I’m testing smart home gear and high-tech party gadgets at every holiday party I host and attend. Here’s how to automate the little things so you can actually enjoy the seasonal vibes this year.

It's that time of year when calendars are full of Friendsgiving events and white elephant parties. If you're looking for holiday party ideas that will actually make hosting and enjoying your next holiday party easier, this is the guide for you. It's no small task to host a great party, and as a deeply type B person who's more likely to make another Partiful invite than she is to start cooking a recipe on time, I'm always looking for ways to streamline my hosting.

In the spirit of a WIRED-style holiday, I'm automating everything I can this holiday season for every party I attend and host. I'll be testing everything from smart home gadgets like smart light bulbs and smart locks to fun party accessories like a portable photo booth and cocktail-making machine all season long. Here's everything ...