Hosting a NYE party this weekend? We’ve got you covered with great tips to help you stay organized and host the perfect party.

1. Plan ahead

Once you have an idea of how many guests will be attending, start planning out your supplies: party favours, themed tableware, entertainment and food. If you’re hosting a large number of people, disposable glassware is your new best friend. Save time on dishes with disposable champagne flutes, cutlery, plates and napkins. Improve your party favour and décor this year with classy colour palettes such as black and white paired with metallic gold or silver. Noise makers, hats and confetti are always a must. Think about your entertainment for the evening – create a music playlist and source out some fun games for guests to enjoy together. When it comes to food, make it easier on yourself by asking friends and family to each bring an appy or if you’re supplying the food, BYOB parties are perfect to help keep costs down.

Shopping checklist:

• Party hats – mix of hats and tiaras
• Favours – noise makers + confetti
• Décor – balloons, hanging signs, streamers
• Themed tableware – plates, napkins, cups, champagne flutes, cutlery
• Champagne for midnight
• Appetizers – potluck style?
• Drinks – BYOB?
• Entertainment – game supplies

2. Set the mood

Greet your guests by exchanging their coats for a welcome drink. This is the perfect way to start off the evening and show appreciation for your guests. Champagne mimosas or punch are great options for easy welcome drinks. Be sure your music is already on before guests arrive and dim the lights slightly to set the mood. You may even wish to light winter-scented candles to make things even cozier. For your music playlist, start things off with a more festive theme and build up energy as midnight approaches. People love watching the countdown at Times Square – turn your TV to your favourite countdown channel and have it on mute so people can watch in the background.

3. Offer a safe ride home option

End the perfect evening with some safe ride options for your guests if they have too much to drink. Prepare your spare room just incase of an overnight guest and have taxi numbers ready (be sure to call cabs well in advance as it can take 1-2 hours on NYE). Consider other options like Operation Red Nose or Designated Driver Service.