How to throw a holiday office or home party - KMSP-TV

How to throw a holiday office or home party

If you run or own a business, the Fox 2 Job Shop has news that works for you.  Attorney Ronald Sollish provides six tips to help you plan an event that ensures it doesn't cost more than the price of party favors.  His advice is good for home or office parties.

Play the video to get further details in an interview with Fox 2's Murray Feldman.

1. Property Preparation:  While many people focus on the consumption of alcoholic beverages at these events, it is just as important to evaluate, inspect and prepare the homeowner's property for the event.  Check for broken or cracked sidewalks, steps and walking surfaces in order to avoid slip and fall issues.  Make sure all walkways are clear of snow and ice.  Arrange furnishings and fixtures to insure that the same cannot cause injury, break or fall on guests.  Place valuables in a safe place to avoid theft or loss.
2. Insurance:  Check with your insurance agent to insure that all property insurance is in place, up-to-date and in force.  Evaluate insurance limits.  Contact your insurance agent to determine whether an umbrella or small policy is available to cover the risk associated with the event. 
3. Consumption of Alcohol:  Consider hiring a private bartender who is insured.  The social host should plan on remaining sober and vigilant during the event.  Make arrangements to have designated drivers and/or available taxi services.  Make sure sufficient food and coffee is available.  Consider the type of beverages available and limiting the same to less alcoholic selections such as beer and wine.
4. The Event:  Know your guests.  Make sure that no minors are in attendance.  Set a time for the party to finish.  Establish a time for the bar to close.  Assess the condition of each guest prior to departure.  Be sensitive to neighbors, including noise and parking issues.  Pay attention to weather conditions and forecasts. 
5. What Happens if the Authorities Arrive:  Be courteous, polite and respectfully.  Address their express concerns in an appropriate fashion.  Do not let them into your home without a warrant. 
6. Office Parties.  With respect to office parties, it should be clear to workers that attendance is purely voluntary.  We do not want any exposure or liability to arise as a result of the activity being deemed to arise in the course of employment.  Owners, managers and supervisors do not shed their liability or responsibility as a result of being at attendance at a party.  Owners, managers and supervisors must insure that, while a party is an informal setting, appropriate workplace decorum is maintained with respect to behavior, touching and language.  All of the advice that pertains to a regular home party applies to workplace parties provided that there is an increased level of vigilance.