The Holidays are not the holidays without a few parties. Some are with friends, some are with family and some are with co-workers.
Those celebrations, while fun, can be tricky affairs to manage.
David Watts, an event planner and director of the Keep Memory Alive Event Center at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, says it is important to keep everything professional at an office holiday party.
One of the biggest problems is drinking too much. Watts advises people stick to a two drink maximum. He also suggests that an office hands out drink tickets instead of allowing an open bar.
Another big no-no is dressing inappropriately. Women, in particular, will decide to wear something that is too tight or too revealing. He says it is important to remember you’re at an office party not at a nightclub.
And keep the conversation light and fun. Don’t get into a negative conversation with the boss about problems in the company. It is the boss’s party too, if you are going chat with him or her make sure you keep it positive.
While most of us will go to at least one holiday party, some of us will actually be hosting one. James Reza is a columnist for Vegas Seven magazine and a business owner, perhaps most importantly, he hosts an annual holiday party that has reached the “legendary” status.
For the last 15 years, James Reza has hosted about 150 to 160 people in his home every year.
He says make sure to have lots of food and beverages and a good guest list.
He advises the host introduce guests to other guests with a little bit about who they are, how the host knows the guest, what the guest does for a living plus one interesting tidbit.
He says a host must love hosting the party or it will be a bust.
Reza says overall the host should provide a seamless experience for his or her guests. Having easy access to food, beverages, the trash can and bathrooms is vital, Reza said.
It may be the host’s party but really it’s the guests’ experience that counts.
Reza says to keep guests from drinking too much, don’t pour too much. Offer only a few drink choices like beer and wine.
If someone does drink too much, the host should take responsibility, get the guest’s keys and call a cab.
Guests:
David Watts, director, Keep Memory Alive Events Center at the Lou Ruvo Events Center
James Reza, columnist for Vegas Seven magazine and business owner, host of "legendary" party
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