How to Host the Perfect Small New Year’s Eve Gathering

Group of friends toasting to the new year with champagne glasses and confetti

New Year’s Eve is truly a magical night -- it is time for both reflections and resolutions, fireworks and, of course, bubbly! That said, it can be stressful trying to find the perfect way to celebrate.

Over the years, I’ve attended big hotel parties, grabbed beers at dive bars, eaten in swanky restaurants, and attended First Night festivities, and I’ve found that the best way to celebrate is with an intimate gathering at home.

So, if you are still struggling to make plans for New Year’s Eve, here are some tips to plan a fun, memorable gathering in your home.

limit the guest count

Keep the guest list small -- we suggest 8 to 10 of your favorite humans. You want to make sure you invite enough people to warrant a “party,” but keep it small enough that you can spend quality time with everyone.

choose a theme will keep the food stress-free

This is a night for fun, not stress, and we love the idea of having a fiesta night. Ask your guest to bring appetizers, like chips, salsa, guacamole, etc. to create a nacho station to snack on all evening. Then, at midnight, surprise your guests with a taco bar. If Mexican isn’t your thing, we have some other ideas on our Pinterest page, including a yummy mac ‘n’ cheese bar.

bubbles are a MUST

New Year’s Eve is all about the champagne! If you aren’t sure what to serve, here are some great suggestions. While we’ve never experienced having leftover champagne, this year we may buy an extra bottle just to try a fun recipe. Champagne risotto, anyone?

keep the night light and fun!

On NYE, it’s very likely that your guests are up for just about anything -- why not dance and giggle your way into 2020? Curate a lively playlist (if you need help, Spotify has tons of options) and play some classic charades. Or set up a photo booth with a polaroid and some props so your guests can leave the party with memories that will last a lifetime.

make a mini time capsule

Have all your guests write their 2020 predictions, dreams, or resolutions on a piece of paper, put them in a jar, and read them when you host again next year!

Cheers to a magical 2020!

XOXO, LJE