Throwing a party in a small space can seem intimidating, but a more modest footprint shouldn’t dash your entertaining dreams. If hosting a New Year’s Eve party in your condo is on your holiday to-do list this year, read on for tips and ideas for throwing a New Year’s Eve party that’ll have your guests counting down to your next big bash.

Repurpose Your Holiday Decorations

If you’ve still got your holiday decorations up by the time New Year’s comes around, extend their life by using them for your party. Festive lights and decor can easily double up as cool decorations for a New Year’s party, especially silver and gold pieces. Bowls and vases filled with baubles can be switched out for confetti, party horns and other fun pieces to help usher in the new year with style.

Avoid Prepping a Formal Meal

New Year’s Eve parties tend to start later, so opt for an array of appetizers and finger foods instead of a sit-down meal. Set food and drink stations up around your flat to keep guests from all hovering in one area, and label everything — from charcuterie boards to cups — so that guests know what’s being served and don’t misplace their drink.

Be Aware of How Much Space You Have

… and make the most of it. Clear up any flat surfaces to use as extra serving stations, and get creative with seating arrangements to make the most of the space you have and encourage conversation.

Have Designated Drop Off Areas

Baby, it’s cold outside, which means your guests will be arriving with bulky coats, purses and winter boots. Make space in your closet to give them somewhere to hang their items (chances are your bedrooms will be off-limits for guests, so a good idea could be to pile your own closet belongings on the bed for a night) or invest in a coat or shoe rack.

Looking for a new flatmate in your area?

Be a Good Neighbour

In a flat building, it’s good etiquette to let your neighbours know that you’re hosting a party. This will let them know that they’ve been considered and they’ll be more understanding of higher volumes of noise. If you’ve recently moved in, you could even invite them over — there’s nothing sweeter than ringing in the new year with a new friend.

Create a Party Playlist

Keep the party going with a cool playlist that brings together all of you and your friends’ favourite tunes. Just be sure to keep the volume more moderate so that your guests can easily converse.

Have a Plan For When the Clock Strikes 12

Whether it’s bringing out your best bottle of bubbly, ensuring everyone gets a party horn and streamers, or even deciding what channel to watch the countdown on, have a plan in mind to usher the new year in with a bang.