Entertaining:
How
to Host an "Open House" Style Party
An
open house is a great way to entertain guests without the stress of
a sit-down dinner. With a bit of advance planning, you can actually
relax and enjoy your own party!
Here's How:
1) Schedule at
Least Four Hours.
Four hours gives
enough time for people to appear and disappear at will, assuring you
a good turnout. Four hours also allows you plenty of time to spend
with each and every guest.
2) Avoid a Crowded Crush.
If you have more
guests than space, stagger the hours of the party on the invitations.
Invite your closest friends and family from 1- 5, business associates
from 1- 3, and friends and neighbors from 3- 5. Keep the groups
clearly defined in case your guests compare notes.
3) Keep it Simple.
Exotic foods may
be great for some parties, but for an all day open house, the simpler
the better.
4) It's Always the Beginning.
Since guests are
arriving at all different times, it's always the beginning of the
party for someone! Keep food platters and drinks full and tables
cleared throughout.
5) Stay Relaxed
and Flexible.
You never know
exactly how many people are going to show up for your all-day affair
and whether they'll be the fun friends or the shy family members, so
you have to be ready to "go with the flow."
~ By the
Editors of CreativeHomeStyle.com
Have you
planned an open house style party? Share your ideas, tips, recipes or
menu suggestions. Did you incorporate special touches that made the
party even better? Tell us - If we use your ideas, we'll send you are
romantic gift for the home.
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