The Emily Post Guide to Throwing the Perfect Holiday Party

lights_and_decorations
Party lights and decorations by christmasstockimages.com is licensed under CC by 3.0.

Remember to keep your party simple and focus on what matters most to you and your guests – enjoying each other’s presence. Follow this guide and you surely will throw the perfect holiday party where you will make your guests feel content and welcome:

1. Preparation

Be sure everything needed to be prepped is done before guests arrive: a planned meal, a variety of beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and outdoor lighting.

2. Self-Awareness

Your guests will feed off of your demeanor. Display no stress, agitation, or disappointment. Be the twinkling light of the party.

3. Toasting

Once you deem the moment appropriate, make a toast thanking your guests for attending. Add meaningful details about their importance in your life.

4. Clumsy Guests

If a guest breaks a glass or spills a drink, clean the mess quickly and effortlessly. Make light of it, and if the guest does not offer to pay for damages, add it to the cost of hosting the party.

5. Inappropriate Guests

If a guest has too much to drink and is beginning to be a nuisance, cut off the alcohol supply, take the car keys, and offer him or her a place to sleep. If he or she refuses, you or a family member should drive the person home. If a guest makes inappropriate comments, ask for that guest’s help in another room and explain that his or her comments are making others feel uncomfortable. Apologize, privately, to any guests who may have been offended.

6. Not Enough Food

If you are running out of a dish, plate smaller portions of the item and larger portions of food you have plenty left. Discretely communicate with family to not eat what is running low. If needed, order a few pizzas.

7. Be Merry

One way to ensure merriment, is being serenaded by holiday melody. Be sure to take the time to compile a holiday playlist that will bring your guests to a festive place.

And of course, greet all of your wonderful guests at the door with a sincere smile accompanied with holiday warmth. Cheers!

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