10 Stress Free Entertaining Tips

Please don’t wait to have people over.  Enjoy the time with those who are important with these 10 stress-free entertaining tips

Entertaining seeks to impress.  Hospitality seeks to bless. – Jen Wilkin

If you spend any time on Pinterest, Instagram, or even Facebook you will see tons of amazing photos of parties and get-togethers.

Sometimes it stops people from inviting friends over which is a shame.

BTW- If your friends judge your home or food, you may need to find a different circle.

SETTING THE TONE

The relaxed host has relaxed guests.

As hosts, we are setting the tone for the event.

In my younger years, I hosted many parties where I was frazzled trying to get stuff done.  Learn from my mistakes.

Here are 10 Stress-Free Entertaining Tips

Prepare Ahead

Yes, we know…stating the obvious.  But what does this really mean?  There are lists like this Party Planning Checklist from Real Simple, to keep you on track, but here are a couple of tips.  Keep a party supply bucket on hand so you have everything you need in one spot.

Also, make sure to prep as much of your food as possible.  When thinking of recipes, keep in mind food that can hold overnight so you can make ahead.

Invite List

Sometimes less is more.  Have you ever been to a party that is full of a ton of people you don’t know?  Honestly, sometimes it seems like the host is trying to impress with a huge list.  You may need to go through your list a couple of times to really make sure these are your peeps!

One Special Thing

Do what you do well.  Is you cheesecake to die for?  Do you love to set an amazing tablescape?  Do that and then purchase the food.  Focus on that.  Give your best shot with what you got and leave the rest to other people who do what they do well.

Ask for (Except) Help!

Since we are focusing on what we do well, we need help with the other stuff.   If your friend loves to decorate, ask them for help.  Of course, we don’t encourage anyone to take advantage of anyone, but some people really do want to help.  Let them!

Have a Plan

Remember those hours on Pinterest?  Well, now you have everything from a formal sit down to a backyard gathering.  You are confused and overwhelmed.  Think of what you want to do before you start exploring.  When we were moving, I didn’t look for ideas to decorate a new home until after I saw the home we were purchasing.  Think of the party you are going to have and then look for ideas that compliment that.

KISS

People may remember an elaborate party, but really……..isn’t the time with family and friends that most important?  Paper plates and disposable cutlery might be the way to go.  There are some beautiful and biodegradable options available.

Stations

Want guests to mingle?  Have a beverage station in one location, appetizers in another, desserts in another.  Guests will follow the food!

Problems are no problem!

We heard a sermon from a Pastor that said, “If I can get a good story out of it, it was worth it.”  You know most problems are what we actually remember…..”Remember that party where we totally forgot to buy drinks?  There was a mad dash to the corner store and the selection was slim to none so we had to…..”

The problems of today are often the memories of tomorrow.

Don’t Compare

Yes, your friend throws the best parties…..SO WHAT?  Instead of comparing you can ask for her help.  Comparison is the thief of joy.  Do your thing and let others do theirs.

HAVE FUN

Remember, if the hostess ain’t happy NO ONE IS.  Relax……IT’S A PARRRRRTY!  

MORE SALVAGE MOMENTS

Here are a few more posts we think you will enjoy:

• How to Style a Last Minute Tablescape
• ENJOYING THE SIMPLE LIFE
• Woodland Picnic

Thanks for stopping by today.  Our goal is to help make the most with whatever you have by sharing budget-friendly, time-saving, and reusing/DIY ideas for all parts of your home.  If you enjoyed this post, we would appreciate a share on any social media: Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.  Plus, don’t forget to follow us as we share even more ideas on each account.