We're smack dab in the thick of the holiday season, and time shows no evidence of slowing down. Before you know it, we'll be ringing in a new year and bidding 2013 farewell. Soon it'll be time to toss out the wrapping paper and pack away the presents, and party like its 1999. Although it seems daunting, hosting a party doesn't have to be all work and no play, if you follow these useful tips on how to successfully host a holiday party:
1. Do the Dollar Tree
Head down to the Dollar Tree, the 99 cents store, or whichever dollar store you have in your area. There are sparkling decorations, snazzy punch bowls, colorful tablecloths and every utensil you'll ever need. Go here first, before the supermarket, and your pockets will thank you later.
2. Spy on Pinterest
You need not be crafty to execute a successful DIY. Doing it yourself not only saves you money, but gives your party a personalized and unique appeal. Pinterest does all the work for you.
3. Use an E-vitation
With all the traveling people do during the holidays, party invitations can get lost in the shuffle. Be user-friendly and try an e-vitation. Punchbowl has contemporary designs and useful features like message boards and auto-reminders. It's an efficient way to keep up with your guest count.
4. Choose a Theme
Whether it's a Kwanzaa celebration, an Ugly Sweater party, or New Year's Eve bash, themes are an excellent way to get your guests excited. Incorporate party colors or dress codes, and decorate accordingly.
5. Prepare a Signature Drink
As with your theme, having a signature drink ups the ante at any party. Guests have something to talk about, and it shows how much thought you really put into your event.
6. Make a Playlist
Preparing a playlist prior to your party is an easy way to ensure your guests enjoy themselves. Hook your laptop up to speakers to play your music library, or use Pandora to allow your guests to request their favorite singers.
7. Have Games on Deck
Games aren't appropriate for every party, but having some available is a smart backup plan to have. There may be lulls during the party when guests are arriving and departing, and having non-embarrassing games to play could increase the fun (especially if prizes are involved)!
8. Offer Snacks
Don't overwhelm yourself cooking and baking for hours. Providing snacks are essential, especially if drinking is involved, but you no one will expect a 3-course meal. Grab a cheese, veggie and fruit platter from your local supermarket and call it a day. Place your finger food in fancy servingware, and you're good to go!
9. Over-Invite Your Friends
Let's face it, not everyone who RSVP'd is going to show up. People are busy during the holidays, so don't take it personal. Over-invite your friends and family to account for those who might not come. This way you won't be left in an ugly sweater and a chip n' dip tray by yourself, crying the Christmas blues.
10. Consider the Weather
If you're planning to host a themed party, consider the weather. If your party has a Gatsby theme, but a storm is on the horizon, you might want to rethink that. Same goes for warm weather. If you live somewhere where it's 75 degrees, an ugly sweater party might be uncomfortable.
Whatever you decide to do, these tips will help you keep a sane mind and have tons of fun.
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