That crazy party season is upon us all once again. There are things we did last year, or the year before, that we swore we would never do again. Cast your mind back, read this article and don't forget that its all about your personal party brand. When in doubt, invite someone from Artisan to your party - we can liven it up and be that little party angel so you have the best time you possible can.

There is always that person at a Christmas party, they have style, charisma and they know how to make you laugh. They seem to be having fun the whole time and they possibly know most of the people there. This year, we want that person to be you.

This season we recommend you find a ‘Party Buddy’. A party buddy can help you out with guidance on what to wear, respond to your conversation, let you know when you’ve had enough to drink and keep you company on the dance floor. More a wing-man than a date, your party buddy can help keep everything in line and boost the amount of fun you and your friends have.

Getting ready – “What do I wear . . ?”
Gents, if you’re stuck – ask the girls what you should wear. Great advice someone gave me years ago, it will always help. Gay boys will more than likely also have this covered. Rule of thumb though, you can’t go wrong with a collared shirt and some smart shoes. Works with jeans or pants depending on the venue and time.
Ladies, dress appropriately. Make a smart choice with the footwear, the heels look hot, but if you’re on your feet all night consider having emergency flats. Or wear flats to start with. If you wouldn’t wear a mini skirt, fishnets and half a halter to work, don’t wear it to the Christmas party.
If its fancy dress, go all out if you want or just go as far as you like. Participate to some degree, if you know that you have another function to attend, (or you are a bit shy, in which case that previous excuse can hold up without causing embarrassment), still make a gesture to theme. Hats are great because they are easy to remove and you’ll look great in photos.

Topics of discussion – “so then I said . . .”
Be prepared to speak with people, but if you work with the people you will be partying with it can be a good idea to talk about something other than work. It shows that you have more going on in your head than just your job.
Have three interesting things ready to discuss with people if conversation doesn’t come naturally to you.
Keep it clean, the conversation may degenerate through out the evening depending on the amount of Jager Bombs consumed but there is always someone who remembers. When in doubt, its ok in Melbourne to talk about the weather.

Food and drink – “I’ll have two thanks . . .”
We all know this one, don’t drink too much alcohol at the party. Or better yet, just try not to drink too much alcohol.
Its always good advice to make sure you consume some non-alcoholic drinks during the night. Some people say a 50:50 ratio works well, for most the reality is more 80:20.

Don’t drink and drive. The key is to plan ahead, if you even think you are likely to have a too many to get behind the wheel of a car make sure you organise to catch a taxi, get a ride or get a room nearby.

Dancing, dos and don’ts – “Hey DJ, do you have . . .”
Do be the first person on the dance floor.
Don’t be the person who throws the table to the side of the dining area to start your own dance floor.
Do learn some moves before hand so you feel comfortable out there with other guests
Don’t start stripping. Ever.
Do feel comfortable politely declining if you don’t feel like dancing at the time.
Don’t be afraid to pull out the ‘robot’, the ‘water sprinkler’ or your best ‘Raspberry Beret’ moves – people will think you’re having fun. Yes, they may think you are a dag, but a dag who is having fun.

Manners don’t cost anything – “Thanks for a great evening.”
If you’re bringing a guest with you, make sure you introduce them to people if they don’t know anyone. Its great meeting new friends at the festive season and everyone is in such a good mood. Introducing someone is a great way to include those quiet shy types who might not have the courage to do it themselves.

All in all, you’ve had a great night, you’re leaving just before the fun ends and you’re definitely going to say thanks to one of the people who threw the party. A short email or thank you note goes a long way these days, they’ll appreciate copies of any photos you took too.

Have a fun and safe festive season from all of us at Artisan.