With the right elements, a party can take on a life of its own. Every gathering is different, though, and some require a bit more encouragement than others. That’s why I always have some tricks up my sleeve to get things rolling.
It sounds simple, but people need a common experience to bring them together—to get them talking, dancing, and flirting. This could be anything from a costume to an unusual canapé.
Serve a salty snack at the beginning of your party. Everyone will be that much thirstier.
Have a specialty drink or two. It’s the easiest talking point. Introduce one early to loosen up your guests, and then bring out another one later in the evening to surprise their palate.
Change something every 20 minutes. Introduce a new canapé, vary the music tempo, or dim the lights—anything to make your guests feel like they are on a journey that alters course throughout the evening.
Guests need personal interaction and contact with the host. If your party is going to be so large that you will be unable to talk to everyone, recruit your two best friends to be party ambassadors. Have them greet guests at the door, pass out late-night nibbles, mix the party punch, change the playlist, and take photos. They can stand in for you and keep the energy flowing.
For a seated dinner, spontaneously have your guests change seats. Prepare two seating charts, and after the first course make everyone switch seats.
Situate the bar away from the entrance. Nothing stops a party faster than bottlenecking at the door.
Always have a playlist ready on your smartphone. “Ride Wit Me” by Nelly can save the night.
Offer refreshments in a unique way. I like to serve Champagne or vodka in a bucket of snow. You could also set up tastings of vodka, bourbon, and rye, or a build-your-own-margarita station with grapefruit, ginger, watermelon, cucumber, and habanero.
As it gets later, pass out glow sticks and flip-flops so there is no excuse to stop dancing.
