The thought of hosting a New Year’s Eve party can be a little daunting. But hosting one in your own home to boot? That’s downright scary! Broken lights, angry neighbors, and a grouchy landlord are just a few of the things you’ll have to fend off to host a successful party.
Follow these pro tips to make your New Year’s Eve party a success:
1. invite your neighbors
There’s nothing worse than living next door to the guy or gal who throws parties all the time. I encourage you not to be that person – instead, coordinate your party with your neighbors. Or better yet, send them an invitation! Even if they don’t come, they’ll appreciate the gesture and be a little more tolerant of the noise.
2. maximize the allocated party space
Being young in a big city has its advantages. Having to live in a tiny apartment due to budget is not one of them. Clear some space before the big night, and make sure all appropriate areas are used! Turn your coffee table into a margarita station, the kitchen into a makeshift buffet, and the bedroom into a no-go zone.
3. hide your valuables
If you don’t heed this tip, your treasure may become someone else’s trash. Clear out your valuables and stash them in a safe place! Otherwise, don’t be surprised if you wake up the next day to find that someone has used your iPad as a coaster.
4. create a resolution board
Do you want to become a better person who brushes your teeth twice a day? Do you want to lose 25 pounds? Become a fire juggler? That’s what all your friends want too! Get some poster boards and pens and ask guests to write down a resolution before the clock strikes midnight!
5. plan the big one-two
The point of a New Year’s Eve party is to celebrate the chime of midnight. So plan something special for the holiest hour of the year. Of course, there should be a TV on to watch the ball drop. Make sure you have champagne ready when the countdown ends. Just make sure you don’t get any on the floor to help you with tip number 7.
6. do your part and keep everyone safe.
Nothing else on this list is as important as making sure your guests get home safely. Encourage your friends to take an Uber, FreeNow, or cab to your party. If they drive, take their keys and keep them until the end of the night. Max went a little overboard with the sangria? Don’t give him back his keys, but call him a cab or offer him your couch.
7. and last but not least: plan the cleanup.
The best part about hosting a party? You’re guaranteed to get an invite! The worst part? Waking up with a spilled salsa on your heirloom. Be responsible and plan the cleanup long before the day of the big event! Recruit some of your friends to help you out. Offer them snacks and cocktails, and it will be hard to say no.
If you follow these tips, your night of stress and anxiety will turn into a night of joy and relaxation. There’s no better way to welcome the new year!
