Planning a cocktail party requires outstanding organizational skills that will make the party memorable. It is not that hard to plan and you don’t have to have really deep pockets to make it rock.

The year ender party to shine also needs a good host who knows how to make people enjoy themselves to the maximum.

Cocktail parties are easier to host since they do not require too much commitment in making them colorful.

 The end of the year is the perfect time to host people and serve them with food or snacks and beverages like wine, beer, champagne, liquors and soft drinks. It is simply celebrating life and the year you are lucky to have made it to.

When planning your party, a creative theme can make the party special. Most parties usually make dress code color themes that people are supposed to follow. It’s really exciting being in a place where people are wearing different outfits but all in the same color.

Before kicking off your party make sure you select a menu and be sure to check out exactly the amount of food and drinks required.

Noting down your guest list is very essential before the party starts. You could send out invitation cards or simply call or text your guests. You can also use social networks such as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace to alert people on your forthcoming party. Try not to wait for the last minute as you can’t be sure what other plans people have.

Most importantly, champagne shouldn’t be left out. It is ‘the’ New Year’s drink and should be served the second the clock strikes 12:00am. Make sure everyone already has a glass poured for them.

You could learn to make a few fruit cocktails too.  All-natural ingredients include fruit and vegetable juices. Be sure to stock on ice too. Have a variety of beers available for your guests. it’s quite embarassing when your guests start looking for drinks from the nearest bars and retail stores.

One thing that should also be in plenty is food. A party without food is hardly a party. Some people think parties are all about the drinks but that is not the case.

The party should also have different clocks around the place set in different times of different cities around the world and celebrate each time when the clock strikes midnight.

Have fun with your guests and get confetti packages for each guest to throw when the clock strikes midnight.

Finally do not forget that you have a responsibility and that is to watch that your guests do not drink too much. Celebrate yes, but not to the point where everyone is throwing up. Serve plenty of food and encourage them to take water between beverages. If guests drink too much, be sure to have a designated driver available, or offer them the guest room or sofa!

That said, have some fun and enjoy the New year.

I wish you a happy and prosperous 2012!!

frank.kanyesigye@newtimes.co.rw                                On twitter frank_kay3