Hostess Elixirs

I love this time of year so much in part because of all of the great festivities! I admire the folks who work to make sure that party attendees enjoy themselves. Charity holiday events, work parties, and the home-based affairs all take plenty of planning from the menus and decorations to the games and party favors. Here are some helpful hints to help you have a great party this year:

1. Many of the company and charity Christmas, Kwaanza and Chanukah parties are done but friends will be having Kwaanza observances for each of the seven days and New Year's Eve is just around the corner. And because the focus of the former is on the children, you'll want them to definitely be learning as well as enjoying. Chatham Hill has great board games like Nguzo Saba to help everyone reinforce the principles.

2. If you are monitoring purchases, why not set up a chess board? Children love the game and it gives them needed alternatives to video game entertainment.

3. When guests offer to help, graciously accept by mentioning that Whole Foods has a great salad bar with a dish that can be brought or other pot luck dish. Your guests won't think any less of you, I promise :).

4. Buy items in bulk if you can. Many grocers, wine distributors and other retailers will give you a discount that makes the larger purchase worth it.

5. Get a great playlist that will last as long as your guests; ask a friend with a talent for song to perform a tune to help entertain...and oh yes--have fun!