Holiday entertaining is always fun, but let’s face it – sometimes you need a break from the classic Christmas party. Don’t misunderstand – I love mulled wine and Sinatra Christmas carols (who doesn’t?) but sometimes we want to throw a party that’s a little different.

Thought about trying your hand at a salon evening? Literary and conversation salons date all the way back to Ancient Greece, so the idea is hardly new, but these days it’s a pretty unique way to guarantee an entertaining and unusual evening. There are many different ways to host a salon evening. Here are three variations on the theme:

Open Mic

When sending out your invitations, ask each guest to bring something to share with the group on the night. Let them be as creative as they like – a short story or poem to read, a piece of music to perform, or even simply a provocative topic for discussion. This format is best for smaller groups, just to ensure that everyone gets their turn. If your guests are nervous at the idea, reassure them that the simplest ideas are the best – even an excerpt from a favourite children’s story can be hugely entertaining.

Cocktails & Conversation

Once your guests have arrived and relaxed with a drink, ask everyone to write down a conversation topic that will generate a good debate. Put the ideas in a hat, then pull them out at random. You may find you only get through one or two, if they’re good. This will work with groups of all sizes, and yes: a few cocktails will help conversation flow even easier!

Spotlight

Most of us are lucky enough to have at least one or two creative-type friends. If they’re willing, why not create a one-off salon evening around them? Perhaps your best friend is a secret cello virtuoso, or your boyfriend writes spine-tingling ghost stories in his free time… You’ll be amazed what you find out about your friends!

And of course, the best way to make sure everyone’s relaxed and happy is to provide your guests with seasonal cocktails, fun drinks and some tasty appetizers. A salon evening is a great way to entertain your guests and of course the perfect moment to show off your latest talents, whatever they might be!

Some of our favourite conversation topics:

* Happiness: What is it? How do you find it? What does it mean to you? Is life really about the pursuit of happiness?

* Childhood: What is it all about? How did yours influence the person you are now? How is childhood different today?

* Advice: What have you learned so far from life? What advice would you give your 18-yr old self?  What advice would you give to an 18-yr old today?

* Living Simply: What does this mean to you? Is it important? Why? Is there anything wrong with not living simply?

by Jo Rivard