How To Have A Great Housewarming Party
Housewarming parties are a lovely way to show off your new space, get to know some neighbors and spend some time with the people you enjoy. There is no better feeling than the one of a new beginning. Below are 10 tips to a successful housewarming party.
1. Put together a guest list.
See how many people your space can comfortably accommodate and start making a list of friends, family and even neighbors you do not know yet that you would like to have over.
2. Create and apply a theme to the invitations.
You can use old school means to invite your guest such as a card sent in the mail, telephone call or knocking on their door . You can use newer versions to get the word out about your party such as text message, email card, or facebook invite. If you choose a theme that requires some costume make sure you do not forget to tell your guest on your invitation.
3. Decide any activities you may want to host.
If you are a host that loves board games, card games , lawn activities or interactive games on your television decide which ones you want to engage your guest with and where you can set those up. Make sure you have plenty of space for your activity so your guest are not knocking each others drinks out of their hands when they score a horseshoe or a strike on Wii bowling.
4. Create the menu
Since it’s a housewarming party, there’s going to be lots of mingling and movement throughout the space. Your guests will become hungry with all the chatter and moving around, so make sure you have some food to serve and a designated place to put it that go well with the flow of the space. Finger foods are probably best. You can ask friends and family to bring a small dish to the party, as it adds variety to the menu. Make sure you have enough for the party guests. As for drinks, you’ll obviously save more by making it a B.Y.O.B. party – but, have at least one drink prepared for guests upon arrival. Some ideas include popping champagne or homemade red or white sangria, and tea.Don’t forget to serve some non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling water or cola.
5. Highlight the details within the invite and send it
Forming a good invitation whether it be verbal, digital or on writing is important. Let them know the time, attire, what to bring if anything , whom to bring and the location.
6. Run out to the store for supplies
Fun party supplies and decorations help add to the atmosphere of your party but if have no interest in throwing an all out Luau at least grab the basics.
Party supplies needed:
- Plastic cups and cutlery
- Paper plates
- Disposable tablecloth or washable
- Ice
- Cooler or drink dispenser if needed
- Serving bowls and plates
- Toothpicks
- Napkins
- Extra seating or tables if needed
7. Start cleaning
Cleaning should be pretty obvious since you’re throwing a party. Take an afternoon to really pay attention to every inch of the space. Make sure the bathroom the guest will be using has plenty of toilet paper, fresh hand towels, hand soap, and has a clean sink , floors and toilet. Make sure your kitchen and living area floors are clean surfaces are dusted. No one wants to eat where it looks like your things have been stored in a barn undisturbed for months. If your party is outdoors make sure your lawn is cut,clean and well lit.
8. Set the mood for the party
Depending on the theme of party you decided there are several things you can do to help enhance the ambiance. You can hang decorative lights,light candles, set out themed decorations , place balloons and signs, and turn on some music.
9. Keep the atmosphere warm and fun
When people start to arrive, begin the introductions and show them the around. A fabulous host makes sure everyone is at home and comfortable. Offer to refill peoples drinks, find a place to set their coats and handbags, make a point to talk to each guest and if you see someone looking a little idle or uncomfortable check on them and help them start a conversation with other guest.
10. Send a thank you
After the party, send a ‘thank you’ to all of your guests that came to celebrate. It could be something as simple as a text, or you could make it more personable by writing a note. Be sure to thank guests for any gifts and for helping you celebrate your new home.