Avoid a fizzer this New Year
New Year’s Eve parties often don’t live up to expectation. But with a little effort and forward planning, they can be a night full of jubilant celebration. Claire Donaldson, event styler and party planner from One Lovely Day, says special touches are the difference between a good party and a great one.
‘‘They don’t have to be massive,’’ she says. ‘‘A tray by the front door with pre-poured champagne glasses or cocktails and a little welcome sign gives a great first impression.’’
She also says it’s important to keep guests busy. ‘‘Stagger your night, first with mingling, then break it up with food, then maybe throw in some entertainment. Even if it is just good music or a few speeches or the arrival of dessert.’’
And for the big countdown? ‘‘Letting off confetti bombs at midnight is a must.’’
Food
The biggest mistake is not having enough food. ‘‘Turning your dining or outdoor table into a grazing station is great. Put wild greenery or a floral arrangement in the middle and then pile the nibbles up around so guests can get to it from both sides.‘‘
When she’s hosting at home, Olivia Carter, events manager at Soul Bar, stocks her freezer with goodies that can easily be popped in the oven and brought out at 11pm. ‘‘Who doesn’t love a sausage roll, mini quiche and party pie to get you through?’’
Drinks
Donaldson says a good bar set-up is important. Load it up with everything guests will need over the night, such as glassware, large tubs of ice and bottled drinks (including non-alcoholic options) and bowls of garnishes such as lemons, mint and strawberries.
‘‘Cocktails are a winner,’’ agrees Carter. ‘‘Make them simple to produce, such as spiced rum, ginger beer and fresh mint or vodka, ruby red grapefruit, fresh lime and mint. It looks so special but is quick and easy to pull together and you can have so much of this pre-cut and ready to go.’’
Donaldson also advises hosts to think about the practical things. ‘‘Bottle openers – tie them down, they always walk,’’ she says. ‘‘Recycle bins tucked discretely under the bar are also helpful and the bar doesn’t become a stack of empties.’’
Decor
Donaldson says it’s best to put effort into just a few areas.
‘‘Dress the bar, the food area and throw in some good lighting as you will all be up into the wee hours. A whole load of helium balloons floating along your roof line makes a simple but effective impact – the oversized or letter ones are always fun.’’
Entertainment
The entertainment at Soul Bar is legendary, but if you can’t organise dancing girls and a saxophonist to show up at your place Carter suggests at least taking the time to put a good playlist together.
‘‘Nothing sets the mood more than good music! Have something chilled and jazzy to start (or whatever your tastes are) but make sure you have that playlist of old school sing along tunes ready to go at the press of the button.’’
Donaldson adds the most important thing is for you to remember to have fun yourself. ‘‘If you’re having fun, mostly likely your guests will be having a ball.’’