Throw The Perfect Holiday Party

It’s time to hang the lights, dust off the china, pull out favorite recipes and get set to throw the perfect bash. In fact, more people would probably get into the party spirit if throwing a holiday shindig weren’t so much trouble.

Although nearly half of Americans report experiencing stress during the holidays, according to a recent Gallup survey, holiday entertaining should be an enjoyable form of self-expression. Entertaining at home can be made much easier by knowing how to use common household items to dress up your party, foregoing the need for lots expensive or time-consuming decorations.

“Whether you’re having the in-laws over for brunch or hosting an elaborate cocktail party with co-workers, entertaining can be simple and fun if you plan ahead and take inventory of your belongings,” said Robert Zollweg, creative director for Libbey Inc., a leading provider of tableware products. “Everyday household items, such as martini and wine glasses as well as forgotten dishes, can be transformed into elegant conversation pieces, making it quick and easy to make a lasting impression on your guests.”

For your next holiday gathering, try one of these simple tips from the entertaining experts at Libbey:

*Cut down on the holiday chores by throwing a themed holiday pre-party with friends, such as a bake-off, tree decorating or gift wrapping party.

*To engage guests, set up a do-it-yourself bar. Instead of the old standby, make it a hot cocoa or eggnog bar. Offer different liquors, toppings and recipe starters.

*Take photos of guests throughout the night. Use them for a holiday scrapbook or send them to guests in their holiday card.

*Set up a station where guests can make their own wine charm. Have on hand a variety of charms, ornaments, stones and beads. It also makes a great keepsake.

*Play old holiday movies on a projector or flat screen with the sound muted. This makes for a simple and fun backdrop.

*For an easy centerpiece, fill a clear bowl with greens, kumquats, oranges, crab apples or multicolored glass ornaments. Finish with holiday greenery or seasonal flowers.

*Fill drinking glasses – stemless wine glasses work great – with decorative stones, then place a tea light inside.

Or turn traditional wine glasses upside down and use them as candleholders.

*Fill beer pilsners with nuts, mints and other candy and use ribbon to tie a bow at the stem. Place glasses throughout the house so guests can munch while mingling.

Whether for an elaborate dinner party or an impromptu get-together, simple touches can make any bash more festive.