Guest Essay: Expert Tips and Tricks for Great Holiday Gatherings

My friend Mary Bartlett, writer and author of Throw a Great Party, among other works, recently posted an essay about how to host a gathering. I thought it was incredibly appropriate, not only with the holidays rapidly approaching, but because gathering with friends can help us feel loved and cared for in these fraught times. With holidays approaching, some of us are starting to think about giving a party. Others of us are hoping to go to one (or more). Socializing is a great way to bolster good cheer and optimism. It takes us away—at least temporarily —from our laptops and screens and connects us with community. So here are some suggestions and tips that might help with your decisions. It's party time! What type of party? Cocktail? Potluck? Dinner party? BBQ? Shower? Tea? Cocktail: the cocktail dînatoire* is very popular and pretty easy. Basically drinks and a self-serve buffet (mainly room temperature foods). Potluck: economical and pleasant for people who like to join in. BBQ or an…