass cafeteria trays from Katom Restuaurant Supply will keep guests fed in style.
Now that everyone is loosened up and satiated, it’s time for some tunes! Luckily, in the spirit of the season, we’ve already put together your guide to holiday hits and how to enjoy them. My personal favorite being The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album.
As the booze and conversation continue to flow your average MCM host will have some games readily available. This is a party after all! Bring back some nostalgia and maybe teach the kids a thing or two with this gorgeously designed collection of vintage games that can be proudly displayed on any bookshelf.
As the party starts to wind down and the guests start to leave, one thing is certain: there will be leftovers. Help your host keep their fridge organized with food storage containers like these in the Pyrex Refrigerator Set.
For more mid century things to inspire your gift giving (or wish list making), read on for Holiday Gifts for Every Mid Mod Fan on Your List.
To see more of what Atomic Ranch staff have on their wishlists, check out Staff Wish Lists: Small Things Made Well and stay tuned in the coming weeks.
And of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more MCM inspiration.
