Not everyone is comfortable in the role of hostess, yet at some point you will surely find yourself being one. Whether you are throwing a birthday party, hosting Thanksgiving dinner, or just having friends over for cocktails, these tips will help you feel a bit comfortable in those awkward fitting hostess shoes.

1. Make a Simple Plan- The key here is SIMPLE. It becomes easy to over think and over plan when it comes to entertaining guests. Your menu, cocktails, and décor should be minimal. It is better to do a few things (and do them well) than to over extend yourself and feel overwhelmed. For food: serve two appetizers, one main course, and a side salad. For cocktails, have beer and wine and skip the endless options. As for décor, simply gather a few vases of flowers and group them together. How simple is that?

2. Borrow- If you are not frequently hosting parities you may find that your collection of wine glasses and dinner plates are slim. Don’t stress, just borrow! I bet someone you know (your Mom, Best Friend or Grandma), has a fabulous collection of fabulous dinner plates or wine glasses. I suggest you call them about a week before and start rounding up what you can. This will make it so much easier for you and they will feel like they are helping, a bonus!

3. Keep Your Style True- If you would not typically host (or enjoy for that matter) a formal dinner party, please do not throw one. Your guests will only be as comfortable as the hosts, so keep it simple and stay true to your style. If burgers and beer are more your style- go for it!

Do have tips that help make entertaining less stressful? Share them with us!

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Tags: cocktail party, dinner party, entertaining, table settings

Posted by Myriam under Hostessing |