I love new beginnings. A new week or a new season, but especially each New Year. I've had memorable New Year's Eves, and some in my teenage years I would rather forget. Friends and/or family often stay with me at the beach. If we're lucky, an impromptu dance floor in a lounge will emerge, and the evening will feature the belting out of power ballads.
New Year's Eve, whether you're having a raging party or a quiet one at home, is an excellent excuse for delicious food and a few drinks. It's a time of year where I like to eschew normal eating and graze for hours.
Long, lazy brunch feasts, multi-course casual lunches and "snacks-for-dinner" are my take on a simple way to feed a few. I'm on a lifelong mission to create a perfect platter. It's a work-in-progress, but I'm getting there. Snacks-for-dinner works for a larger group or just a few.
It doesn't take much to make a party. Reflect on the year, make some resolutions for the one ahead, and most of all, have fun.
Hosting tips
Keep things simple and stick to what you know. If you have a signature dish, make that. Don't over-extend yourself, but then I can't talk " I always over-extend myself. I do, however, ensure I take five minutes to put on a dress and lipstick before guests arrive. Bonus points if you have a wine in your hand. Make sure there is lots of food (barbecues are a great way to feed a crowd, as are substantial snacks) and non-alcoholic drinks on offer. Things like sunblock if you're having a daytime affair and insect repellent if you're outside are incredibly helpful. Make sure friends get home safely in taxis or just have a big New Year's sleepover and pitch a tent in your backyard.
