How many times have you gotten all dressed up for a big night on the town for New Year’s Eve, only to feel that the evening didn’t quite live up to the hype? This year, take the pressure off! Invite friends over for a casual appetizer potluck— with a few surprises thrown in for festive cheer.
[the scene]
>> Just because you’re throwing a casual party doesn’t mean you can’t make it festive. String starry twinkle lights around banisters, curtain rods or mirrors for a nice glow.
>> Sleek black and gold are sophisticated choices for New Year’s. Etsy.com has an abundance of decorations in that color palette, from confetti to banners and everything in between.
[the eats]
>> Often, appetizers are the best part of the meal, packing a lot of flavor in small bites, so why prepare a big, elaborate dinner? Ask guests to each bring their favorite appetizer. To ensure there is a good mix of light and heavy options, provide a few crudites platters yourself.
>> Guests will likely nibble more heavily at the beginning of the evening, but also might get hungry after the ball drops. If your soiree will stretch into the wee hours, consider pulling out some breakfast-themed bites, such as baked French toast that can be prepared in advance and thrown into the oven shortly before serving to avoid sending guests home with rumbling stomachs.
[the drinks]
>> Champagne is the classic drink used to toast the new year. Make a game of it by holding a blind champagne testing. Purchase different varieties, including a few bottles of the real deal from France, and have guests vote on their favorites.
>> Many people might not want to imbibe the bubbly all night long. Place ice buckets full of different beers around the party area, and have a few bottles of wine at the ready.
[the fun extras]
>> Nothing begs for a little reflection like the start of a new year. Have guests write predictions for 2015 on a slip of paper. Read them aloud, and have guests take turns guessing who penned them. For a funnier spin, have people write the most embarrassing or funny thing that happened to them in 2014.
>> If youngsters are included, set them up in the basement with games and a few movies. Consider renting a popcorn machine to keep the kiddie snacks flowing.
>> Don’t send guests home empty-handed! Purchase mini bottles of champagne and a box of Bissinger’s chocolate-dipped oranges (bissingers.com).
