How to have the ultimate New Year's Eve...
So lets take a little look at what makes the list for hosting an unforgetable party...
Essential Ingredients:
Much like any event, it wouldn't be right without the perfect blend of music and entertainment, good food and drink, pleasant conversation and being in the company of old friends and interesting new acquaintances.
- Never underestimate the usefulness of a strong party remix. Depending on the theme of your party, mixing some old classics, festive favourites and some contemporary dance numbers can be all your party needs to get people into the party mood and onto their feet.
- Food is always a difficult thing to judge when hosting a party, will there be enough? Is there too much? Don't panic. A buffet is essential with the usual suspects, but why not have a go with a lasagne recipe or another like main. Put some different breads on the the table too and you're offering a hearty meal and your guests can enjoy your selective finger food to compliment it. Don't forget to prepare for your vegetarian guests too.
- Be sure to think about your guest list. There is no need not to invite someone so as to avoid friction, but think about who will get on with who before hand so as to help keep mingling effortless and natural.
Rules for the host:
Although it is the hardest role to take on at any party, the trick to a good hostess is that the part should be played effortlessly. You should be able to glide in and out of the rooms, always attending to the needs of your guests without seeming flushed or flustered.
- Always seem gracious and make your guests feel welcome and comfortable at all times.
- Put as much preparation into the evening as possible. This will aid the smooth running of the night itself.
- Always have plenty of ways to start conversations so as to avoid stale topics of conversation.
- Keep mingling between people, you never know who you may be able to matchmake!
What the hostess should wear:
It's important for a host to feel comfortable for the amount of moving around that they will do: Comfortable shoes are a must. An outfit should reflect the mood of the party as the host is the link and centre piece of the event.
- For a classy dinner party, go elegant with a formal black dress, a statement piece and a couple of pieces of jewellery.
- If you're wanting this to be a lively environment with drinking and dancing, you cannot go wrong with a glittering number that will add glamour to the surrounding. It's bound to get people up on their feet to mingle and dance.
Do's and Dont's:
DO name different cocktails after people at the party. It makes them feel glamorous!
DO go for a firework display, it's special entertainment that everyone can appreciate
DO try to have even numbers of guys and gals to partner off for 'that kiss' at midnight!
DO have a couple of party games, they're a great icebreaker.
DON'T have too many things happening at once, something is bound to be missed.
DON'T just tell people to help themselves and that be it. Attend to guests all night.
DON'T get out the expensive crystal glasses, no matter how careful people are - accidents DO happen.
Themes:
This can be the making or breaking of a good party. Before you decide on a definite idea for your party you may want to research how difficult it may be to get hold of outfits and props for the evening. The last thing you need is added stress on top of all the normal party planning there is. Additionally, chat to your potential guest list about their views, if people have a real aversion to your idea they may be reluctant to attend.
Go for a classic 70s or 80s themed party for a good rock and roll, old school vibe. The fashion is very in right now so you won't find it hard to get your hands on costumes. Similarly, why not go for a classy Great Gatsby or 20s themed party - the sparkly, jewels and frills tie in nicely with the champagne that will be pouring all evening!
Drinks to serve:
It might be nice to have a couple of cocktails served as well as the usual wines and spirits that you expect at a party. That said, keeping them simple will mean less work for you and the batches can just be effortlessly made up and left to one side for when needed. Why not try a sparkling, fruity and gentlemans's cocktail?
Sparkling - Champaign is a must have drink for new year's eve, but with a drop of an expensive fruity vodka and a raspberry thrown in the flute, this is the perfect face lift for the classic drink.
Fruity - A lady loves a little colour in her glass, so why not top her up with a raspberry bubble this new year's. For the full recipe, click here
One for the gentlemen - Although some may be reluctant to drink cocktails, any man will struggle to refuse a 007 wrapped up martini based beauty. Now all he's looking for is his Bond girl!
How to bring in the bells:
It's important to gather everyone together in a central place for this special moment - the climax of the evening.
Whether it's outside in the garden for a romantic, suprise firework display or something a little more low key such as a toast indoors, the important thing is to have all your guests together and for everyone to feel included.
Something a little different - why not go around the party with a digital camera at the party, particularly if it's themed, to get shots of your guests having a great time. When the clock chimes 12 have the camera hooked up to the TV or projector so your guests can see how much they've enjoyed themselves at the party, putting them in a great mood for the start of 2012!
Catch NEW YEAR’S EVE in cinemas from Thursday December 8
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