You're at a party and the host is running around in a panic, has no time to chat and hasn't sat down in hours. If you're inviting guests over for a bash, remember that a party with a frazzled host isn't much fun to attend. But entertaining doesn't have to be so stressful and being the "host with the most" doesn't have to be such a daunting task.
Sandra Deeble, author of A Girl's Guide to Etiquette (Thomas Allen) and Susan Breen, author of Entertaining for Wimps (Sterling Publishing), offer valuable tips on how to be welcoming and warm at your next party. Here's a roundup of some of their best suggestions.
Get the party started
1. The first impression is the most important one. When inviting your guests to your party, whether by phone, mail or in person, make your guests feel like their presence is very important to you.
2. Be thoughtful of a guest's food concerns. Ask beforehand if there are allergies or a special diet you should be aware of.
3. Composure is key. Nothing dampens the mood of a party more than arriving to a frazzled and stressed-out host. Meet each guest at the door with a cheerful greeting and warm disposition.
4. As soon as guests arrive, offer them a drink, take their coat, and escort them into the guest area.
5. When offered hostess gifts, be gracious and say thank you -- when the gift is given and again when your guest leaves.
6. If guests are unfamiliar with your home, offer a tour so they know where to find the restroom, the smoking area or where their coats are being stored.
7. Introduce you guests to one another. There is nothing worse than sitting in a room full of strangers and not knowing anyone's name.
8. Consider your guests' special needs. For example, have a comfy seat on hand for a pregnant friend, a designated area for smokers, or a sweater for a cold friend.
9. Have a wide assortment of non-alcoholic drinks on hand. Many times, a great deal of thought is put into what alcoholic drinks to serve while non-alcoholic drinks are limited to water and soda. Show all your guests they were worth your thought.
10. A smile goes a long way. Remember how you are behaving sets the tone of the party.
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