I love having people into my home, but I know for many people being a hostess can be a very stressful endeavor. So today, I am sharing some of my best tips to help you be a confident hostess capable of throwing a stress-free soiree!
- Ask for help: most people usually turn down help, but if someone generously offers to help, say yes. This will end up saving you some time with last minute details. The best way to do this is to invite a few of your closest friends to have a pre-party and delegating a few things at that time.
- Provide an inviting and comfortable environment: Everybody is happy when they feel comfortable in the hostess’s home. If your house is a shoe free home make sure that your guests are aware of it. You can simply line your shoes at the door to set the example and if you’re comfy and happy your guests will feel it.
- Food: Food should be appetizing and not have people guessing what it is. Slice the bread and leave some crumbs. Make sure you slice a couple of cheese pieces so that your guests won’t be afraid to dig in!
- Make time: Give yourself a least 25% more time than you think you’ll need. If you plan correctly you won’t be stressed out at the last minute.
- Clean as you go: Your house is the cleanest home pre-event, so keep it going by loading the dishwasher and cleaning as you go.
- Set the tone: Greet and make introductions, keep the conversation moving, and keep the evening flowing. You set the pace for the for your get together.
- Light candles: Candles set the mood in every room. I love the idea of adding scented candles to the bathroom to make it as warm and pretty as possible.
- Simplify by preparing some things ahead of time and keeping it simple: Set your table or buffet the night before. Your dishes should be simple. Don’t make a 45 min Moulton lava cake or a complicated dish especially if you’re doing it for the first time! Prepare some food the night before…especially desserts, dips etc. It can still be simple and elegant at the same time.
- Fun Factor: Remember you’re happy to do this for the people you’re inviting, so instead of stressing, plan ahead.
Afterwards, you’ll only have to deal with the hugs and thank you notes!
Happy Hostessing!
XO,
Sandra Maddox
