How to Deal With Common Party Problems
Oh, it’s not an interesting party if someone doesn’t drink too much or if you haven’t nearly run out of food 20 minutes into the event. When throwing a big party for the first time, it’s easy to overlook a little detail that could lead to a big blowout later on. Even if you’re a party veteran, it’s not unheard of for things to get a little out of control, and for the host to have to step in to save the day. Here are some common party disasters and how to prepare yourself.
Someone Drinks Too Much
If you notice a friend slurring their words or getting loud beyond the point of being funny, it could be a sign that they’ve had one too many champagne cocktails. Step in now and try to limit the damage and distract them from drinking more. Pour a glass of juice or soda, and deliver it to them as a refresher—if you have to, fib and tell them it’s a mixed drink. Get them away from the drinks table by offering to show them other parts of your house or asking them to get some fresh air with you in your back yard.
If they’ve passed the point of no return, take them to a discreet place to vomit, like an upstairs bathroom. Don’t let them lie on their back (this could lead to choking), and place them on their side if they can’t stay up over the toilet. If you have another good mutual friend at the party, consider enlisting them to help take care of the drunk individual.
Use your best judgment. If it just looks like too hard of a night, keep an eye on them every 20 minutes or so and let time work its magic. If, however, they cannot be awakened or roused from a stupor, have blue lips or obviously impaired circulation, and a rapid pulse, it’s time to dial 911; your party-goer likely has alcohol poisoning. Use this resource if you’re unsure of what to do.
You Run Out of Food or Drink
Prevention is everything here—always buy more food, drink, and booze than you’ll think you need. If the worst comes and you run out, however, see if you can identify a good friend at the party who can run to the local corner store for more booze, chips, and other snacks. While it won’t be fancy, if you’ve already run out of supplies chances are good that your guests are having a good time and won’t notice the change in fare.
Your Guests Butt Heads
Maybe you invite two of your favorite people to the party (or two people you don’t know at all), only to find that after they have a few drinks, their personalities become like oil and water. As a host, your job here is to come in as a distraction, and to do your best to get these people away from one another. Ask one of them for help in the kitchen, or tell them you have another guest they just have to meet. This is also a good time to announce that it’s time for party games or a toast; unless your guests have a real vendetta against one another, a momentary distraction is usually enough to defuse the situation.