Oh the weather outside is FRIGHTFUL.
So instead, let's take the party to our place.
If you, like many of us are thinking of skipping the pub tonight and instead opting to host the party yourself, then fear not we are here to help.
As our funds are at a serious stretch (we mean we are basically sh*t broke), we have compiled a list of 10 helpful tips so you can still be the hostess with the mostess.
Now without further adieu, here's 10 tips to save the day.
10. Don't buy champagne
Big no. Instead opt for Prosecco or Cava. It's cheaper, it still looks good in a flute glass and it's all about the fizz at the end of the day anyways.
9. Make the party BYOB
This goes without saying. Obviously have a few bottles of fizz for the big countdown and the initial arrival of your guests, but don't play waitress topping up their drinks all night long. No no. Instead mention to all your friends that you will have drinks on the night, but it would be best if everyone brought what they like to drink as you are not sure of everyones taste. Success.
8. Make your own decor
No need to spend insane money on loads of signs and postage that say "Happy New Year"... we all know why we are gathering. Instead make sure your Christmas tree is in your hosting room, wrap some fairy lights around the place (stairs, mantlepiece etc) and maybe invest €2 in a few packets of confetti and voila - you are sorted.
7. Order takeaway
Instead of cooking a big lavish meal, that will only induce stress and pain on you and your wallet, wait until your guests arrive and get a takeaway together, that way everyone is eating together, chipping in on the main cost and there is no disgusting clean-up. Hurrah!
6. Buy cheap nibbles
People nowadays seem to go OTT on house party nibbles. Nobody eats that 6kg bag of salted nuts, WHY are you buying them? Nobody likes those fancy-pants seed sticks, leave em' off. Instead a few nachos and dips, a bit of cheese and grapes is ALL you need to get.
5. Limit the friends list
We know you love Sarah's cousin Billy's wife Mags but does she really NEED to be at the party? Limit the list to your nearest and dearest in order to keep the night a non-costly one. We know it seems harsh but look desperate times...
4. Use the music channel as your DJ
Don't have speakers? Don't have a DJ? No problem. I live by using my music channels off my telly as my personal DJ, they provide nice background noise plus you never have to worry about changing song. Ideal.
3. Stash a few deserts in the freezer
It is a nice touch to have a few deserts after your dinner and it doesn't have to cost much either. A few tubs of vanilla ice-cream, some melted Christmas leftover plain chocolate and some crushed up Crunchie bars make the most mouth-watering honeycomb dessert for less than €5 plus you'll look like a kitchen goddess!
2. Start the party later
No need to invite your guests over too early, we get you're excited but you will run out of food and bubbles and the night will feel like a drag for everyone. My key advice - 8pm is early enough.
1. Have fun
OK - I know I sound like a cringe mom but seriously, the root of all successful events is down to the people who make it. If your running around stressed that people won't have a good time, well then guess what... they won't. Instead, sit back, relax and enjoy. You got this girlo.
Less stress, more success and all that jazz!
Enjoy.
