An open house or housewarming party is always a perfect way to meet neighbors, and welcome friends and family into your new home. You are busy and have a lot going on, so keeping it simple is important.
Don’t spend months planning, you probably have a million other things to do. If you do an afternoon gathering, it’s generally a little more casual. If you want something more formal, then do a dinner and evening get together (you will probably end up spending more money this way too)!.
PLAN YOUR MENU
Feel free to serve appetizers, deserts, cakes, cookies, and tea. It doesn’t have to be a 3 course dinner, unless you are going the formal route. If you want to have some type of heavier food served, food stations are a good option. Having pasta and one other dish, and a couple appetizers is sufficient. Keep your drink options limited (soda, beer, wine). You don’t need to serve mixed drinks or have a full bar, it is a housewarming party, not a wedding.
Keep your invites either verbal, by walking over to your neighbors and telling them in person, and calling your family or friends. You can also do flyers and drop them off. If you don’t request a RSVP, it will keep it more casual.
COUPLE DAYS BEFORE THE PARTY
A couple of days before your party, get your house clean. Make sure you have enough seating for everyone. Make sure to have plates, plastic cups, paper plates, ice, and all of your food in order. Disposable will save you from having to do 100’s of dishes at the end of the party. If your house isn’t decorated, fresh flowers, and candles can warm up the mood in your home and have it more welcoming.
DAY OF THE PARTY
Set up tables, set up food, have deserts ready, have ice. Put out fresh flowers, light candles, etc.
Wait for your guests to arrive, and enjoy your party, it’s always a nice way to end the party by having a little favor for them when they leave (whether having a basket of cookies, or candy at the door); your guests can grab before they leave.
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