Just a little seasonal FYI

Well Chic Readers,

‘Tis the season to be jolly and all things festive. This is the only time of the year where several holidays are jumbled together which can be great for some, but a nightmare for others. Great if you’ve been invited to parties, a nightmare if you’re throwing one! Just the thought of throwing a soiree together can induce bouts of anxiety, especially if you’ve never thrown one before.

With that said, let me be the first to say that I really dislike parties that are thrown together in two seconds. For one, it’s the surest way to ensure that your party is going to suck. Secondly, there is no way to rectify any last minute snafoos should you encounter any, so it’s definitely better (and safer) that you at least plan ahead and adopt some very basic (but essential) party guidelines.

Let me just add that I have hosted some really great parties and some… well…not so memorable ones -slash- they were crazy lame and haunt me to this day.  I know what works and what doesn’t.

Waa waa party foul...

To start:

1) Pick a date

I think the trickiest part to any party is the actual date of the party. With so many people leaving town for the holidays and throwing parties of their own (hiss), it is super important that you pick the right date. Once you’ve picked a date that works for the majority of your guests, stick to it!  Also, it also helps if you pick your date several weeks ahead so people remember and actually mark it in their calendars.

2) Be realistic

The one issue I always had when throwing parties is that not everyone will show up. Don’t take it personally because as we all know, Murphy’s law can rear its hideous face and totally ruin any of your guests’ plans. If you plan on having 20 guests, invite 40.  If you plan on having 40 guests, invite 80.  There is no way all your guests will attend. Trust me. And in the off chance that all your guests show up, then you’re a rock star.

3) Food & Drink

I know we’d all like to think that our friends and families will come to our parties for support… but alas this rarely proves to be true. The one way to attract your BFFs is incentives. People like to eat and drink. If you can foot the bill for some premium spirits and yummy snacks you will forever be remembered as a great host. Even if you’re on a budget, having some sort of sustenance will deter your guests from taking off in search of greener pastures. Great party foods include: cupcakes, chips & dip (duh), cheese, pizza, sandwiches, and other easy finger foods. If  you want to get really fancy, cater it…

4) Soundscaping

Music, music, music. Seriously take 30 minutes to make a really cool playlist because the right music can make any party. Theme it. Going for lounge, check out Koop. Going for dance, check out Kaskade. You get the point.

5) Be a good host

I have a ton of friends so every time I throw a party, I have different kinds of people together in one room. Some intermingle with ease, while others sip their drinks and pretend to be on their phones. I know its hard for some people to meet new people, so I always make it a point to strike up a topic of conversation that both parties can engage in. I also make rounds and make sure that everyone is having a good time and that no one is in need of anything.

I’m sure you’re thinking that this is common knowledge, but you would be surprised by how many people forget the most basic things. By following these rules you should have a great foundation for the perfect holiday party. So Chic Readers, take note, plan now, and most of all HAVE FUN!

Wheeee