Kylee’s themedholiday party themedholiday party

says Kylee Brisch, general manager at Jasper Hotel. Brisch still relishes those magical moments of snowflakes and sparkles, but as an experienced hospitality veteran, her holidays now include reflections on an abundance mindset and taking time to slow down. This holiday season she is looking forward to being present with those around her, including guests of Jasper Hotel and Rosewild Restaurant. Brisch has countless childhood memories with her family, from making igloos with her brother to performing songs on her violin for her extended family. “The holidays are a time to reflect,” Brisch shares. “This past year has taught me to be thankful for the time you have with others. The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that we may not know when we get to see one another. It’s easy to get caught up in everyday life and take time with our loved ones for granted. At the end of the day, quality time with the people in our lives is everything.”

At Jasper Hotel, Brisch is working to provide that opportunity for Jasper guests through her talented team of hospitality and culinary professionals; they bring their upscale boutique hotel to life. During the holidays, they continue to bring joy to their guests and community. “When you step foot into Jasper Hotel, I want you to feel relaxed. Guests don’t need to be sweating the details — we will take care of that,” states Brisch.

Holiday parties are all about fun and feeling festive. Brisch’s ideal party theme would be celebrating a year of gratitude, and the ability to gather with friends, family and loved ones.

For beverages, Brisch likes to start with a signature seasonal cocktail — gin or vodka based, since both are so versatile. She would also ensure there’s a warm drink for an extra cozy feel. One of her favorites is a housemade mulled wine. And of course there would be champagne, because what’s a holiday party without bubbles? You can be sure to find delicate Nick and Nora coupe glasses, because everyone feels extra fancy drinking out of a glamorous glass.

Simple is best when it comes to Brisch’s holiday-themed party. She appreciates a beautiful open space, bright lights and music. The atmosphere is the most magical aspect of holiday parties. A cocktail party in Rosewild’s heated Holiday Chalet on the patio — complete with twinkle lights, music and, of course, faux fur blankets — ticks all her boxes for an ideal happy hour. “Decorations with soft lighting, warm color accents and, of course, you can never go wrong with wine and cheese. I am from Wisconsin, after all!” says Brisch.

For a larger gathering, Jasper’s Continental Ballroom offers panoramic views of the downtown Fargo skyline with floor-to-ceiling windows and a beautiful outdoor terrace — the perfect space to host any event. In addition to hosting your holiday event, Jasper Hotel and Rosewild can host any and all wedding events like rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions and nextday gift opening, all in the same place. “Not to mention, all your guests can stay together to ensure a premier and convenient experience,” says Brisch. “Jasper Hotel guestrooms provide a beautiful sweeping view of Fargo, and gorgeous soft seating that can help to round out any décor choices to make your event extra special.”

“Nothing is better than being under the same roof with family and friends and waking up on Christmas morning. When I was a child, we had stairs going down to the living room, and my brother and I would wait at the top of the stairs until we were allowed to come down. My mom always played the song ‘You Gotta Get Up (Christmas Song)’ by Rich Mullins as we came down the stairs in our childhood home to find the living room filled with presents.”

“To save time, catering through Rosewild reduces yet another vendor from your contact list,” states Brisch. This holiday season, Rosewild will serve upscale dishes full of warm holiday flavors. “My favorite holiday treat is Frango mints and sugarplums. It has been a tradition in our family to have both in our stockings every year. I am beyond thrilled to create new traditions at Jasper this season.”

And what would a party be without photos? That's why Brisch always includes a photobooth and props at any event. “There would be a seasonal backdrop with locally sourced greenery and little white lights. It’s such a great touch to involve guest activity and provide them memories of picturesque moments,” Brisch explains.

Jasper Hotel holiday decorations will be up mid-November, and you’ll be in for a special treat. Don’t forget your camera; you will want to look back on these. Broadway Square continues to grow the spirit of the holidays and provide the community with skating in the park. “I am looking forward to seeing the enormous, yet charming, evergreen tree go up this year. These moments remind me of growing up in Wisconsin. I feel like I have a piece of home with me.”

During the holidays, Brisch would always look forward to her family traditions of watching “A Christmas Story” or attending midnight mass where they light the candles and sing O’ Holy Night. It made her feel special, and that is what really felt like Christmas to her. Brisch describes, “You know, stuff is stuff. It’s important to me that the holidays don’t revolve around gifts and business, and actually to focus on spending time together. Time is everything.” This year is her first holiday in North Dakota, and she is looking forward to connecting with the community and unwrapping the true meaning of the holidays.