Summer is finally here; a season to be carefree, laid-back, and relaxed, right? If you frequently entertain during the summer months, you may be thinking this time is anything but relaxing! After all, planning parties and hosting events for friends and family is no easy feat. If you're worried about the time, money, effort, and stress that have previously accompanied summertime get-togethers, read on for some helpful tips to make your summer bash the best yet!
Enlist help.
Whether this be from family members in your house, a close friend, or even guests coming to your party! Delegate small tasks before, during, and after the event to reduce the workload on yourself and help keep the responsibilities and the mess at bay. Aunt Sally likely won't mind bringing out appetizers to the poolside while you make drinks, and your spouse can greet guests at the door so they make their way to the hub of the party faster. If your get-together is large, consider asking a friend to cohost with you.
Prep in advance.
Anything you can do beforehand will be one less thing on your mind during your party. Make grocery lists, to-do lists, double check that you're stocked up on all nonfood items such as bathroom items, and clean and declutter your house the day before if possible. Doing small tasks prior to the day of will relieve the mental load hosting a party often carries.
Try potluck style!
The great thing about summer is the delicious and simple food abundant during this season. For a more relaxed and informal get-together, consider asking guests to bring a dish. Doing so will reduce the amount of food you have to buy and prepare, while also including your guests and their choices into the party.
Use disposable serving ware and utensils.
For easy cleanup, buy some paper plates and plastic utensils in bulk, and don't forget the plastic cups for lemonade, sweet tea, or whatever your guests' drinks of choice are! After the party is over, forget about soaking pans and scrubbing plates all night--just chuck in a garbage bag and set out with the trash. Easy-peasy and hassle-free.
Set up a self-serve station for drinks, food, or both.
If you expect a large turnout, creating a space with different varieties of food or drink for guests to help themselves to will cut down on the time you will have to spend serving up.
Utilize outdoor living space.
If you have large enough outdoor space to entertain your guests, designate the party to outside quarters only! Doing so will eliminate messes throughout other areas of your house and confine guests to a specific area, allowing you to mingle without having to float around as much. Clean the pool, set out some folding chairs, break out the horseshoes, and soak up the sun!
Stick to a schedule, and know what's happening next.
Nothing too rigid, or guests might feel like they're being ordered around. Loosely plan times for activities, food, cleaning up, and similar tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Safety first.
If you know in advance you will have children, disabled individuals, or the elderly coming to your event, make sure your house is safe and accessible for everyone. Block off areas that can be dangerous for kids, ensure your private first-floor bathroom is accessible to less-abled guests, and have plenty of water on hand to prevent dehydration. Accommodating these needs beforehand can help save time and allow you to enjoy your guests and your party stress-free.
By utilizing and implementing these tips, your big bash is sure to go off without a hitch!
By utilizing and implementing these tips, your big bash is sure to go off without a hitch!