I want to get to know my neighbors better. I’ve been living here seven years for pete’s sake. So I’m going to have a party (alcohol free).
Some of the people I’ll be inviting I’ve never even seen, most I’ve chatted with in the briefest of ways, and two are actually friends.
Do you Dopers have ideas for how I can make the party as welcoming and comfortable as possible?
Thanks!
Lots of finger food. People feel more comfortable standing around talking if they’ve got something in their hands. Drinks aside, finger food is a good way to give them something to do.
Out of curiosity, are you specifying “no alcohol”, or simply are you not supplying any alcohol to your guests? IMO, the former would make a few guests feel a little less comfortable being there.
I can tell you one thing that makes me uncomfortable is people who walk up to me when I’m sitting quietly at a party, perhaps flipping through one of the host’s books, and try to get me to dance because I’m clearly not having a good time.
In other words, making foods and warmth available is fine, but pressuring your guests into having what you think is a good time is bound to cause problems.
Some light music can certainly help. I’d start with something your guests might think of as “classy”, like Cole Porter and change later in the evening depending on the ages of your guests. Above all, don’t fret. A hovering host is a real turn-off.
…but making the house cold will keep everyone awake. I would suggest having some type of booze available, that would make the folks loosen up.