Tonight I am lending my home out for a friend’s birthday party. There is very little expected of me beyond getting parking passes, providing some serving dishes and a clean environment, but it got me thinking about the elements that make a good party.
I think my parents both naturally have the hospitality gene. As I mentioned earlier, their home is warm and welcoming. But it doesn’t stop there! In his professional life my father is a distinguished hotelier, while my mother is the consummate host. Fortunately I am at the age where I not only recognize my parents’ value, but also am humble enough to ask their advice. Namely, what makes a successful party?
I asked, they answered and here are their words of wisdom:
- Create an Environment that is warm, authentic and peaceful. As the host you should not run around or have a frazzled edge. This makes guests feel uneasy. Instead give yourself plenty of time to prepare so that your attention can shift once your guests arrive.
- Appeal to all the senses. The colors you use, candles, flowers music and food/ alcohol all contribute to creating a welcoming environment. Allow all of these items to be characters in the event’s story.
- Make sure that you welcome your guests warmly (be it with a hug or smile) and that when it’s time to go you give them a fond farewell.
- Finally, a successful party must be topped off with a great deal of laughter. So make sure to enjoy the moment.
A party can be warm- be there 2 guests or 200!
I agree with all these statements!!!
Totally agree!