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serving you decide be sure that there is plenty of food and drink to accommodate various likes and needs. Include healthier options for guests who may be watching their weight or have medical restrictions. Be sure that if you choose to serve alcohol there are still plenty of non-alcoholic options for those that do not choose to drink.

If you decide to serve food buffet style, put small bowls of dips and snacks that need to be refrigerated out at a time and refill them as necessary so that what is on the table is always fresh and free of bacteria.

4. Don't forget the necessities

When planning your party, be sure to remember the basic needs your guests will encounter. Do you have an easily accessible place to store their coats? Make sure your bathroom is neat and tidy and that there is extra toilet paper accessible as well as a garbage can in the bathroom. It's also a good idea to be sure there is scented candle burning so the bathroom remains inviting throughout the party. Be sure there is an easily accessible garbage can for your guest's plates and silverware if you are using disposable products. If you have pets, be sure to warn guests that may not be familiar with your home and have allergy medicine on hand in case they need it. If you have any guests attending that are smokers, be sure there is an area they will be able to smoke and dispose of their butts, whether it be inside or outside.

5. Make your party unique with a theme

If your are looking for a way to make your holiday party really stand out from the crowd, try incorporating a theme. Christmas cookie exchange parties are a fun way to get your guests involved by asking them each to bring a dozen cookies. All the cookies then get set out and each guest must take home a sack of a dozen cookies of their choosing. This is a fun way to try all your friends favorite recipes and provides and easy conversation starter if guests don't know each other very well. Another fun theme is a tree trimming party. Just invite your guests over to help you trim your tree, or ask each guest to bring a single ornament and place it on a tree when they arrive. Not only will you have a fun party, but you'll end up with a uniquely decorated tree with pieces from each of your friends and family. If you are looking for something really different, make your holiday gathering a costume party and ask guests to dress up like their favorite holiday icon (Santa, Rudolph, George Bailey, Frosty, etc).

The most essential part of any holiday party is to make your guests feel welcome and to celebrate the season with friends and family. Greet each of your guests and tell them how much it means to you that the chose to celebrate the holidays with you and they will be sure to fondly remember your holiday gathering.

Learn more about this author, Lynette Thrasher.
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