Dear Diane,
This year I’m hosting my first Halloween party. I’ve hosted smaller events at my house in the past, but this one will be a large scale production with a festive theme. I am focusing on adults only so we can have a short break from our sweet kiddos. The problem is, some of my friends have a tendency to get a little rowdy and I want to maintain a respectful level of decorum. My friends are responsible adults, but they also like to “let their hair down” on occasion. How can I implement some basic rules while keeping the atmosphere upbeat and fun? I want to curtail any possibility of my party getting out of hand and look forward to your input.
Thanks,
Claire W.
Dear Claire,
While any party can get out of hand, it’s definitely more common at Halloween-themed bashes. Sometimes people feel so liberated they act in ways they normally wouldn’t. It is not unusual for people to take their Halloween alter-egos a bit too far. I understand your concern about keeping your reputation and household goods safe and unblemished. Memories of the party last a lifetime but red wine on your beautiful carpet can last forever.
To keep your friends in check without ruining the celebration, try these simple tips:
Implement a Dress Code
If you fear your guests may take liberties with the Halloween theme (risqué, politically charged, offensive), give them some guidelines. Try putting “no controversial themes”, “dressy”, “casual”, or “no costumes” on the invite. While some people may overlook your requests, the majority will attempt to comply.
Protect Expensive Items
There is always a chance something will get damaged. If you fear someone will accidentally break something of value, put it away. If a valued item is too heavy to move, cover it with a plastic tarp or other protective sheeting. If you can work plastic sheeting into the decor, all the better.
Control the Music
You are the governor of the playlist. Make sure to have upbeat tunes that everyone will enjoy. You control the volume level and reserve the right to low or raise it as you prefer. When its time for the party to end, lowering the music is an effective cue to guests to start heading to the door.
Don’t Overserve Liquor
Make sure and have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and coffee to go around, especially as the party starts to wind down. Put away the wine bottles, stop serving mixed drinks and switch over to beverages such as juice, seltzer and a variety of soda.
Designate a Bouncer
Enlist the help of friends who can assist you in keeping the party down to a low roar. Your neighbors will appreciate your consideration when it comes to lowering the volume on the outdoor music and keeping the noise level to a reasonable decibel.
Offer Ride Alternatives
Have a plan in place to ensure your guests stay safe. Rideshare apps like Lyft and Uber provide transportation at a click of a button. You may also ask non-drinking companions if they would consider being a backup ride for anyone who needs help getting home at the end of the evening.
A celebration is a great way to continue to strengthen new and established relationships. Have a fun night and a Happy Halloween!
Sincerely,
Diane
You may also like Halloween Party Etiquette: Hosting a Perfect Celebration. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on HuffPost, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.
