Hosting for the Holidays

The holiday season is here, and it’s time to starting thinking about hosting parties. Here are some simple tips, based on your Sun sign, to ensure that you throw the perfect celebration -- yet stay calm on the inside. Whether you are actually the sign mentioned below, or if your party is being held on the day the Moon is in that particular sign, this insight will help you create a fabulous night for everyone!

Aries and Sagittarius
With these Fire signs driving the energy, this sure to be a party full of action and activities. Come up with a few physically themed events for guests to get involved with. Dancing is always a good fall back. Make sure the music is high energy. Things can get loud so warn your neighbours in advance. Spicy, hot and fast foods (that are quick and easy to prepare) are best.

Leo
You are the sign of luxury and will spare no expense when putting together a holiday event. Think quality and class, and consider doing something that’s elegant and requires guests to dress up. Splurge on the best food and wines you can afford. Something decadent -- like a butler to greet guests -- helps set a tone of quality and indulgence.

Taurus
This sign is about comfort first, and your number-one priority is to ensure everyone has comfortable seating, so beyond relaxing chairs be sure to have plenty of cushions and throw blankets. Taurus is a back-to-basics kind of sign so for the menu, plan simple food done well rather than anything fussy. Classical music sets a relaxing mood.

Virgo
Being a health-conscious sign, your party is best themed around food and drinks that are waist-conscious. Include finger food that can be eaten while standing and a selection of mocktails or organic wine. Very mature, very refined is your style.

Capricorn
Capricorn is a sign of ambition, so hosting colleagues for smart drinks allows you to network and enjoy the holiday season all at once. Style-wise, keep the mood classy. An event that brings like-minded people from similar industries together ensures a productive night all around.

Gemini and Aquarius
As Air signs, Gemini and Aquarius prefer to host a social get-together designed to help people mingle. If there are lots of singles in your group, consider a night focussed on matching up those looking for love. You’ll want to invite a big, diverse crowd, so create many areas with different moods where people can explore.

Libra
With Libra -- the sign of love -- throwing the party, best to invite two to four couples so the vibe is mellow and conversations are intimate. Libra has an eye for beauty, so a visual concept for the night is key. Asian food fits well, as you can make things simple and delicate.

Pisces
Food is an aside to drinks at a Pisces party, so don’t go overboard with fancy appetizers. Consider a wine-and-cheese night or have guests brings a bottle of their favorite beverage and let the evening unfold naturally. Plan a night that’s an escape from reality. A masked event is perfect.

Cancer
Cancer loves family, so get-togethers with extended family centered around the kids are ideal. Soul or comfort food is a must and traditional Christmas carols are the best accompaniment. Take photos so everyone has a memento of the night.

Scorpio
What interests you most over the holidays are intimate parties with your closest friends. Make it a priority to spend quality time with those in your inner circle. Darker tones, low light and a crackling fire set you up for a night of honest conversation and deepening friendships.