Welcome to Come On Over, a Food52 publication about internet hosting life’s massive and little moments. It’s the place we share our private suggestions and tips, from modern-day etiquette—footwear off or footwear on?—to creating further seating out of each floor of an condominium. This week, Kelly’s breaking the ice.

There’s nothing I like greater than introducing one group of associates to a different, particularly once I know they’re going to get alongside swimmingly. However strolling right into a room filled with unfamiliar faces may be awkward, even within the friendliest setting. And whenever you’re the one bringing everybody collectively, it’s on you to easy that stress. So I gathered a couple of go-to tips from the Food52 workforce.

1. No Interrogation Lamps

Give it some thought: Harsh overhead lighting solely makes these early awkward moments really feel much more intense. Alexis says to ditch the formal sit-down dinner so individuals can transfer round and mingle naturally. Hold meals and drinks simple to seize, and soften the lighting wherever you’ll be able to. As she places it: “The primary factor to enhance an area… dimmers.”

2. Music, The Nice Communicator

Jillian notes that ensuring there’s upbeat music is essential to creating individuals really feel snug—no mournful tunes, please and thanks. Take it a step additional and have music movies taking part in on the TV. Nothing brings individuals nearer than bonding over Panic! on the Disco.

3. Intentional Intros

It’d sound apparent, but it surely’s usually so apparent that hosts neglect. As company arrive, Alex reminds hosts to be intentional about introducing individuals to 1 one other. “Share how you understand one another and perhaps even throw in a element about what they could have in frequent. Internet hosting means extra than simply organizing a fairly celebration!”

4. Recreation the System

The quickest approach to get individuals vibing is to get them gaming. Begin with one thing traditional like two truths and a lie. And Jackbox celebration video games are one other approach to embody a ton of individuals directly. It’s low effort, excessive payoff, and everybody can take part proper from their telephones.

5. Carry the Chatterbox

Received a good friend who’s by no means met an ungainly silence? Be certain they’re on the high of the visitor record—and have them arrive a bit of early. If you happen to’re doing assigned seating, put them smack within the center to assist bridge teams. As Julia places it (à la Curb Your Enthusiasm), your “middler” needs to be the strongest conversationalist with the most effective tales to inform.

6. Be Ready

Because the host, be prepared to leap in and easy over any lulls with a tailor-made dialog starter. If you happen to already know what your company have in frequent—nice. If not, throw out one in every of these: movie star encounters or their Kevin Bacon quantity from Beyoncé, their most cancellable meals take, or how they’d describe themselves as a charcuterie board ingredient.