Sparkle and Shine
Today is the last day of our Derby Party Planner~Sparkle and Shine.
I think one of the biggest reasons people are hesitant to entertain in their home is because they think it has to be perfect. Perfectly clean, perfectly decorated and perfectly setup but that’s just not true! But~I get it. All the years I regularly entertained with young children it was stressful. Working full time and managing a household was enough to balance then throw in worrying why we didn’t regularly clean our windows and it was to much! My family dubbed it PPS-Pre Party Stress.
Over the years and many many parties later I have boiled it down to five things to do before your party. I call these the sparkle and shine:
One: Only tidy up the rooms your guests will use. Typically this is the kitchen and or dining room, living room or den and a powder room. This may involve temporarily moving items to other rooms and that’s ok. I used to keep a footrest empty just for dumping stuff in there pre-party.
Two: A few decorative touches can really make the house feel welcoming. I like to put out a new candle, seasonal tea towels and pillows the week before the party.
Three: Stage everything earlier in the week. If you are hosting a large party go ahead (particularly in winter) and setup the area guests can place their coats. If using your bed doesn’t work or that hallway coat closet is full to the brim you can use a folding clothes rack in the entry way. I’ve seen some on Amazon as low as $30. I stage my table, buffet, bar and extra seating at night after work.
Four: Pick out your outfit the weekend before the party. I’m talking everything from your clothes jewelry and shoes. I even do a try on session -often I’m wearing something new or not in my everyday wardrobe. This will prevent you from rushing to put together something day of the party. The day of the party the first thing the host should do is get ready. I don’t know how many times I was still in the kitchen in my pjs when guests were minutes away. You’ve worked hard for the party and you deserve to look spectacular!
Five: Finally about 1/2 hour from start time light your candles grab a beverage and sit down to relax for a few minutes. You’re going to be the best host ever!
Wishing you the happiest Derby Day whether you’re at home watching alone or on the way to the track everyone can celebrate the fastest two minutes in sports!
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