Being a host is not easy, with so many details to keep track of and guests to attend to, one could easily get overwhelmed. Check out our tried and true tips to make your experience easier, keep your guests pleased, and give you time to enjoy the party too.
- Plan Ahead – The best hosts prepare beforehand. You would be surprised how easy it is to forget the little things like having enough trash bags, paper towels or even toilet paper on hand. Don’t plan at the last minute. Think about what you would like to serve, what cutlery and serveware you’ll need, and what type of ambience you’d like to create. When booking staff with Hostly, you’ll have access to our Event Success Tips and Preparation Checklist to help with everything from gathering the right materials to guiding your staff during your event.
- Placement – An often overlooked but key topic to consider is the strategic placement of things throughout your event to ensure a smooth party. Think about the layout of your home/venue and where you would like for your guests to spend time. If you have the space, make your event progressional, using different areas and spaces of your home. Place snacks in an area where you would like guests to mingle, but separate from where you or your Hostly staff will be organizing food and drinks like the kitchen. Think about setting up a bar in an unexpected but easy to find location. Place a buffet in an area where there is easy access and flow. Consider inviting guests to have after-dinner drinks and dessert in a different location than where you served the main meal. Make your party flow in the best way possible so everyone can enjoy.
- Labeling – Using sticky notes like Post-Its are an easy way to label which serving dishes you plan to use for each food item. Instead of having to spend time giving instructions on which bowls and platters to use, leave them labeled with a note in advance so Hostly staff can easily place the items in the correct dish. It will save you time and energy and allow you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.
- Create Ambience – Ambience is everything. You’ll want to establish “the vibes”, that feeling that taps into all five senses from the beautifully curated aesthetics to the lighting and background music. Create an atmosphere that encourages carefree enjoyment and meaningful conversation with the help of an unstressed host.
- Invite Wisely – Create a list in advance to keep organized and think about the guests you’re inviting. It’s fun to invite people who all know each other, but also consider inviting guests you think would get along and find common ground. Be flexible when considering if your friend can bring a guest even if it’s pushing your numbers a little further than you anticipated. It will pay off in the long run.
Follow these tips for a smooth and enjoyable time! You can hire event staff to help execute your party plans effectively. Hostly has affordable services that will make hosting your party a breeze by doing all the hard work for you. Contact us to learn more!