Feeling the chill? Our calendars are all marked out. Hibernation time starts now, we think. It’s all about those cosy nights with mood lights on, blankets out and your favourite candle lit. But we’re ditching the endless Netflix scrolling. And mixing up our snug nights with a bit of mild (see: serious) competitiveness. Whether it’s team spirit or cheating hearts, we’ve got our MOTH: Playing Cards at the ready. Shuffle up your night with our top tips.

As with any hosting. It all starts with the right atmosphere. We’re thinking soft lighting, comfy seats. Somewhere that invites people to settle in and stay awhile. Then just clear a table for the action, set out snacks within easy reach and pop on a playlist. This one’s our pick.

Now for the fun bit. Choosing your games. First choice: are you going analogue? Or digital.

For analogue picks, try a mix of quick-fire and longer rounds, so no one’s stuck waiting for their turn for too long.

• Party staples: Pictionary, Uno, card games. Our MOTH: Playing Cards come with 3 games included.

• Quiz games: Create your own themed rounds. Or go for classics like Articulate or Trivial Pursuit.

• Let’s get physical: Our fave for big laughs. Everyone loves Twister (deep down). Or you could opt for something calmer, like Charades. Or Heads Up.
  
  

  Game nights are a popular choice for Hen Nights too. Planning one? Lean into themes; ‘How Well Do You Know the Bride?’, a wedding trivia, maybe a cheeky challenge or two? We’re thinking Scavenger Hunt.

   
  Read more about our top tips for planning a hen party.

Pausing the fun for a sit-down meal? We don’t think so. Keep things easy – hands-on. We love a grazing board or buffet platter for these occasions. Let people help themselves. And keep their poker faces at the ready.

SOME IDEAS:

• Charcuterie boards are always a winner. And they pair perfectly with bitter numbers like our MOTH: Negroni. 

• For more of a self-serve buffet spread, opt for finger food platters. Featuring sliders, wings and veggie skewers. You could also set up a self-serve cocktail station to match. Our Super Host Pack is the best bang for your big-group-hosting buck.

• And for dessert? We’re thinking bowls of popcorn. Or little mini-desserts. Make sure no one misses their turn. With MOTH: Espresso Martinis to match? Now we're smooth-talking.

Our biggest tip to ace those party drinks? Keep is easy and sociable. A self-serve station works great for this, and lets people pick their own. Maybe you’ll up the ante with a signature games night cocktail (or mocktail)? Something you can batch ahead of time for total hosting ease.

Other Games Night Drink options:

• Sparkling water, fizzy drinks, fruit juice for non-alcoholic options.

• Beers and wines, if you like to offer variety.

• Garnishes like citrus wheels or mint, for those who go the extra mile.

The secret to smooth hosting? Finessing the order. If you want to go all in, that is. For a more casual affair, just gather your guests and serve up easy snacks and cocktails. No running order needed.

ALL IN?

1. On arrival: light snacks and drinks. A special, themed welcome cocktail could really blow their socks off.
2. Mid-point: bring your a-game to the main event. A gorgeous grazing platter. And refill those drinks.
3. As things wind down: a sweet moment? Cookies, brownies oe hot chocs? Bonus points if it’s our Espresso Martini Hot Chocolate.
4. Having a plan for what to serve ta your games night means you can actually enjoy the action too. No endless trips to the kitchen. And you’ll never miss your turn.

Hopefully you’ll be feeling like you’ve been dealt a winning hand with our tips on how to host a games night. But the main takeaway? If you’re feeling flash, go all out. But the key bit is enjoying yourself – with your nearest and dearest. And remember: you’ll always have laughter. Even if you lose.