Throwing a fun get-together at home doesn’t have to send you straight to bed with a cold compress and a bottle of aspirin. The truth is, parties at home can be a lot of fun. The best part is, you don’t have to worry about a designated driver.
The key to a successful party at home is advanced planning. You don’t have to drive yourself crazy by attempting to host the “perfect” bash (hey, we can’t all be Martha Stewart).
With lots of summer sun left (which means plenty of excuses to party) here are a few no-fail tips to help you throw a summer soiree everyone will enjoy – yourself included!
- Pick a theme: People love themes and it can really help them get into the spirit of things. Just because it’s summer, don’t fall back on the tried-and-true summer barbecue. Some themes you might consider are a Mexican Fiesta (piñatas, taquitos, Corona), Hawaiian Luau (leis, tropical fruit salad, Mai Tais) or a Pooch Party (dogs welcome). Your food and drinks can all revolve around this theme and it’ll be fun to come up with fun food and decorations to fit whatever premise you choose.
- Pick your music: Depending on your theme, you can find compilation CD’s for just about any type of party. Also, mine iTunes for fun songs and don’t be afraid to ask your friends to bring music as well.
- Send out invitations: These days, it is perfectly acceptable to send out Evites for parties (www.evite.com). Evite has hundreds of themes and designs to choose from, or will let you customize your own invitation. It’s quick and easy and economical. The exception to the Evite rule are more formal affairs like baby and bridal showers. However, for 30 people on your deck, Evite is a great way to go.
- Plan your menu: Simplicity is the key here. You don’t want to be tied to the kitchen during your party. You won’t get to mingle with your guests and everyone will have fun without you — and it’s your party! Plan for low-maintenance dishes that do well at room temperature. Or make sure you have apparatus to keep foods hot or cold as needed. Choose dishes that you can make ahead a day or two before. You can also ask your guests to bring appetizers or desserts, allowing you to concentrate on the main dishes.
- Make a list: Know what supplies you’ll need: plates, napkins, silverware, cooking utensils, mesh food covers (for outdoor parties) extra seating and tables. Don’t rely on your memory to keep it all straight. Hit up your local party planning store for most of these items.
- Clean up: Clean up your house and/or yard the day before your party. If you’ll be out on your deck, sweep everything down, wipe down tables and chairs and invest in some citronella candles. Purchase hostess napkins for the bathroom and leave out plenty of toilet paper so people don’t have to go looking for it at an inopportune time.
- Have fun: Most of all, have a great time!
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