Plan a Small Party With a Few Close Friends

Happy New Year! Let’s make some positive changes this year. Most of us already know what experts are saying about our society. People are isolated, feeling lonely, and not engaging with others. This malady extends from teens spending too much time on video games, to adults who have stronger relationships with their telephones than with family and friends, and seniors who have sworn off cooking, parties, and even people.

It's time for a change. Plan a party, a small get-together, or a lunch with a few friends. Put the phones down, turn off the video games, and plan to be in the moment with some loved ones.

I was heartened to hear that the 1982 Martha Stewart cookbook, Entertaining, is being reissued. While my style is totally different from Martha’s, it is encouraging to hear that some people are still interested in entertaining. Yay!

Last year in my January column, I recommended a Regifting Party, a Sunday Brunch, and a Potluck Dinner. The idea is to reach out and engage with others. Don’t wait for others to contact you, be the first to plan a get together.

I was also encouraged when I visited the Williams Sonoma website (williams-sonoma.com). In the section Entertaining and Design Inspirations, I saw many how-to options relating to entertaining at home. Sections include how to set a table, buffet, stock a bar, and fold napkins. There’s a guide to wine and beer glasses, how to build a food board with sweets or a charcuterie platter of cheeses and meats.

So, there’s no acceptable excuses for staying isolated this coming year. Stop gazing into the digital abyss and call some friends and family. Even if you contact only one or two, invite them to your home. Encourage your teens, preteens, and senior family members to do the same. If you do, we will all feel so much better, emotionally happier, and connected in the new year, 2026.

By Maureen Molé

Maureen is the author of The Book of Entertaining at Home, a product spokesperson, and lecturer. Follow her on Instagram#Entertain_at_Home_with_Maureen, or email MaureenMole@gmail.com