I hate to say it and sound like a social biscuit, but my social calendar is ridiculously booked. This weekend, I traveled out of state to attend a friend’s birthday party. Honestly, there was a birthday, but I was looking for the “bonanza.” I was sorely disappointed when his apartment was filled with 20 party-hungry guests, and he resorted to playing old college videos that only two people knew anything about.
Looking around at the expressions on the other guests’ faces, you would have thought they were at a chess tournament. If it were my party, I would’ve livened things up with some games, fun drinks, jokes, and guest involvement—but it wasn’t my place. So I sat… and sat… and sat.
Please, I beg you: help put an end to boring apartment parties! If you plan to entertain this holiday season or at any time in the future, keep these five simple steps in mind to help your guests have a great time. Check it out:
1. The Invitation
Create a high-energy, fun invitation that grabs your guests' interest and makes them excited about your gathering. Use fun pictures, jokes, and catchy taglines. Exciting language will get people up and moving!
2. Greet Your Guests
When a guest arrives, greet them! Don’t let them enter your apartment and awkwardly try to integrate into an already mingling group. Be at the door to shake their hand and make them feel welcome. The sooner they feel welcomed, the sooner they’ll let themselves have fun. Then introduce them around—be a true host!
3. Ambiance
You’re throwing a party! Set the ambiance to create a fun, interesting, and exciting atmosphere. Change your lighting to create a different mood or rearrange your furniture. Your apartment layout is typically set up for living; now it’s time to prepare for entertaining! If your ambiance isn’t inviting and lively, your guests won’t feel it. Play music in the background, but keep it at a volume where people can comfortably talk.
4. Make It Involving
How many parties have you attended where you just stood around eating or drinking? Lame! Give your guests something to do. Plan activities that get everyone involved—play games, give away door prizes, sing songs—anything entertaining that can draw laughs will get your party bumpin’! (Just remember to be mindful of your neighbors and avoid disturbing them… unless they’re at your party!)
5. Fun Food and Drinks
Beer and pretzels are great snacks for watching the game with friends, but if you’re hosting a party, you need fun food and a variety of great drinks. Unique food and hors d'oeuvres will please your guests and keep their interest alive. Try California rolls instead of pizza rolls or chocolate-covered pretzels mixed with peanuts for an exciting twist.
Creating a themed drink for the night with a fun name can also spark interest and laughter. For example, some friends of mine created “Yucca Juice,” which was a simple variation of the traditional margarita with some added goodness. The important thing is to have fun with it—if you enjoy yourself, your guests will too!
By keeping these five simple steps in mind for your next party, you’ll have guests raving about how much fun they had and asking when you’ll host another one—rather than dreading stepping foot in your place again. Remember… HAVE FUN!
