Now that we’re well in to the holiday season, I thought it’d be fun to share some tips for hosting! Since moving into the new apartment, I’ve been hosting a lot more, since I actually have the space to do so. (My old apartment was a tiny studio – I loved it, but it could basically only fit one person haha.) I’ve hosted so many things at the apartment in the last few months- countless Bachelor Mondays, game nights, dinner parties, casual kickbacks, pumpkin themed nights, and most recently a Friendgsiving. The cancer in me LOVES to host, but it can be a little stressful at times. Here are a few tips I’ve gathered from hosting!
Always block off 20 minutes for you to freshen up
During prep time there’s always so much going on, it doesn’t make sense to have your outfit on while you prepare everything, obviously. Sometimes though, you’re running around until the last minute and guests arrive early, and then you’re stuck either leaving your guests alone to get ready, or you’re stuck looking a little worn out through the whole party. If you block out some time before you expect guests to arrive, it’ll save you a headache.
Prep your playlist beforehand
Have you ever attended a party without music? Let me tell you, the vibe isn’t great. It semi feels like a movie without a soundtrack. If I’m in a rush, I usually just play the Spotify top hits playlist – most people will know the songs, and it usually goes off without a hitch. For speakers, this one is my favorite. Akash got it for free at a work event forever ago, and to this day I use it every single day. We also love playing music on our Google Home speakers, so it plays throughout the whole apartment in every room.
Have a backup
Hosting a dinner party? Prep some backup entertainment! We always have a chest full of games on hand, just in case things go south and we need some entertainment to spice it up. Some solid favorites are: playing cards, Codenames, Cards against Humanity, and Akash’s recent fave has been Settlers of Catan.
Keep snacks on hand
Usually an hour or two after dinner, if people are still around, the munchies begin. I always always keep snacks out, so that people can grab food throughout the night and are never hungry.
Keep the drinks flowing!
Same with drinks – I always keep both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks on deck. Usually sparkling waters are a big hit, and they stay good for a long time, so whatever isn’t consumed during the night I’ll hang on to for the next party. Also, don’t forget ice! If you have a refrigerator with an ice machine you’re a lucky one – but if you don’t, make sure to make ice during the week before your event.
For potlucks, ask everyone to let you know in advance what they’re bringing
Potlucks make your job a lot easier as a hostess, but everyone’s been to a potluck where the coordination wasn’t great so you ended up with 90 tubs of macaroni. I usually make a Google sheet and share it with everyone coming, so I have a clear idea of the gaps in my list and can prep accordingly.
Hope these are helpful as y’all are preparing to host this holiday season!