Each year, couples
and families begin the annual tradition of making plans for New
Year's Eve, often much before the start of the holiday season.
Each person asks another and another, in search of something to
do. The search usually comes up fruitless, until about December
30th, when people are left scrambling for dinner reservations or
a party to attend.
This year, bring the
party to you by hosting a New Year's Eve bash at your home. It's
easy, it's fun and it's a built-in New Year's Eve plan! Follow
these tips and you'll ring in the New Year with a b
ang!
INVITATIONS
Invites should
include the basics of time, place and directions. Also, indicate
the attire. If it's going to be a casual jeans and T-shirt event
or a more formal evening gown and tuxedo type of evening, that's
something guests need to know. Get creative with your invites.
Take a card and attach party horns. Cut an invitation in the
shape of a champagne flute or party hat. Toss some confetti into
the envelope for a festive flair.
FOOD AND DRINK
Stock up on finger
foods like chips and dip in advance. Arrange all food on
platters, cover with foil and place in the refrigerator until
guests arrive. If you are serving dinner, do some planning.
Remember, everyone else has the same idea! For sandwiches or
salads from the local deli, order in advance or see if they
offer New Year's Eve platters that often include side dishes or
drinks. If you are bringing in take-out like Chinese food or
pizza, be sure to allow for enough pick up or delivery time.
For drinks, offer a
mix of alcoholic beverages like beer, wine and of course
champagne, and nonalcoholic drinks such as water and soda. Brew
up a pot of coffee and hot water for tea for guests who need an
extra dose of caffeine.
THE
ROOM
Everyone wants to see
the ball drop in Times Square. Turn on all the TVs in your house
for guests who are milling about. Consider borrowing a large TV
if you don't have one so guests in the main area can all take in
the countdown.
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES
Occupy guests until
the countdown. You can have everyone make resolutions and bury
them in a time capsule. If kids are present, you can have them
make noisemakers by placing beans, rice or beads in plastic
drink bottles.
Happy New Year!
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Party Planning
