Be the host of the year at your New Year's Eve dinner party

If fighting the crowds isn't how you want to ring in the new year, you can host a successful New Year's Eve dinner party that strikes the right balance between elegance, comfort and fun.

For starters, consider hosting an intimate dinner party at your home.

• A dinner party can be just as festive as a night out, and it allows you to enjoy a festive celebration with your closest family and friends.

The menu is an essential element to your New Year's Eve dinner party.

• Consider an hors d'oeuvres menu, where you can mix and match heavy and light appetizers to offer your guests variety.
• Combine lighter options like vegetables and dip, a fruit tray and a cheese tray with heavier dishes such as sausage-stuffed mushrooms, beef tenderloin sliders or sweet and sour meatballs.

Ensure you have plenty of drinks for your New Year's Eve dinner party.

• Even if you're not inviting a group of big drinkers, they might want a glass or two to ring in the new year.
• To avoid having to create a fully stocked bar, consider offering beer, white and red wine and a signature cocktail.
• Consider a Champagne cocktail that combines fruit juices with Champagne for a fruity and festive dinner party pairing.

New Year's Eve dinner party decor does not have to be ornate. You can choose classic decorative items you likely already have on hand.

• Metallic tones are ideal for this holiday, so uncover your best gold and silver pieces.
• Candlesticks, vases and serving platters in gold and silver can adorn your dining room table and buffet.
• Pull out your best china, light candles and add some floral centrepieces for a classic and festive tablescape.

Make your in-home New Year's Eve party feel like the chicest event in town by asking guests to dress up.

• While you don't need to host a black-tie affair, a dressier function adds a touch of elegance to your dinner party.
• For women, a classic little black dress or a top with a touch of sparkle is perfect for New Year's Eve.
• Men can don a pair of tailored slacks, a button-down shirt and their favourite blazer for a dapper look.

Reflect on your year and look ahead to the next with your family and close friends.

An intimate dinner party allows you to catch up with your loved ones in a cosy but festive environment.

Planning the right food and drink menu, in addition to decorating and dressing with the occasion in mind, can only lead to a successful dinner party on the last day of the year.