Thursday, November 15, 2012

For the Perfect House Party, Avoid these Mistakes

Overdoing decorations or themes. Enhance your home with adequate trimmings without overwhelming it. Strategically place decorative pieces where they give the best visual effect and lend the proper mood to the area. Your party should be the theme; not the adornments. Don't deck your halls to the point where guests get tinsel-tied each time they take a step. Balance and arrange decorations for everyone to enjoy; not just the first who arrive or the last who leave. Include the seated and the standing.

Overlooking food preferences. Consider all your guests when planning your menu. Provide an array of food and drink choices for everyone; Dieters, Vegans, Drinkers and Non-drinkers. Search the internet for Cocktails, Mocktails, and a variety of other GREAT RECIPES . If you're not sure what kind of substitution you need to make for one of your guests, check with them beforehand. They'll be thrilled that you asked, and will be happy to share their favorite recipe with you and others.

Putting your food out and forgetting about it. Try to serve food throughout the duration of your party. Especially if cocktails are offered because your guests will need to "feed" their drinks. Instead of setting everything out at once, have various trays brought out in intervals. This way, food stays fresh and  your guests stay intrigued over the wonderful surprises that keep coming. They'll also stay "upright" since you're constantly giving them something to nibble on as they sip their drinks (if you know what I mean).

Cleaning only the public areas of your home. Include your personal areas when tidying up for your party; even if you plan to entertain in only one room. Don't leave personal items lying around and clear medicine cabinets of anything you don't want "accidentally eyeballed" by your guests. And most of all...

Forgetting to enjoy yourself. Give yourself enough prep time to grab a nap or just relax 30-40 minutes before your guests are due to arrive so you can greet them with a smile that's fresh and sincere. Days before your party, arrange for cleanup assistance so it's not on your mind as you watch the dishes stack up. Remember, this party is just as much for you as it is for your guests. So enjoy the fun!



~~~~~Tell Tammy~~~~~
What festivities are you planning over the holidays?




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