Tips on hosting or attending a festive party

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Tips on hosting or attending a festive party It’s party season again and nothing says happy holidays more than a big blowout with family and friends. But remember: with all the grand fireworks, fabulous festivities and big brunches on offer, the UAE crowd is not easily impressed. Nazli Alizadeh, account director at events management company The Events Factory, understands the growing demand for unique events experiences. “Whether it’s corporate events, weddings or birthdays, residents of the UAE like to celebrate by going all out. The UAE has a good variety of venues that can dictate event trends. Dubai especially has seen a growing trend in community events like quirky pop-up stores, and interactive entertainment like photo booths,” she notes. “It’s all about the level of interaction and engagement, and there’s an increased speed in the way technology is adopted at events, which gives a more unique sensory experience and allows for detailed customisation.” THEME UP Nazli says picking a theme is ideal because you can easily plan the catering, decoration and mood you want around it. And hiring a professional planner can take out the stress from your holiday. She suggests: “The recent James Bond movie makes a trendy yet classic theme for a New Year’s Eve party – think gorgeous evening gowns and sharp black suits. For those who are more ambitious, Star Wars is currently the talk of town so a costume party with matching food, drinks and decoration would be pretty epic. The blanc parties are always popular with white dress code and decorations, including fake snow.” OUT AND ABOUT There will be plenty of parties around town, so we can’t blame people for braving the Sheikh Zayed Road traffic this season. “Most people look for creative fireworks at the Burj Khalifa and Atlantis, concerts and traditional meals. It’s a matter of choosing a venue with a view, your type of entertainment and not to forget your budget,” Nazli says. HOMEBOUND For those who want to avoid the mass of people, an at-home get together is the way to go, with the simplest tricks to make it more interesting. “Activities such as gingerbread house decorations, karaoke, treasure hunts and Polaroids are always fun. Also get everyone to bring a Secret Santa gift.” Delegating duties, like checking for food refills or clean-up, is always helpful to the host. OFFICE PARTIES The office Christmas party is a time to let down your hair with colleagues and mingle in relaxed settings with a drink in hand; it’s also a good way to build work relationships. Nazli says: “Make the effort to get to know people from different departments. Make small talk, something as simple like complimenting the party arrangements or the guests’ outfits. If you see someone who is finding it difficult to fit in, lend a helping hand and talk to the person. And take part in any games at the party.” glaiza@7days.ae Read the original story at: Tips on hosting or attending a festive party