Some people are just attuned to what it means to be the perfect host. They are the ones who not only throw the best parties, they are the ones that ensure that everything goes according to their plan. The secret to being the perfect host, however, is that anyone can do it. All you need to do is put effort into the planning, and to have fun. For those of you who are still not sure how to be an excellent host, read these five tips that will help you go above and beyond:
- Curate Your Guest List
The fact of the matter is that not everyone gets along with everyone. It is okay not to invite all of your family members if groups don’t get along together. You could either alternate parties so that everyone gets invited to at least one party if you want to be fair, or you could keep your guest list to close family and friends only. If people are going to be bringing a ‘plus one’ that you have not met yet, you could consider using a people search to get some contact information for them. Similarly, you could also host friends and family separately. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to host more parties, just that you keep the guests to those who like each other, those who get along, and those who you actually want to host.
- Decorate
What’s a good party without some great decorations? This is particularly important during holidays, like Christmas or Halloween. Not only is putting effort into the decorations a great way to get into the holiday spirit, it’s also a great way to instantly make your party a hit. Who doesn’t love being in a well-decorated home? Especially if it has an obvious theme, like with any of the big holidays of the year.
- Keep Food Simple
The secret to feeding a crowd isn’t to try to appeal to everyone’s tastes, but to instead keep things simple. While it may be tempting to try out the fine dishes you see in magazines, you should save yourself the trouble and keep things simple. This is how you will ensure everyone enjoys the food, and how you’ll actually find time to prepare it properly. Stick with foods you can prepare in advance and quickly serve on the day.
- Invest in Your Wine Selection
With wine, however, you should up your game. Wine is an easy investment if you do your research, and it can also be the secret to your party’s success. Invest in cases of vintage, and in a few years when it is ready to drink, you’ll have a beautiful, full-bodied wine that might even be well-beyond your budget. To do this, buy young wines by the case, and store them in a fine wine storage facility like Octavian Vaults, where the environment is kept at the ideal temperature and humidity to ensure your wine survives the ageing process. This can be for both business and pleasure – drink them yourself, or sell them!
- Have Fun
The last tip is to have fun. Just because you are hosting, after all, doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the party yourself. Let your hair down, mingle with your guests and relax.
Hosting parties is perfect to stay in touch with your loved ones. It is also a great way to be the highlight of every season, year after year. To be the best host possible, plan, organise and deliver beautiful food and wine. If they’re fed and well-watered, you guests will be sure to have fun.
