People all around the world celebrate New Year’s Eve by either attending or hosting a party. Some that I have been to in the past were boring, while others were totally awesome. So, last year I decided to put my energy and efforts into entertaining my family and friends by throwing a New Year’s Eve party. I first, realized that I had to organize my party planning into phases.
Phase 1 was to send out E-vites to all perspective guests, early enough, requesting that they respond within a couple of days and to include the number of people they planned to bring with them. Doing this allowed me to figure out how many guests to expect so that I could shop for plenty of food, drinks and party favors. After receiving the RSVP’s from those I had invited, I soon began phase 2.
Phase 2 consisted of planning what I was going to feed my guests. I had to decide, whether to have it catered or do the cooking myself. I will say that if it is within in your budget to cater, by all means do so. It saves you time and energy.
I decided to prepare the food myself. I decided that my food menu would consist of a vast array of ready-made finger foods, that I could heat and serve quickly. Click here for some recipe ideas. I chose finger foods so that utensils and chairs were not needed. It also, made for a quicker cleanup!! All that I needed was napkins and small paper plates.
Phase 3 consisted of preparing my home for New Years Eve guests. I started by rearranging my furniture and removing my area rugs, so that the inadvertent drink or food spill would not ruin them. I wanted to create a big open space for my guests to dance, stand and carry on conversations. The only furniture that I left was a large sofa that I placed against the wall and the serving table.
My most important phase was phase 4. I made a huge playlist that consisted of music from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and lively dance music from different genres of those same eras. After all, a real great party has never ending music to sing and dance to. You save money compared to hiring a DJ.
Phase 5 was to make sure that I purchased enough drinks for the party, including alcoholic beverages for age-appropriate guests as well as soda and bottled water. Of course I asked my closest friends to bring a bottle of something to the party, as this could turn into being the most expensive part of hosting a party. In being a gracious host, I also prepared my guest bedroom for those close friends who became inebriated and needed to lie down.
I was so happy that my party lasted way after midnight and it cost me under $200. It was awesome! I am thinking about having another New Year’s Eve party this year!!
Happy Holidays & Have A Great New Year!
Posted by Eve