What's the secret to pulling off a fabulous soiree? There's more to being a gracious host than providing the food and drinks. "It's important that you be a guest at your own party," says entertaining expert Jennifer O'Neil, who, along with her equally fun-loving sister, Kitty, enjoys hosting all types of parties from casual get-togethers to themed events. The sisters say if you're relaxed and enjoying yourself, your guests will follow suit.
Here are more of their tips for making sure your event is the hottest ticket in town:
Rule #1: Be Prepared
- Set the guest list early. Send out invites at least three to four weeks in advance. Give longer notice for more formal affairs and more popular dates like New Year’s Eve.
- Don't leave the details to the last minute. Create your "to do" list at least a week in advance including the menu, drinks and quantities, decorations, and party events. Menu tip: Don’t choose foods that need to be heated right before serving or else you’ll be in the kitchen all night.
- Tidy up. The day of the party, get the public areas of the house tidied up and don't forget that the bathroom will need to be well stocked with fresh hand towels and the like. If you're putting a bedroom to use a coat closet, make sure it's presentable. Keep the lights off and doors closed to the rest of the house to signal to your guests they are off limits.
- Make a party-night cheat sheet. Keep a party night checklist on an index card in your pocket. That way you can know at a glance when it’s time to bring out the warm appetizers.
