Most importantly remember the key to entertaining is to be is a host or hostess whom expects to have a good time! Keep it carefree and fun… always.
1. Forget the dishes. Ready to enjoy the good times without a mountain of dishes afterwards? Keep some fun disposable cups, plates and napkins in the pantry to pull out for your next gathering. Today you can find options that are bright, pretty and fairly durable, and you get to toss them out at the end of the evening, no washing necessary.
2. Don’t stress when it comes to food. Keep simple crowd-pleasers on hand. Versatile options that offer variety like Tostitos nachos and dips are great because you can offer a variety of flavours, or even elevate these ingredients with a simple recipe, using items you already have in your fridge.
3. Keep décor simple. Burlap makes a great table runner and elements from nature are perfect tabletop décor. This time of year is bright and beautiful outside, so if you’re looking to add some accents to your gathering, just look to your own backyard, literally!
4. Let everyone help. The best part of entertaining is that it is almost always informal. Your friends are resources -- do you have a friend who can mix a mean cocktail? Perhaps there’s someone who always brings the best playlists. Use your friends, by inviting them to bring something they’re passionate about to the gathering. This will help you free yourself up for your most important job… spending time with everyone!
5. Keep things in one room. Keeping your guests in one main room, like the family room helps focus any pre-party tidying and clean up afterwards. Looking for extra space? Slide your coffee table to one side to provide guests a little more space to hang out.
6. Capture the memories. Digital cameras are great but retro style instamatic cameras are always a crowd pleaser and allow guests to take some memories home to post on their fridge. As we all know, our smart phones are also perfect for capturing these get-together moments, so feel free to snap a couple pictures that way. You can post later as a great way to toast your beloved guests!
