It’s that time of year now when companies and families and just anyone are starting to plan holiday parties, get-togethers with loved ones or coworkers to enjoy the seasonal festivities and take a break from the labors of the year.
As with any type of party planning, holiday parties need some thought and care to go off without a hitch, and although this type of thing can seem complicated, it really comes down to common sense and knowing your audience.
Basically, ask yourself who will be at this party, what do they like for the holidays, and how can I make it so they leave happy and fulfilled?
Still need some help? Check out these three tips for throwing a successful holiday party.
Initial Planning
First of all, whether this is to be a holiday party at work or at home, planning is definitely needed. For all we know, you could be in charge of literally everything, from the decorations to the food to the entertainment.
One thing you’ll want to do here is find out the preference of the guests. There are multiple holidays that one can celebrate at the end of the year, so don’t make all the decorations about one holiday. Keep it neutral, or cover all the holidays.
Also, find out whether there are any vegetarians or vegans in the crowd for the party. You won’t want to be serving those people from the cutting station!
Get Some Live Entertainment
You know what’s awkward? A bunch of people standing around with drinks in dead silence. You’ll want someone around to establish and maintain an atmosphere throughout the event, ideally a relaxing one.
Go online to search for “entertainment near me” so you can sift through the singers, bands, and other types of performers who will be able to book your party on their calendar and inform you of how they work.
There’s nothing like live entertainment for a fancy party such as this, instead of somebody playing music from a speaker. Go for fancy when fancy calls for it.
Ensure Everyone Has a Safe Way Home
When we talk about holiday parties, we usually talk about alcoholic drinks. That makes sense, and we would never want to talk you out of serving those!
What we do need to get across to you, though, is that you, as the host, might want to start thinking about providing your guests with options for leaving your party safely. Yes, these are all adults here, but surely you owe them the opportunity to have a good time at the party while not having to worry about driving.
Maybe have Ubers or Lyfts on standby, or at least cover these rides for your guests. Don’t let anyone leave who drove themselves and seems a little tipsy. You don’t want that happening here tonight. Call them cabs or other rides, but whatever you do, just look out for the safety of your party guests, and they will thank you for it.
Just a little common sense will go a long way when planning a successful holiday party!
