Remember I mentioned wanting to throw a party? Well we’re doing it! This weekend we’re hosting an autumn themed party in our building’s lounge. My husband brewed beer, I made apple cider and we have a whole menu of fall treats to serve.
Above is the mood-board I created for the party’s decor. I have a ton of DIY projects going on this week, plus recipes to bake. I won’t lie, any party takes planning and brainstorming, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. Honestly, I follow the exact steps I used to plan my wedding. Adapted to smaller scale of course, the following steps are how I plan any party, dinner or event in my home.
- Figure out what you can spend. A budget always comes first with any type of planning. When I’m planning a party at home, large or small, I figure out what I can spend and let that dictate the type of party I throw. If I have a smaller budget, I ask friends to bring a dish and have simple decor. If our budget is larger, my husband and I like to take care of everything ourselves.
- Guests. Once there’s a spending limit set, I figure how many people I can invite for the type of party I want to throw. If having a full meal is important, than I know a smaller guest list is best. If I’m serving small bites then more people can potentially come. I try to be as inclusive as possible by keeping friend or family groups together. I hate leaving anyone out!
- Menu. Depending on time of day, guest count and (insert broken record) budget, I build a simple or elaborate menu. For an afternoon event, we serve a light lunch. Mid-afternoon, small bites or a tea. For evening, we will usually provide a full dinner. After 8pm, we stick to cocktails and desserts.
- Decor. DIY, purchase or let your food and home be all the decor you need. First step, create a mood board like the one above. It will make coordinating so much easier. Pinterest is a godsend. If we’re having friends over for dinner then I like to keep things simple. Clean up, arrange furniture in a comfortable setting for conversation, fresh flowers and maybe pin up a welcoming garland. For larger parties, I like to go all out! DIY is great for tighter budgets. Making your own flower arrangements and a photo backdrop out of wrapping paper are easy and inexpensive ways to decorate. And of course balloons! I love to use 17″ round balloons for parties. Just a few scattered in a lovely color is a nice touch.
Formal or casual, I figure out these four steps first. Of course there can be a few more factors like music, games or another activity. But, when entertaining at home there’s always room for informality. Everything doesn’t need to be perfect. Flaws in your entertaining style can be charming. Your best friend may always want to bring the dessert because you can’t stand baking. Then it becomes a tradition :)
Entertaining at home is more about offering a wonderful time for friends and family. Being a good host is above all the most important, no matter what your budget or guest list.
