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.
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