As the New Year’s festivities come to a close, our minds start to veer into “game day” mode in preparation for none other than the infamous Super Bowl Sunday. Super Bowl parties are a time for friends and family to gather together to watch the big game in conversation as well as good company. To earn a best host MVP, you want to make sure you have not only the space to accommodate guests but also decor and recipes that are sure to have your guests celebrating as they cheer on their favorite team. Excite your guests with your unique football-themed decorations and kick off your game-day menu with tasty appetizers, desserts and beverages to top it all off.

End Zone Entertainment

In order to watch the game, you will need not only a television and stand, but proper seating to accommodate your guests as well. If your TV is set on something lackluster, it may be the perfect time to invest in a new entertainment center. Choose the appropriate entertainment center or media console to create a more theatrical vibe in your living space, which is sure to give your guest an “on-field experience” right from your living room. Along with a style that speaks to you (traditional, modern, even casual – featuring trendy barn doors), you can choose an entertainment center that incorporates a number of shelves or cabbies which act as storage space.

Now, on to seating. Leather power recliners are the perfect way to exhibit cinema seating, as it not only exemplifies comfort but a classic style as well (or touch of modern flare, depending on your selection). Need some extra spots for extra guests? Throughout the game, your guests will be moving in and out of their seats for snacks, conversation breaks and more. In order to maximize comfort in your game-viewing environment, bring in some cozy floor cushions and throw pillows, and your guests can pull up a seat wherever they want. Benches, ottomans, poufs and bean bag chairs can provide extra seating for large crowds as well.

Down Field Decor

When thinking about decorations for your game day party, you want to incorporate not only the football theme, but also make sure your everyday home decor is entertaining-ready. Focus on cozy extras that bring texture and a fresh feel into your room, such as new throw blankets and pillows for your sofa and chairs.

There are many ways to incorporate the football flare to your home without impeding on your existing home decor. Effortlessly hang a decorative team throw over a leather recliner as you settle down to watch the game. Hanging either homemade or store-bought garland across the mantel or above the windowsill in your team's colors is a simple way to enhance your current living room or family room decor and add a decorative touch to your party. Throw some football themed confetti across the table runner to add some pizazz to your table setup. You can even get crafty and make some homemade decorations such as paper pom-poms or chains in your team’s colors.

Super Bowl Spread

One of the best parts of the Super Bowl party, besides the game, of course, is the delicious appetizers. Keep your guests well pleased by displaying the entire spread on either the kitchen table or coffee table where all can be easily accessed. Make your guests feel as though they are at the stadium with your all-star chicken wings. Provide small boats for your guests to fill with their favorite kind of wing and dipping sauce. The wings are sure to be a fan pleaser, especially as the extras can be kept warm in the crock pot until they are running low on display. At a Super Bowl party especially, chips and guacamole are a must have. Meatballs are yet another simple crowd pleaser. Keep the extras simmering in a crock pot until they are needed.

Now onto dessert, which is a must for a good party! One unique dessert idea is football shaped brownies. Use a football-shaped cookie cutter, then pipe on some frosting for a guaranteed touchdown from your guests.

As the host, you will also want to make sure you provide drinks to accompany your appetizers and dessert. Fill an ice bucket with some beers and place it on an end table for easy access for your guests. For a more festive and notable option, a large pitcher of homemade punch is sure to please the masses. Set the pitcher, glasses and some garnish on a platter for your guests to enjoy at their convenience. Remember utensils, napkins and small snack plates, and keep an eye out for any of the dishes that may need to be refilled throughout the game.

That’s it! To maximize comfort for your guests, grab some extra cushions from around the home for easy access for your excited guests. Display your team spirit with something as simple as a team throw, or even some homemade game-day crafts. Keep your appetizers simple but plentiful, as a Super Bowl party is all about the yummy appetizers and drinks. Use these tips to ensure your Super Bowl party will be a success.