Hosting a party at home doesn’t have to be stressful. We recommend taking the time before the party to really prepare for the unexpected. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be on your way to a flawless party!
1. Clear the front entry
It is easy to get accustom to that mountain of shoes surrounding your doorway, or trying to fit just one more jacket into that tiny hall closet. Here is your chance to put away the winter parkas and boots. Try to make as much space as possible for your guests to enter and exit your home gracefully without tripping over shoes or jackets. In apartments or smaller spaces, create an artificial front entrance by putting down an extra-large mat so your guests can comfortably enter your home without soiling your floors.
2. Empty your garbage and dishwasher
Rather than fumbling around trying to put away dishes in the middle of the party, having an empty dishwasher makes clean-up quick and easy. Keep in mind that guests really truly want to help out at parties – this makes it easier for them to dive right into the clean up.
3. Stock your washrooms
Give the washroom a quick once over before guests arrive. Stash away all personal items, clear those counter tops, overstock the toilet paper, put out clean towels and soap. For a special touch, place a few fresh cut flowers in a small vase and place on the vanity.
4. Build a Playlist
Begin building your music playlist a few days before the party. Start the party off with slower music, then slowly build the playlist to some true party favourites. Remember to stick to crowd favourites. Now isn’t the best time show your guests what unique and eclectic musical tastes you have. Give your guests familiar songs that they can really dance to. If you don’t have time to put together a playlist, or if you simply do not have any other music than your eclectic and unique stuff, try using Songza for some more mainstream tunes.
5. Relax
You may find this to be the most difficult thing to do. Parties can be stressful for the hostess. Remember though that your guests will only have as much fun as you do. If you are stressed and feeling rushed, guests will sense that. However, if you are relaxed and enjoying yourself, so will your guests. So before everyone arrives, pour yourself a glass of wine, put on some music and just soak in the fantastic party you have just organized.
