Relationships

How To Throw An Epic Singles Holiday Party All Your Friends Will Love

by Jamie LeeLo
Andrey Pavlov

I know what you're probably thinking: It sucks to be single around the holidays.

Maybe you feel like everyone else is going with their SO to a holiday party, shacked up inside their apartments all cozy watching "Elf," holding hands while strolling through Christmas markets or aggressively scouring the planet for the perfect SO gift.

And I won't lie to you, you're probably right. BUT, it's actually the most magical time of the year when anything can happen. That said, it's a really amazing time to be single.

If I were you, I'd put on your best sequin mini skirt and throw the singles holiday party of the year.

Here are some great tips and tricks below, including flirty games, sexy decorations and spicy (sexually speaking) cocktails that'll help you throw an epic singles holiday party:

The invitation:

Seriously, singles only at this party.

Make sure your invitation clearly states "NO PLUS ONES." This will immediately eliminate any free-floating anxiety that comes with attending a party solo, and it also establishes an even playing field.

I recommend starting the evening late, but not too late. That way, guests have time to loosen up before arriving, but they aren't already shit-faced.

Also, list the attire as "cocktail seasonal." This will give your guests a chance to arrive as the best version of themselves. Maybe that means they love dressing up in festive holiday gear, or maybe they just put on their fancy pants. Either way, everyone arrives feeling CONFIDENT.

The decor:

This is a great way to sneak in tons of holiday-related single-isms.

Hang mistletoe generously around your place, and take some time to figure out the best mood lighting. You want to be able to see each other, so it doesn't feel like you invited everyone over for an orgy — but for the love of God, don't go with any overhead lighting.

Luckily, Christmas lights offer a great glow for selfies, flirting and Instagram filtering.

Also, move any unnecessary blankets, end tables or structures that get in the way of people being able to sit or stand close to each other.

Remember, you're there to get to know each other (aka suck face, maybe).

The cocktails:

This is where you have a chance to have a ton of fun. Here are some playful, sultry drinks to serve for your merry guests for some boozy, festive bliss.

Sexy Snowman Martini Source: Who Needs A Cape?

1.5 ounces creme de cacao (light) 1.5 ounces vanilla vodka 3 ounces white chocolate liqueur A splash of cream

Home Alone Cider Source: Appleton Estate

1.5 ounces Appleton Estate Reserve Rum 3 ounces unfiltered apple cider 1 tablespoon maple cyrup A cinnamon stick

Hanky Panky Source: Observer

1.5 ounces Martini Rosso vermouth 1.5 ounces Bombay Sapphire gin Garnish with an orange peel

In terms of food, keep things light and stick with finger foods. Get it? Finger? Like sexy stuff? OK, moving on.

The activities:

At some point in the night, get everyone involved in the same activity.

Depending on your personal understanding of your guests' comfort zones, feel free to push boundaries here. Play things like "Spin the Candy Cane," "Seven Minutes in The North Pole" or "Naughty or Nice" (instead of "Truth or Dare").

Definitely start your music playlist off with Kelly Clarkson's Christmas album.

But eventually, transition into your favorite dancing music. Make sure you save some dance floor room by pushing the furniture back.

The hosting:

As the host, make sure everyone feels comfortable and has a good time. Help introduce the gang, and when you do, highlight your friends' best features.

Tonight, you'll be the ultimate wingman or wingwoman, and damn it, you deserve to be on the "Nice" list for it.