Party Tips to keep them talking!

T'is the Season; Christmas is near. For all of you party hosts here a few tips that are sure to keep your guest pleased while keeping you stress free. 

• First things first: choose a menu that not only keeps the pallet happy but can also cater to even the pickiest of eaters.  Meatballs, Sausage, Chicken and Vegetarian Meatless Patties savored in a choice of glazes from sweet to sour are sure to be a big hit especially for a party that is given during the mid to late evening hours.  I think everyone can appreciate fresh vegetables, fruit, pasta salad, sweet treats, an assortment of cheese, crackers and chex-mix.  Step it up a notch by having veggie-all cheese for your vegetarians; this way every one can get their fill of great food.  * Have a server with a food tray walking around the room.  Your guest will appreciate being catered to.
• Great wine and spirits are a must have for the festive drinker.  If you are looking to save money while providing options these tips will keep money in your back pocket.  Buy wine by the case with choices from semi-sweet to semi-dry in red and white.  Have a signature drink that is made with a white liquor, juice and Sprite (Have fresh Kiwi, Pineapple or Orange slices floating on top), this is not only refreshing but is pretty to look at.  I think you can get away with not having beer, but for that small group that has to have a bottle to turn up, a couple of cases should be on stand-by.  * Having a bartender to serve the drinks will not only add a classy touch but will assure that the drinks will last through the evening.   
• Music is key for any great party.  Keep it simple; if you aren't going to have a D.J. then have mixed Cd's with your favorite music from the 80's, 90's or any era that you choose.  Don't forget to have a selection of upbeat Christmas songs to add to the mix.  With a variety like this, you can't go wrong.
• Decor is essential for making a great impression.  Adorn the party space and guest bathroom with flickering candles. (You can get these at any craft store in bulk for an affordable price) Have a few scented candles in the entryway as well as the bathrooms.  Nothing is better than an alluring fragrance in a well populated or used space. Have a few centerpieces throughout the party area that are intriguing enough to spark conversation.  The centerpieces should be rich in color, cascading in presence and versatile in assortment. For an extra added touch in the bathroom provide small, rolled up hand towels (spray a light fragrance on them) in an assortment of Christmas colors in a basket for your guest to use.  Have an extra basket for the disposal of the hand towels. Don't be mediocre; Anyone can do paper towels. Lotion, lotion, lotion, dry and over washed hands aren't attractive.  Keep your guest polished!
• Last but not least, don't stress about storage space for your guests' coats, purses and hats.  Empty out your front room closet as the coat space.  Hang an extended towel hook on the closet door for the purses and use a coat rack for the hats and umbrellas.  Every thing will be neat in one area while keeping your bedroom from being invaded!  After all, some places should be off limits.
•   Have a cab service on hand so that your guest make it home safely. 

Have a wonderful party and keep checking for more tips on your upcoming wedding, event, party or special occasion from Artistry By Carolyn.