Greets and Eats

Good food and good hostesses go hand-in-hand. I've never been to a place where the food was so great without excellent service. It is important that if you're planning on hosting a New Year's Eve bash or get-together, that you be an exemplary host.

Great hosting tips include setting the atmosphere. Provide a relaxing ambiance and promote your theme well. Don't over-do it, just do enough to set the tone for your party.

Many people don't comment on decorations, but believe me, they matter. Loud colors and over exaggerated props can damper a party quicker than flat soda. Be subtle, but engaging. A nice tablecloth and a few table centerpieces will do just nicely.

Music. Everyone LOVES music. I may be old, but loud music is such a turn-off at a party. You can't hear your conversations, it makes your head hurt, and blaring music is hard to listen to. Make sure your music is in harmony with your decorations - subtle, but engaging.

As a host, be polite. Be well-dressed whether it's a house party or elegant soiree. Have your clothes ironed and neat, and wear a smile. This may seem elementary, but many people don't understand how being a great host is just as important to the success of a party just as much as the food and entertainment. If you have guests that are not familiar with your venue (whether it's your house or the local community center), show them where the restrooms are, politely inform them on certain "house rules" such as no smoking inside, you're welcome to go out on the balcony, (if you're serving alcohol) drinks will be served at whatever time, etc. And take their coats, or inform them where they can hang their coats. If you're doing potluck, show them where they can set their dish. Thank and compliment them on bringing their dish for the party. These small things go a long way in producing a great vibe for your party, and locks in guests for your parties to come.

Now, my favorite part of the party: the food. Finger foods are nice, but if you're doing something a little more upscale, keep up with your theme - subtle, but engaging You don't want to overwhelm your guests palates with fifty million flavors and varieties. You want them to be able to enjoy the food as well as the entertainment. Make sure your menu is colorful. Have some vibrant colors and also various textures. Some people like crunchy stuff, some like soft stuff, some like sweet, sour, etc. You get the point. The purpose of a party is to invite people to have a good time. Give the people what they want. There is no greater party than having good greets and good eats.