The holiday season is upon us and Christmas parties are an everyday occurrence, which means indulging in food and drinks. If you’re planning to throw a party, bear in mind there will always be guests who will reach for booze as a way to get in a good mood.
As a host, it’s part of your job to make sure your guests and don’t leave the party drunk or unable to drive. Some of them may be alcoholics or going through recovery but are surrounded by temptations.
When limiting the amount of alcohol consumption isn’t an option, there are other ways to encourage your guests to drink responsibly and avoid intoxication.
Keep reading to discover the 4 most effective ways to throw the best Christmas party and still be a responsible host.
1. Have Plenty of Food Available
The more food and snacks you have available, the less drunk people will be at the party. Alcohol is a simple sugar that your digestive system absorbs almost instantly if you don’t consume food with it. This means alcohol enters the bloodstream quickly and you get drunk more easily.
If you’re wondering what to eat before drinking, serve high-protein and starchy foods such as cheese, potatoes, meat, vegetables, and bread. These can all slow down the alcohol absorption in the body.
2. Have Activities and Games Planned
Upbeat music and socialization are the foundation of a great party, but if you want to be a responsible host, have some activities planned for your guests.
This will keep them occupied for a good chunk of the time and they won’t reach for a drink like they would if they’re bored. Try to keep the guests moving around the rooms by placing the furniture farther from the snacks and drinks.
3. Don’t Force Your Guests to Drink
As a host, you want your guests to have a good time and enjoy your food and drinks. However, be careful with offering them a drink anytime their glass is empty. Most people may not want a refill but are too polite to say no to you.
You can offer them food and snacks, but when it comes to drinks, let them decide how much they want to drink and when.
4. Close the Party
If you want your guests to stop drinking, close the party with coffee and non-alcoholic drinks. This will let them know the party is coming to an end and will give them at least an hour to sober up.
If there are people who are unable to drive or get home on their own, offer them a cab fare or a place to sleep but do not, under any circumstances, allow them to drive while intoxicated.
Help Your Party Guests Drink Responsibly and Still Have Fun!
The holidays are the best time for partying and having fun, but if you’re hosting a party, you need to make sure your guests drink responsibly.
Have plenty of food and snacks available, set aside money for taxis, and offer non-alcoholic drinks as your party closes.
For more tips on throwing epic parties everyone will talk about, check out our blog.