Top Entertaining Tips
For those of you who may be entertaining friends, family, and random stragglers while bringing in the New Year, I thought I would put together a go-to list of entertaining tips. Since being married I have noticed we entertain quite a lot! I’ve picked up on a few new things for my list. But most importantly, HAVE FUN! And if you have some other helpful hints please share! The more the merrier!
Beautiful setup for holiday gathering at my sister-in-laws |
Everyone loves a signature cocktail. Mimosas are always loved! |
Pretty pretty pretty! |
Ambiance: When I was a wedding planner, I always told my brides the most inexpensive way to dress up a wedding was with candles. And I will have to say the same rule applies to a home. Grab some fun candles and stands to put around the house. If you have the time, put together a couple flower arrangements for your tables and bar. A little bit of this does wonders!
I have a candle problem….I’m obsessed |
Cups, Plates, Cutlery: Whether you are using your own or using plastic, make sure you have enough! (Tip–have your dishwasher free and unloaded!!) The worst would be to run out of any of these. For plastic cups, put out a fun marker or stickers so people can remember which glass is theirs. If you are using your own cups you can use wine glass charms if wanted. If you go the plastic route, find some fun decor for the plates and napkins. Don’t just do white…BORING!
Keep it Simple: Simple is still delicious. If you are having friends over, the last thing you want to be doing is spending all your time in the kitchen. (Now for some family members on the other hand….just kidding!) Create a menu that you don’t need to spend too much time on or you can prepare prior then heat in oven. Our most common menus are a big salad, casserole of some sort (I love baked ziti!), and garlic bread. This feeds a lot of people but doesn’t require us to do much while our guests are there.
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Baked ziti can be throw together and put in the fridge until ready to bake |
Fun Jams: Obviously if a big game or event is on make sure to have it on the tvs. If not, I like to have music on. Sometimes I feel having the tv on is a big distraction and your guests are more into that. You can put together a playlist of your favorite songs or we like to put on a music channel from the tv. If you do have tv or music on make sure it is not too loud!!