This week we're celebrating all of our hard work by playing host. It's time to invite someone over! Yesterday we talked all about falling in love with your home by opening its doors because creating memories within your home surrounded by loved ones is taking the relationship to the next level! Get ready for hometown week (if you know, you know).
The homework assignment is to have a little get-together at your house. Before you get all stressed out, relax. I'm here to tell you that you do not have to overthink this. Whether you're inviting over a few close friends for an Olympic viewing party, or having a full-on dinner party, you can make it as simple or extra as you want. It's your party after-all.
Let's end the idea that your house has to be perfectly clean before you share it with others. Let's stop waiting for the living room to be fully decorated before hosting game night. DO NOT, let your insecurities get in the way of making the most of it. Get out the paper plates if you must, and have everyone bring a snack to contribute. I'm telling you, the only thing that matters is just being together.
Every time I have guests, I feel a sense of pride in my home and I want that for you all too. You should be proud of where you are in your relationship with your home. That being said, keep things light, and have fun with it!
Hosting tips to get you started
If you must tidy up and clean, set a timer for 1 hour and just power through. You really only have to prioritize 2 rooms. The room you're in, and the bathroom your guests will be using.
Light a candle in the bathroom and keep the bathroom well-stocked with toilet paper. We've all been there right?
You have to seat for everyone, but they don't have to match. Get out the folding chairs if you have to!
When people ask you what to bring, you're allowed to give them a response. "Will you bring that potato salad that I love."
Don't overthink the food. You can have everyone bring something to share. I've even been to get-togethers where we DoorDash food once we're there.
It's okay to use paper plates.
If you're doing a game night, plan your games as you would a dinner. Your appetizer is your ice-breaker game, your main course is more of your 2 hr game, and your dessert is something everyone's familiar with.
For game night, make sure you have snacks that don't leave your fingers dirty. Grapes, cheese, crackers, and chocolates are all great ideas.
If you're more of an introvert, try making it small. Maybe even set an end time so you don't exhaust yourself.
Offer your guests a beverage when they arrive. It's a great way to start things off.
Charcuterie boards are not only beautiful, but they're so practical for gatherings.
Here's some posts about hosting we've done in the past.
10 Tips to Start Loving Your Home Right Now
Hosting A Party Amidst Renovation
Tips on Throwing a Dinner Party
Hosting a Friends Viewing Party
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When my sister is visiting Fresno (she lives in Raleigh!), she stays with our parents. This time we got the idea to have her stay a few nights at my house & my other sister’s house, too. The guest room doesn’t have window shades installed, but she’s going to help me put them up. A fun memory, and I get help finishing a project!
All great ideas, however, it makes a huge difference if you and your partner BOTH like to entertain. I enjoy it, but my husband doesn't. I did it anyway, for many years, and tried tactics similar to what you've suggested. It was still stressful, so I finally decided it was OK if we didn't entertain - I don't have to me Martha Stewart to be happy. We just go out to eat with another couple and call it good. Less pressure for both of us.
For food, build-your-own things like a taco or burger bar, pizzas, etc I find helps a lot in the stress department and doubles as an 'activity' too! Last year I bought a 4-person raclette machine with a grill pan on top that was very successful as well - all I needed to do was boil potatoes, dish up pickles and other sliced veg, slice up some German sausages to cook on the grill pan and it was good to go! The clean up was very easy and everyone enjoyed it too.
I love your articles and your feed! I host often and stress every time, thanks for your article today!