Aug 12 2008
Playing Hostess
If you’re hosting a dinner party, and your usual t-shirt and jeans is not exactly what you had in mind to wear, how do you pull together a lovely ensemble without going extreme? A little planning goes a long way. When you have so many other important details on your mind, last minute dressing can be a nightmare.
Plan ahead, have your outfit pressed and ready.
Keep it simple, a knit wrap dress is universally flattering and paired with a nude or beige heel can keep it relaxed, yet classy. Or maybe your in the mood for a sundress? A white blouse or tunic can be dressed up or down easily and is always appropriate for the summertime. Add a colorful pair of hoops and your ready for the hor d’ oeuvres!
Freshen your face right before the guests arrive. Make sure your hair is where it is supposed to be and touch up with some lip gloss.
DO wear an apron, there is no limit to the fabulous aprons available on the market, here are some of my favorites.
DON’T be the center of attention with you choice of dress. You want your guests to shine, not the converse. I made this mistake once, and once only when I was hosting a formal event. I chose a full-length red gown. Though lovely, it was too formal for the event and I ended up as the most extravagantly dressed female in attendance. Needless to say, I felt rather awkward the entire evening.
Remember your guests, they’re who really matter! Offer them a refreshing drink upon their arrival, make sure music is playing to set the mood and have a subject picked for great conversations.
Have you hosted any parties recently? Tell us about it! Any tricks you’d like to share?
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Priceless piece of advice I received in the form of a question: I was running around anxious preparing final details for a party and a friend called and said “well these are your FRIENDS that are coming, right?” big sigh of relief. yes, my friends don’t expect perfection and they won’t mind chipping in to help. And when the hostess is at ease and enjoying herself, it sets the tone for the whole party.
Also, guests usually LIKE to help out. So don’t do all the work ahead. It gives them something to do with their hands and can save them from feeling awkward if they’re not comfortable with conversation yet. Also, they feel more invested in the event. Small tasks might include cutting veggies, arranging a tray of goodies, lighting candles, hauling in wood for the fireplace…
Thank you so much Connie J.!
Great tips!
We had a large party hosted at our home Sunday night- and your absolutely right, guests love to help wherever they can. It’s a simple ice-breaker that requires no effort and very little for-thought.
I’m definately adding you to my feed reading list
During large parties, I know I always appreciate it when the host/hostess makes an effort to even simply say “hi” and ask how I am, etc. I know that especially shy or new people easily get lost in a large crowd. I try to touch on as many people as I can when hostessing-if only for a quick “how are you?” and give a hug (to the ladies, that is:). Their whole countenance brightens and it’s so rewarding!
And, BTW Christa, regardless of the situation, you did look fabulous in that red dress:).
Happy Hospitality!
-Sarah
I love, love, love to entertain. Not that I always get to. But I usually go for a knit sweater or blouse along with an A-line skirt. The heels I usually wear when I need to be active, like when I’m hosting a party, are usually no more than an inch, but usually half an inch. But really, it’s the jewelry, hair, and makeup that pulls everything together and makes you look polished.
Added you to my feedreader.