We have all been in awkward situations with total strangers. Don’t let that happen to the guests at your holiday party. As the host, it is your job to put people at ease and to make sure they have a good time.
Do not hastily introduce two people and then race into the kitchen to prepare the shrimp cocktail. Your guests will stand there, knowing only each other’s names and nothing else. They are limited as to where the conversation can go. Instead, introduce them and share an anecdote about how you met one of them. You could also try to come up with something they have in common. “Will, did you know Ann is an artist too?”
When you leave your guests, let them know that you will catch up with them shortly. Also, be sure to make the rounds during your party. You want to touch base with everyone in attendance.