Party Survival Guide

When you're attending or hosting a party, knowing how to "survive" will make the event enjoyable.

Whether you're preparing to attend an office party or you are organizing a celebration for family and friends, you'll need to know how to get conduct yourself during the event so that you have a great time -- and your guests enjoy themselves.

Size

If you're the party host, only invite the amount of people you know you are adequately prepared to entertain. For instance, if you have a hectic schedule but want to throw a party for the holidays, it's best to invite a group of about five or 10 over for dinner so that you won't have to make extremely large amounts of food. If you're known for throwing the Christmas party every year, chances are you have the resources and planning skills to host a large crowd.

Types

As a party guest, you should be fully aware of the type of party you're attending so that you can dress and conduct yourself accordingly. For instance, if you're going to a costume party, choose party attire that is tasteful and festive, especially if colleagues from work or social organizations will be there.

Considerations

A good guest is especially social at a party, so try to talk to at least one person you don't know at the celebration so that you won't become a wallflower. However, it's important not to become too boisterous; having one or two glasses of wine at a cocktail party is acceptable, but it's not a great idea to become extremely intoxicated at any celebration, even if the party is casual.

References

• Career Know How: Office Party Survival Tips
• The Service Guide: Planning to Throw a Party?