Inviting people to our homes is a great way to socialize.
You get to spend time with your favorite people all in the comfort of your own place – something that is especially appealing if it means that you don’t need to get a babysitter for the children! But just inviting people over doesn’t mean that you’re entertaining – being a great host is a skill in itself. And if you do succeed, then the rewards are great – not only will friends and family clamor to come back, but you’re likely to get invited to theirs as well, so more opportunities to dress up. So how do you have a house full of happy guests who look forward to your parties?
UNDERSTAND YOUR GUESTS
Knowing your audience is a huge part of throwing a great gathering. Looking after the little details is the way to make people feel special – whether it’s remembering their dietary requirements, making their favorite dessert or even ordering in that red they like – easy when you can buy wine online.
MAKE A LIST
Lists are absolutely key to making your party a success as you get organized ahead of time. Keep a running list of who you’ve invited and whether they have RSVP’d, food preferences and a list of what you need to make and buy. Think about all the details – do you need fresh flowers to put on the table? Should you get plastic buckets full of ice to keep drinks cool? Can you find a party playlist on Spotify that gets the mood going? If it’s warm weather and you’re planning on sitting outside, do you have candles, citronella to keep bugs away and blankets in case your guests get chilly? There can be a lot to think about, so using a list making app can really help you to stay on top of all the little tasks.
MAKE THE INTRODUCTIONS
If there are people there who don’t know each other, then make sure that you introduce them as they arrive. As people come through the door, tell them you’re glad they could make it, get them a drink and make a meaningful introduction to someone else in the room. Think ahead about any connections or interests in common they may have. Don’t just introduce someone with a name – throw a couple of interesting facts in there about what they like, what they have taught you or how you met. This makes it much easier for people to connect and then relax a little. Also make sure that everyone knows where the toilets are and give them a little tour of your home if they haven’t been there before, so they know where everything is and they feel comfortable. Then you’re more likely to be able to get on with the tasks you need to do and keep the party moving.
With a little forward planning you can host a beautiful event and have your guests talk about your parties for ages to come.