Becoming a homeowner is a big deal and having your first house is so exciting. Once you’re all settled in and everything is just the way you want it, there’s only one thing left for you to do. Throw a party! Sharing your new home with family and friends is one of the best parts. Here are a few tips to help you make sure that your housewarming party is a success.
This may seem like an obvious task to do before company comes over, but some may forget the small details like having extra hand towels out in the bathroom or making sure there is enough space for coats in a closet or a bedroom. Making sure that your entire house is spotless is especially important since everyone coming over will want to see every inch of your new house.
When having guests over, it’s especially important to make sure that your home smells fresh and inviting. For the living room or dining room consider lighting a candle with a warmer scent like cinnamon, vanilla, or any other sweet soothing scent you can find. For the bathroom choose a candle that has a clean scent like mint, citrus, or fresh linens. You don’t want the smell to be overwhelming since it’s a smaller space so a hint of any of those options will be just right.
Another great option to use instead of candles are oil diffusers. Essential oils have become a household item that more and more people now have on hand. If you are wanting a natural scent that will also benefit your guests check out essential oils and diffusers at your local health food store, find a rep, or go online.
Having music on is a must whenever having a small get together or party. Music sets a mood and creates a happy atmosphere. Don’t have the volume cranked too loud, just loud enough for the perfect background music. Also, pick either a station or a playlist that is neutral. Choose songs or a station that your guests would know and enjoy.
If you don’t want to play music off of your phone or other devices onto a Bluetooth speaker, go retro. Record players and vinyl are making a huge comeback among millennials. Urban Outfitters sells records players under $100 and also provides a large selection of newer artists on vinyl. Not only are they a past time, they also make for adorable home décor.
Every gathering calls for some delicious drinks, either alcoholic or non-alcoholic. For those wanting an alcoholic beverage make sure you have beer, wine (both dry and sweet), and one or two kinds of liquor available to your guests. For guests that want something non-alcoholic consider making lemonade with a twist.
Add berries or different juices and make it into something fruity and delicious. Pinterest has so many
different recipes for fun drinks that maybe you’ve never thought of. Tea, soda, or flavored water are also great to have on hand for your party. A lot of these can be used as mixers for the alcoholic drinks as well.
For presentation purposes, pick up some decorative cocktail napkins and break out your nice glassware. Set out drink dispensers for the lemonade and tea that way you don’t have to worry about constantly refilling a pitcher or decanter all night long.
Almost everyone loves to munch on something so make sure you have a good selection for your guests to nibble on. A cheese and charcuterie board is a party favorite among many. It usually has a few different types of cheeses, meats, olives, crackers, and fruit. Be sure that when picking out the item for your spread that they complement each other. There are great tips online for how to assemble the perfect cheese and charcuterie board.
A few other appetizer options that you might want to make are buffalo chicken dip, guacamole, spinach and artichoke dip or a meatball appetizer. It just depends on what kind of mood you’re in, and also who you’re having over. Think of your guests and what they prefer and plan accordingly. If there are going to little ones over, make a couple of kid friendly options as well.
Scents, music, drinks, hors d’oeuvres all make for a comfortable, entertaining atmosphere. You want your guests to feel welcome and also to be impressed with your new space. Being a good host is key for a successful party. If your guests aren’t acquainted with one another find common ground for both parties that way there’s not an awkward silence and your friends or family can get to know each other better. Your guests will be thankful and you’ll be pleased when you see everything going well.
Buying your first home is such a milestone life event and who better to share it with then the ones that you love. Your housewarming party will be the first of many more gatherings to come, along with memories made.