Hosting a party can be a challenge for the less experienced party planner. You have to organise food, drink, music and entertainment and keep the guests happy. This can be quite stressful at times. Often, as an inexperienced host, you overlook important details that can be a bit embarrassing. Whether it's a small get-together or a huge party, these are the most common mistakes a host makes:
You forget to introduce the guests to each other. If you are expecting guests who don't already know each other, introduce them. This can be awkward for the guests if they have to take care of it themselves.
Introducing the guests makes them feel welcome. If a new guest arrives, briefly introduce them to everyone by name and briefly explain how you know each other. This gives the guests a starting point for conversation.
Do not inform the neighbours. It is only fair to warn the neighbours to expect voices and music. The most embarrassing thing would be if the neighbours or even the police rang your doorbell because of the volume.
Give the neighbours one to two weeks' notice so that they can possibly plan the evening themselves. Neighbours are more tolerant of the loudness of a party if they have been warned in advance.
No alcohol or only alcohol. Alcohol is not a must, but many expect a glass of wine or beer at a party. Alcohol can break the ice and create a relaxed atmosphere; it makes guests feel more comfortable. However, not everyone wants to drink alcohol and certainly not all evening long. Give guests enough non-alcoholic alternatives such as juices, colas and non-alcoholic cocktails.
Tip: Serve each guest their first drink and tell them where they can get a refill.
The host gets drunk. As the host, you are responsible for how the party goes and should not drink too much alcohol. Drink a glass of water after each glass of alcohol.
Not enough food. Another party faux pas is not having enough food. Your food doesn't need to be fancy, but make sure every guest is full. Provide enough snacks in buffet form and give guests choices so that everyone can find something they like. For the main meals, take into account the preferences of the guests and consider any vegetarians or people of other religions who do not eat certain foods.
Forcing food on guests. Guests want to relax and not be constantly pressured to eat more. You can offer to let them have it once, but that should be enough.
Clean up during the party. If guests spill, don't overreact. Don't make the guests feel more embarrassed than they already are. Save the big clean-up and tidying for after the party.
Being unprepared when guests want to stay overnight with you. One or the other may have a long way to go or may have had a little too much to drink. Prepare a place to sleep as a precaution.
Too many rules. Too many rules and pre-prepared party activities can give the party a forced feel. Have a programme of entertainment in place to get the party going, but be flexible to how the party develops.
No music. Music puts you in a good mood and relaxes the atmosphere. But you shouldn't hang around the stereo all evening putting on new songs. Make yourself a long playlist or get someone else to do it. Also consider the musical tastes of your guests.
