THE PERFECT DYNAMIC
Creating an easy atmosphere at a large Christmas function can take a little balance
Christmas is a time when our house is descended upon by what can at times be an eclectic mix of people.
From relatives and their partners to distant family members who appear once a year, as well as your partner’s family or even your children’s friends who have been taken in for the day, it can be a varied mix of guests.
One trick to getting the dynamic right between a group of people who may not normally spend much time together (or even be meeting for the first time), is to create some comfortable spaces in the settting.
Nothing is more awkward than sitting around a facing table for the entirety of the day, with nothing but the crickets — if conversation isn’t flowing!
A good way to avoid this uncomfortable situation is to have multiple areas for your guests to congregate.
Naturally you will all come together at the dining table for the actual main meal, however there are plenty of hours to fill on either side of this.
Cushions, a throw rug or picnic blanket on the lawn is a great way to create a less formal space.
A kiddies table gives the parents a break and fosters interaction between all the children present.
And even some standing tables or clusters of chairs at spots around the house, garden or deck can make the atmosphere festive and laidback.
This will ultimately allow everyone to relax that little bit more and let conversations be started and flow naturally.