Community Association Management Systems, Inc. Blog

Throwing a Holiday Party?   Successful Home Celebrations are Well Planned and Considerate of Neighbors  Who doesn't love a holiday party? In concept, no one. In real time, however, chances are there are exceptions to the rule in your community. But with a little planning, you can throw a successful bash and maintain not only "peace on earth" but peace in your community as well.   General Tips Acquire appropriate association permissions and local permitting if required to assure that outdoor decorations, attendance and temporary canopies, etc. are all by the book.  A firm parking plan is essential. Ask a nearby business to borrow or lease their lot if your property isn't large enough to accommodate your guests. Also, a good valet company can take the entire issue off your hands.  Prior to the event, test run the volume of music planned and listen from various spots around your neighborhood. Remember that not all surrounding homes will experience equal volume. Also, select an appropriate time to lower the volume on party night and stick to it. Consider the general age of your neighbors and their work schedules, etc.  Invite your neighbors. Nothing breeds impatience like a neighbor who feels snubbed. Maybe even consider soliciting help and planning from that neighbor who you suspect might complain. You may find that your next door neighbor "Mrs. Grumpster" actually can be quite pleasant and full of holiday ideas if you give her the chance.  Live in a Single Family Home Community?  The most important thing you can do when throwing a party in a community of single-family homes is to not assume that the extra space between neighbors cancels out any of the general considerations above. In fact, the extra space between properties adds a layer of protective anonymity that can encourage complaints at the slightest provocation. Consider all the general tips above, x 2!     Tips for Condominium Parties   Consider using a property common area like a clubhouse or even the community pool deck. These areas are designed for group socializing and generally located in areas more conducive to parties. With the weather we enjoy in South Florida, a daytime holiday pool party could be the hit of the season! Your neighbors are more likely to be patient during the day than late at night. If you share walls with neighbors, it goes without saying that music and conversation volume becomes of prime importance. Lift speakers off the floor to decrease the traveling bass response. Encourage guests to enter and exit via more secluded avenues if they exist. And don't let guests string out their merrymaking beyond your unit into hallways and common areas. It's tempting not to stir the pot prior to a party and cross your fingers. But not addressing your neighbors beforehand is a recipe for disaster. The farther ahead you let your neighbors in on your plan, the more time they have to get used to the idea. The more you encourage them to be a part of your celebration, the less apt they'll be to object. And the more you anticipate their possible concerns and plan considerately, the more successful your party will be.