Curate to Your Crowd. Give Them What They Want…
These 4 tips for throwing a great party in your home will make sure your guests are comfortable and having fun…
It’s time to celebrate! Whether it’s a housewarming party with friends and new neighbors in your new home, a family event, birthday party or summer barbecue, keep your guests and your goals in mind when you’re planning. Knowing your “audience” when hosting a party is crucial. Remember–the party isn’t always about you (unless of course, it is, in which case you should share this link with someone planning it!).
CLEAN & NEAT
Cleaning your home is obvious when hosting a party, but don’t skimp on the details. Make sure everything from your landscaping to your toilets are spotless before the first guests make an appearance. Short on time? Consider a cleaning company to come in and handle the big stuff so you can focus on the event.
FOOD & DRINKS
If you wine and dine them they will come! Anticipating dietary restrictions and allergies when planning your menu can save you from awkward apologies and hungry guests on the day of your party. Always order or prepare more food than you think you will need. Give your guests what they want and don’t forget the non-alcoholic beverages! Remember, not everyone partakes in the drinking of adult beverages. For most adult parties, a 70/30 split of alcoholic to non-alcoholic beverages is a healthy balance. Those non-alcoholic drinks can also serve as mixers for your guests’ cocktails.
If you want to do a cocktail party theme, keep it traditional with finger food options. If a self-serve buffet is more your style, then make sure you have enough space to set all of the food out and plenty of room for guests to sit and eat. If you can’t, don’t want to or don’t have time to cook, then hire a caterer to put together a spread that fits within your budget for the event.
ENTERTAINMENT
From a specific music playlist, a night of fun board games, or even an adult-themed pinata, you will want to give your party-goers something to do that will keep the vibe warm and fun. You want your guests to have an opportunity to “break the ice” with each other, especially in larger settings most people don’t know each other. Try and keep the flow of people spread out, so all your guest are not concentrated into one area to help encourage people to mingle.
PRO TIP: Casino parties are one of the best ways to get a larger diverse group of people to mingle with each other. Guests can play for prizes. Most cities have companies that will bring in the tables and dealers for you.
MAKE IT PERSONAL
Is there a theme to your event? Try to stay true to the concept from top-to-bottom, so you can enhance the guest experience. Let’s say you’re throwing a housewarming party. It could be fun to have a keepsake for your guests to sign. You may also consider a small takeaway or party favor so your guests will remember the event for a long time.
Setting-up an Instagram-style frame and displaying a party hashtag will encourage your friends to get social and will help get people taking pics in case you don’t have time. Renting a photo booth with props such as mustaches and party hats can also add to the party atmosphere.
And don’t forget to enjoy the party alongside your friends and family!!
I really liked that you pointed out that if I want to do a cocktail party theme, I should keep it traditional with finger food options. I am going to throw a small party as my son has just graduated from the university, and I do not want to serve lots of food. I guess some starters and bakery products will complement some nice wine, and together with our family friends, we will have a lot of fun!