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as you can the night before (setting tables, placing décor, cooking in advance), that way you can leave the last-minute details for the party. I always put notes of things I need to remember during the party on my timeline so I remember to do them.
8. WELCOME YOUR GUESTS AS THEY ARRIVE. This might seem basic, but there’s nothing more awkward than walking into a stranger’s house and having to figure out where to put your gift or find some water. The best welcome in my book is a hello, a smile, and a refreshment! If your guests don’t know everyone, make sure to introduce them to each other. A little trick I use is to not only tell guests each other’s names but also give a little fact about each of them so they can find common ground quickly.
5. DELICIOUS FOOD IS A MUST. Whether you cook it, bake it or have it delivered, make sure your food is good and that people don’t leave hungry. People always associate a full tummy with a fun party! And hopefully you’ll have great leftovers for a few days!
9. RECRUIT “COVERT” HOSTS. I like to enlist my good friends who can work a room to help make sure no one feels alone or isolated. I ask them if they would be willing to include or sit by guests who might not know anyone. You’ll be amazed how much pressure this takes off you and how much more fun your guests will have as a result.
6. BUILD TIME INTO YOUR PARTY SCHEDULE TO GET YOURSELF READY. My party mantra is “If you feel good about yourself, you’ll feel good about your event!” Guys don’t seem to appreciate this as much as girls do. It’s amazing the difference it makes when you take 30 minutes to freshen up before your event. When I don’t make time for myself, I feel off and self-conscious—it’s worth starting 30 minutes earlier.
10. HAVE FUN!
7. BE READY FOR YOUR GUESTS. Be ready for your guests to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before the party is scheduled to start. This way you’ll be ready for that friend who is always conveniently early, and you won’t be frazzled when someone rings the doorbell and your wet hair is in a towel.
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If you’re not having fun, your guests will notice. Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! Just step away for a second, take a deep breath, and ask Jesus to change your attitude. Whether the problem is spilled apple cider or burned cookies, just remember that parties are what you make them. Put on your best smile and get back out there and join in the fun with your friends! Parties are my favorite, and I hope these tips help you enjoy throwing them as much as you love attending them!