Top 10 Tips for Responsible Hosting
You want to entertain, but aren't
sure where to begin? Great parties don't just
happen by chance. They're the result of careful,
detailed planning.
Why take chances? Reduce the risks
of alcohol-related problems when entertaining
and help ensure guests arrive home safely by
following these 10 tips for responsible hosting:
10. Don't plan physical activities
when you serve alcohol. People are generally
more prone to injury or mishap after drinking.
09. Always provide low-alcohol
and alcohol-free beverages, such as Mocktails,
non-alcoholic punch, pop, bottled water, tea
and coffee.
08. Serve snacks with drinks and
always have food available throughout the party
to avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Avoid
serving salty, sweet or greasy snack foods as
guests will become thirstier. High-starch and
protein foods such as meats, veggies, cheeses,
light dips and breads are good choices.
07. Be prepared for overnight
guests.
06. Serve drinks yourself or designate
a bartender instead of having an open bar, as
guests usually drink more when they serve themselves.
Avoid serving doubles and keep a shot glass
or jigger next to the bottles - good measurement
makes all the difference.
05. Have a plan to deal with any
guest who drinks too much. Before the party,
ask someone reliable to help you keep things
under control.
04. Find out how guests will be
getting home from your party. Promote the use
of designated drivers and keep cash and telephone
numbers on hand for taxis. Encourage your guests
to leave their cars at home and take public
transportation, cabs, or walk. Be prepared to
take away car keys. Never drink and drive or
ride with anyone who has been drinking.
03. Stop serving alcoholic beverages
at least an hour before the party is over. Bring
out more alcohol-free drinks (bottled water,
juice, coffee and tea) and food. Remember that
having coffee after drinking doesn't make you
sober.
02. Plan ahead so that it's easy
to follow this advice.
and the number one party
tip is...
01. Don't drink too much yourself.
As the host, you can stay on top of, and avoid,
potential problems when you can think more clearly
and act more quickly.
