With the final entry for this year, looking forward and looking back, it’s all weddings all the time and I’ve decided to depart from that for a moment. I’ve spent countless hours scouring resources to bring you trends and ideas, inspiration and empowerment all toward a single end: The ideal ceremony and reception. In short, a big day, as big or small as you want, done the way you dreamed.
Yet, it would make sense that anything you can do at a wedding, you can do just for the heck of it. New Years Eve, for instance. It’s a bit late for a 2014 New Years Eve planning session, but there is always next year and if you feel up to it, I’ve got a couple suggestions to roll around in your head while you tour the galas tomorrow night.
As you move from party to party throughout Toronto and the GTA, make note of those do’s and don’t you find most glaring, most apparent and squirrel them away for next Autumn’s NYE plans. It’s always easier to see the big picture when it’s someone else putting on the show, so take advantage of your birds-eye-view and engage your senses and take a snapshot or two. Objectivity is always more difficult is when your party-reputation is on the line.
Moving forward, away from spying on your besties and planning party revenge and utter domination of NYE 2015. How about some practical ideas for making every NYE a successful night whether you throw the party, help plan or just attend.
There are so many pragmatic considerations for any NYE bash that we could stay here all night but lets get the basics taken care of:
Weather – You may or may not need to provide door to door access so your guests are not required to traverse a bitter cold night just to get to you. Valet service is practical and though somewhat pricey adds an air of civilized elegance to any party. If you feel so inclined, everyone’s Christmas present can be you picking up the tab as well. If you want to Scrooge them all out of twelve bucks that’s your business, but they’ll be sure to mention it at brunch the following afternoon.
Multiple Commitment-itis – Your party isn’t the only party. Deal with it. Make sure you have a decent number of committed friends and guests to make the atmosphere inviting without being overwhelming. You don’t want people showing up to a barren desolate alien party-landscape or an over-crowded uncomfortable sweat-box. Provide some type of egress for all involved. A warmed patio or mezzanine area to cool off in and get some privacy or cool off from dancing. NYE is often a last chance at romance and it isn’t romantic to scream directly into someone’s ear canal, create a quiet space and your love-crazy guests will thank you..
Making Fun – You are moving out of one stage and into another and it’s time to send off the old year. Whether in playful defiance of some bad luck, optimism for better or a celebration of a phenomenal run and the hope to keep that momentum. So muted, solemn and bland are not in your palette this time. A reserved dinner-party might be your style but that means you should stop reading here and have a nap. Make it exciting and give your guests a space that encourages fun. Photo booths for commemoration, engaging food options that are healthy or indulgent or both, alternative performances like fire-dancers or acrobats, and of course good all-night music. Avoid having an empty dance floor when the ball drops by packing it with happy energetic people.
After-party – Provide multiple options for your guests to make it home safely. Safe-limo services, cab chits through a per-arranged contract with a local taxi or livery service, deals on rooms in the area planned out well in advance or a block reserved just in case. It might cost you a bit more but it’ll make sure the night isn’t marred by tragedy like so many that we hear of. Have a dedicated designated driver or drivers who are ready to take people home in their own vehicle and have a friend follow. It might seem like an imposition or a lot of planning in lieu of just having fun, but your guests will thank you, and you’ll see them the following year, in good health.
Whatever your plans, designs or dreams – GPS Decors in Mississauga, Brampton and all throughout the Greater Toronto Area is the dedicated friend you need to give attention to each and every last detail, to give you and your guests the most immersive experiences and stress-free event. Contact us day or night to begin handcrafting your next wedding, engagement party or celebration.