Successful Holiday Gatherings – For All Ages

Cynthia Lopinto Feature Article Leave a comment 1,959 Views

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

November and December is the time of year for friends and family members to gather together for meals and holiday parties. The goal of any host is for guests to feel comfortable and have a great time. This can be challenging, especially when combining people from different social groups and varying ages. You want to make sure to accommodate the needs of all your guests, and with a little bit of planning, this can be accomplished. Try these following tips to help make this year’s holiday party a memorable time for everyone. We look at the three most important aspects of any party – seating, music and food.

Seating

Place cards are the perfect solution to put certain guests near each other. Usually people will sit next to those they already know or feel comfortable with. As the host, you can look over your guest list and see how you can mix things up a little to foster new relationships and spark up fresh conversations. Choosing the seating arrangement also allows you to stay ahead of any awkward situations that could come up. You certainly don’t want to seat your overbearing ultra-conservative uncle next to your free-thinking teenage son!

You also want to take into account anyone with mobility or hearing difficulties when seating guests. It is best to place someone who has trouble hearing in the middle of your table so they don’t feel left out or miss conversations that are taking place. Those who use a wheelchair, walker or have trouble ambulating, should sit where they can move about freely. You don’t want them to have to ask others to get up if they need to leave during the meal.

If small children are seated at the “adult table, they should be near their caregiving adult and able to reach the table. Either a high chair, booster seat or stack of books can help make things more manageable. Depending on the child, you may want to switch out your regular place setting with plasticware or child-friendly cups and plates to avoid any accidents.

Music

A party without music loses the feeling of festivity. You certainly don’t want loud blaring music that will get in the way of conversations between guests. Your best bet is pleasing background music that is consistent throughout the zones of your party. The worst is when you are standing in one section and the music is uncomfortably loud and you can’t even hear it in another area.

Different types of music during your party can also help to set the tone. Fun and upbeat music as people arrive will get guests into a party mood. Softer music during the meal will allow for an easy flow of talking back and forth between diners.

Holiday music playing for your December parties is a common choice. You can mix traditional holiday tunes with more contemporary pieces so everyone will feel included. There are some beautiful jazz or classical holiday music that would be a great accompaniment during the meal. Frequently hosts like incorporating an occasional holiday tune in with their regular music so to be more eclectic. Today we are all exposed to holiday music playing so early in the season. Many may be tired of hearing only that genre.

Food

Food is a critical part of a memorable party. You want to make sure you are aware of any food allergy issues or dietary restrictions among your guests. By sending a simple email or text you can find out if someone has any special needs relating to food. If you are having guests bring dishes, you can ask those with specific food requirements to bring something they can eat. That way you both will be sure of something they will be able to eat. It is a good idea to serve toppings, sauces, and garnishes on the side to make food choices that much easier.

If you are putting food out buffet-style, make sure to label certain foods that have “trigger” ingredients that may be a problem for guests. Put out separate serving utensils to rule out cross contamination between dishes. It is also a good idea to have a few vegetarian, vegan, and nut-free dishes just in case you have some last-minute drop-ins show up. This way you are covered and all guests can partake on these choices.

For small children or older diners that may have trouble eating certain types of food, make sure you have options that will work. Sometimes finger foods or soft dishes are best for those having issues chewing or cutting up large portion sizes. This way you don’t have to draw attention to guests that may be embarrassed by their situation. Also, make sure all hot dishes are far away from those who could easily spill and burn themselves.

Another great idea is to have some throwaway take-out containers for leftovers. Right after the meal, have guests put together portions to take home. They can label these servings and put them in the refrigerator until they leave. This is especially nice for those who live alone and can look forward to having a meal or two in the upcoming days ahead. This cuts down on cleanup too. The more food your guests bring home, the less you have to deal with. Just make sure to keep a certain amount of leftovers for yourself!!

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.