Making a Party

Making a Party

Balance your guest list
Here's a tip; Aim at a balance of personalities within a framework of not-too-different interests and backgrounds. Choose some shy guests, some outgoing (and see that they meet). Your best bet; People genuinely interested in others.

Create a party atmosphere
This helps people relax and catch the mood for fun. The big thing is the setting. It needn't be fancy. Of course, the party in your living room is apt to be more formal than one in the back yard. Make sure your table looks attractive, uncluttered. Lighting is important too. Use lamps and the glow from candles and fireplace. Skip the harsh overhead lights.
Do things in keeping with your own budget and surroundings-your entertaining will have a flavor all its own.

Make your schedule flexible
The good hostess keeps a finger on the pulse of her party. For instance, at a dinner party there is the "right" time to eat-the alert hostess can sense when it is, pick the moment before conversation lags or appetites become ravenous.

Plan ahead for successful party
* Organize you party early. List major jobs which must be done ahead; Decide what to serve, groceries to buy, how to set the table, when to cook the food. Plan a schedule and check off each item as you finish it.
* Serving something new? It's a good idea to try the recipe first - see if you like the flavor, if it suits the occasion.
* You'll save diswashing if you count on smart ovenware and electric skillets that can travel from the kitchen to the table.
* Before the party, decide how to split the duties between the host and hostess.
*Budget your time-save some precious moments to relax before the guests arrive.

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