Be the perfect host

Planning a Super Bowl party? Here are a few tips to make sure everyone has a good time.

1. If possible, have two separate places for people to watch and a common area to mingle over food and drinks. One room should be for die-hard fans, and one for those who talk through the entire game and are only there for the free beer and nachos.

2. Party stores have paper plates, plastic ware, cups and napkins in team colors, as well as football-themed. Not a Patriots or a Falcons fan? If you want to salute the Eagles or the Steelers, go right ahead.

3. Cover your table with a runner of indoor/outdoor artificial grass or "astro turf." Have a football? A helmet? Then by all means, incorporate them in your decorations.

4. Wear your favorite jersey and ask your guests to do the same, or dress in team colors.

5. Have lots of pickup nibbles and finger foods. And remember your guests may have a variety of likes, dislikes and restrictions. Choose what you'll serve accordingly.

6. Have a variety of beverages, including nonalcoholic drinks. Plan to serve coffee with dessert.

7. If someone offers to bring something, let them. If they offer to help clean up after the game, let them.

8. Arrange for extra seating. Some people won't mind sitting on the floor, but others either won't or can't.

9. Will there be children at your party? Have something fun for them to do. Even if they're interested in the game, they probably won't be for four hours.