STEP TWO: DECIDE THE SCOPE Everyone has different ideas of who they want to see and spend time with during the holidays. Some people only celebrate with family; others bring friends to celebrate with them at home. Deciding how intimate you want the party to be, in quantity and quality, will help you decide which kind of party you want it to be. A more intimate party can sate partygoers with an elaborate dinner, which can either be cooked by you (either partially or fully), or just ordered in from a restaurant. Goodfood,goodcompanyandgoodfunshouldbethegoalsallthetime. A larger party could feature a buffet-style arrangement, or even a potluck where you cook the turkey, ham, or both, and your guests could bring a side they'd like everyone to try. That will cut down on a lot of the time you'll have to spend in the kitchen, and it also lets the guests take some of the spotlight if their dish is particularly well-received at the party. Your turkey can be a big hit, and so canyouraunt'smashedpotatoes!
STEP THREE: KEEP IT INTERACTIVE Back in step one, I discussed the importance of making sure people are being heard, especially considering the contentious year we've all had. You can ask your guests what kind of color scheme they like for the decorations (if this is something you can't decide on your own), and also how they would like to be entertained. A lot of people like conversation set to the soft sounds of holiday music. I know that's how our parties were held in my house growing up. Other people may want something a little less traditional, like karaoke, or a dance party, or even a cocktail party. Include as many specific details that you know your partygoers will like, while still keeping a healthy balance to ensureyougetwhatyouwantoutofthisparty. Another way to increase interactivity at the party is to ensure that everyone speaks to everyone else. Make a note of the people coming to your party who don't normally interact with one another. Introduce them during the party and find an interest that you know the two of them share. From there, these former strangers will quickly become acquaintances, on the path to becoming friends whotrulyunderstandoneanother. Again,somethingweneedthisyearmorethananyother.
What tips do you have for optimizing your own annual holiday party? Write them on our wall at facebook.com/hotspotscentralflorida
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