The Best Bash in Bergen County--How to Throw a Party--Part 3

You've planned, invited, and prepared. Your house is clean, the food has been prepared and set out, and you are looking party-ready in your favorite outfit. How do we make the afternoon or evening a success? This will come down to the warmth of our welcome, the consideration we show, and the way we engage with our guests.

Our initial scenario was for an intimate dinner party, where one of the guests has an allergy to nuts and sesame. What can we do to make this night extra special? Here are a few tips:

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• Greet each guest as they arrive, and introduce them to their fellow guests. Be sure to share something you know about each person that will allow them to connect and start a conversation.

• Let your guests contribute to a playlist or create one of their own. Many music streaming services make it possible to share playlists and invite collaborators. Let your guests surprise you with a song you didn't know they loved!

• Speaking of music, keep the volume where conversation can be heard. No one likes repeating themselves or feeling like they have to shout to be heard.

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When the Conversation Stalls...

• Use conversation starters. Chat Pack offers prompts for a variety of occasions, populations, and situations. Or come up with your own!

• ‍Play a game. Whether it is trivia, a board game, or something physical--games keep the party alive, without putting a ton of pressure on your guests to make small talk. Comments will flow when someone scores a point, demonstrates a great strategy, or gives a 'good answer.'

• Karaoke! Doesn't everyone want to be a star? Your guests who don't like to sing publicly can MC the festivities.

• Do an art or craft project together. Cooperation and collaboration can build bonds, even if it is just for a short time. The physical objects that your and your guests have created will provide a tangible reminder of the fun they've had.

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At the End of the Night

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• Send guests home with a doggy bag and a recipe. If you're living with a food allergy or sensitivity, a new and delicious recipe is always welcome. Be sure and include brand names for particular ingredients, especially if they are certified allergen-free.

• Make sure your guests are able to drive home safely. When in doubt, drive them home yourself, offer to let them stay at your home, call an Uber or a Lyft. For everyone's safety, don't let your guests drive while impaired.

• Let your guests know how glad you are that they came and spent time with you. Give them a hug, wishes for a safe trip home, and affirm that you'll do it again soon!