Gathering together with family, colleagues and friends is a sacred time for many – a time where people come together for laughs, fun and relaxation.
Many people tend to host these events at public settings due to their apartments being too small or fear of not having adequate outdoor space at home to accommodate a large number of guests.
Another common fear that sits in the mind of hosts is ensuring the proper manners when introducing colleagues into their private lives.
Here are some tips to help you get passed those fears and help you to host the perfect gathering that your guests be sure to enjoy.
1~ Proper Planning. Planning is the most important part in hosting a successful party. Besides the food choices and drink combinations, spend time preparing your home for the correct amount of seating for all guests.
2~ Who to Invite. When preparing your guest list, it is suggested that you should include people that you find smart, quirky, interesting and those with a great sense of humor. A good number to begin with is around six to 10 people, all from different backgrounds and cultures. This will keep conversations lively and fun for everyone.
3~ Time. The length of a party is important so that no one gets bored or feels obligated to spend their entire evening out. The perfect amount of time for a gathering is 3 ½ to 4 hours – with a fun event in the middle to break up monotony. A quick game or even a special food presentation is a good idea for this time. Maybe, change seating half way through the dinner so people can connect and converse with multiple guests.
4~ Food. Instead of filling your table with a simple array of snacks, try offering a diverse variety of food options for your guests to try. Offer food from other cultures that everyone may not have tried before. It’s best to offer small plates and finger food, for easier and less messy eating, unless you decide to have a sit-down meal.
5~ Decorations. It’s not necessary to spend a fortune on decorations to make your house ready for the party. By adding some flowers to your entryway, table area and patio – things look new and refreshed. Purchasing small solar lighting help liven up an outdoor event, and buying a few colorful throw pillows, hand towels or a rug for the entry way can improve the whole look of your home.
6~ Play Music. There is good reason why nice restaurants play background music – it makes people feel relaxed, comfortable and ready for a good time. The best kind of music to select is upbeat, yet not overbearing. Make a combination of old favorites mixed in with some new music.
7~ Take Time to Mingle. Make sure that as the host you don’t spend the entire night refilling food dishes and topping off drinks. Make a point to spend quality time talking and mingling with all of your guests, showing them how happy you are that they came.
8~ Always Offer Dessert. Even if your gathering doesn’t consist of a main meal, skipping sweets is a hostess no-no. Whether you bring out a decedent layered chocolate cake or simply serve fresh fruit and ice cream – never skip the sweets.
9~ Leave the Mess. Even if the sight of dirty dishes piled in the kitchen drives you crazy, fight the urge to clean the house while your guests are still there. Walking around and taking dirty plates from guests is okay, but trying to tidy up the entire house when everyone is still present can be a buzz kill. Remember time spent with others is sacred and the mess can wait.
10~ Walk Everyone Out. When people begin to leave for the evening, a good host is sure to thank each guest for coming and walking them to the door. This shows them that their presence was appreciated, making everyone feel special.
Money can’t buy a great experience filled with good food and great conversation. These gatherings help you to truly get to better know colleagues – building and strengthening relationships.
