Entertaining indoors sometimes seems daunting, but it is a lot easier when you are prepared! ย Here are some top tips to make your event painless, fun and stylish.
Local event planners, Event Affairs, list their fail-proof indoor entertaining tips:
- Know yourย event: ย Different preparation is required for a dinner party to a cocktail party or brunch. ย Ensure you know what would be suited to the occasion or guests and work around that. ย For an intimate atmosphere with a smaller group, a dinner party is best. ย Cocktails and buffet snacks are better for bigger groups.
- Who to invite: ย Your guests should get along and try to avoid inviting people who may clash. ย Nothing is as stifling as a tense atmosphere! ย If you have a dinner party, ensure that you can comfortably seat all guests. ย Nobody wants to eat dinner while squished up against someone!
- Catering: ย Be aware of all your guestsโ dietary requirements. ย If in doubt, ask them about their preferences in advance and cater accordingly. Culinary dishes of certain countries usually work well with a theme.
- Music: ย Select music suitable to the occasion and the guests. ย Use it as a backdrop and keep it audible, yet soft enough not to interrupt conversation.
- Decoration: ย Decide on items to use to enhance the atmosphere and ambience. ย Flowers, candles, photos, table settings, colours and textures can all be used with great effect. ย List what you need and get started on purchasing or borrowing what you need!
- Timeline: ย Compile an outline of what should be served when, and prepare food and tableware accordingly to keep things flowing smoothly. ย Nobody wants to wait 90 minutes for a main course after their starter!
Things to remember on the day:ย
- Prepare as much as possible beforehand to minimise your time in the kitchen so that you can play host!
- Set up a drinks area with an array of drinks, water, glasses and ice buckets where people can help themselves while you are busy.
- Personally greet guests at the door and welcome them with a drink. ย Introduce guests to each other, especially newcomers.
- Candles are always a nice touch, even during the day. ย Fragrant candles are great for lounge areas, but not on the dinner table as they can obscure the flavour and aroma of the food.
- Personalise the event by using fun photos of guests. ย This can be pinned on a board, or used as part of the table setting. These also make great props for conversation!
These are just a few ideas to ensure you host the perfect event. For more advice, information and unique ideas, we encourage you to get in touch with Event Affairs.
