Christmas comes but once a year, but boy, are people starting early this year.
It looks like the trend this year is for Apres Ski Parties.
What is interesting is the slant people are taking. Summer isn't really here yet. It has been cold, then hot, then cold - not consistent like last year or in previous years. Winter we have a feeling is going to be very cold - from waht peope are telling us and thus planning for.
You would think if people think it is going to be cold, they would go for a 'warm' theme (Caribbean, Australian, Mediterranean...) Not so. People seem to be embracing that 'Winter / Alpine' Ski theme - hence the Apres Ski theme looks like it could be big thiscoming Christmas.
Fondue, Raclette, Rosti and other Swiss foods seem to be 'in' and planned for, but so is a cross between Oktoberfest and a Good Old Knees-up also seem to be on the cards this year too.
Parties can be expensive, so we have seen the rise of 'bring something (food or drink) with you to the party'. What ever happens, it looks like it is going to be a VERY busy Christmas party season and starting early this year.
Sorry to talk about Christmas so early (usually reserved for September when it 'starts' to get cold) - a first for us, and we started the company in 2004/2005!
Prost! Beifall!