There’s nothing as much fun, and exciting, as anticipating the possibilities of a New Year with a large group of people. Pull out the top hats and feathered tiaras, pop the cork, and toast the new year in style.

A New Year’s Eve party gives most women a reason to buy a beautiful cocktail dress and some sparkling jewelry. For some it’s the only time all year they get to dress up, and they don’t want to pull any punches.

Have your champagne chilled in a nice acrylic or aluminum ice bucket , uncork the bottle, and enjoy the evening. Those with money to spread around can use real glass champagne flutes for everyone, others resort to plastic to make their toasts. Either way, the spirit is the same.

Having a special party favor, such as a timer that is shaped like a champagne glass in an ice bucket. Each guest can set their timer to go off at midnight (synchronize the timers to all go off at the same time). What an original and fun way to send off the New Year!

Toast can be personal, directed to the host/hostess of the party, or intimate. Use humor, poetry, or off the cuff (as long as you don’t embarrass anyone) relating of a personal moment.  When you have completed your toast, lift your champagne glass and sip to the honoree and the New Year.

Just remember, if you are going to drink either have a designated driver, or get a room within walking distance of the party. You don’t want to end the new year before it gets started.