So many of us are tentatively thinking about hosting holiday parties and get-togethers again. Trouble is, we've been cooped up for a while and forgotten the protocol. Never fear. Our REALTORS® are right on target for holiday etiquette and present these tips to help you get back in the swing.

No worries if you make a holiday faux pas or two in that freshly decorated home you chose from Beavercreek homes for sale. Your guests will be delighted at all the things you get just right.

1. Plan food that's easy to prepare.
   Don't wear yourself out the day of the party preparing elaborate, complicated dishes. You'll be amazed at the quality of appetizers you can find in frozen foods at the supermarket. If you have a healthy budget, you might even talk to a caterer or look at holiday party specials from restaurants.
   
   
2. Keep the flow going.
   Sketch on paper how your guests will flow. Will it be obvious where to go once they're inside the door? Will there be a pile-up at the drinks table? What's the best way to keep people moving and avoid traffic jams? Move furniture if you have to. Set out small tables strategically with refreshments to avoid people bunching up in your small kitchen.
   
   
3. Position food and drink in plain sight.
   Your guests may not know what they're expected to do, so they'll look for cues. What's everyone else doing? Placing food, drink, plates, cups, and napkins in easy access will help orient them. Don't make your guests go rummaging around in your kitchen, looking for things.
   
   
4. Introduce your guests.
   Try not to leave those guests who might not know anyone else alone. Think before the party starts how you might introduce solo guests to others so they'll feel comfortable.
   
   
5. Mix alcoholic drinks in a pitcher before the party starts.
   You don't want to stand there all night mixing drinks, growing resentful that you're not getting to mingle. So unless you want to hire a bartender, mix up your alcoholic drinks before the party starts so folks can just pour out what they want.
   
   
6. Have non-alcoholic drinks on hand for the teetotalers.
   Do provide something other than water. You might serve coffee, sodas, or flavored zero sugar soda water. Your guests will appreciate having some choices.
   
   
7. Don't worry about seating everyone.
   Don't have enough seating for everyone you're inviting? No problem. Most people will be content standing up, moving around the room, and chatting with the other guests. If you are inviting older people or anyone who may be challenged to stand up very long, make sure they have an opportunity to sit down. Usually, as the guests depart through the evening, more seating will be available where people can linger and chat.
   
   
8. Check the thermostat.
   Even in winter, it can get very stuffy with the central heating on, or a fire in the fireplace, with all those bodies. Crack open a window or two, turn down the thermostat, or turn on the ceiling fans to keep the air fresh.
   
   
9. Stock the bathroom.
   Make sure there's plenty of toilet paper, room air spray and matches, soap for washing hands, and clean towels in easy access so guests won't have to look for these items.
   
   
10. Enlist help.
    Ask a friend or relative to help with the set-up and then direct traffic while you answer the door, greet new arrivals, and get the party going.

Our real estate staff has solid experience on how to get the most out of your Beavercreek home. Contact us today.