Secrets to Successful Entertaining: The Challenges of Successful Entertaining

Entertaining can present a challenge, but it can also be fun for you and your guests.

Consider the following secrets to successful entertaining.

Choose your guests carefully:

Ideally, entertaining compatible people almost guarantees a successful evening. You know your friends, their interests, their backgrounds and are aware that they would probably relate well to one another. Arrange a date and time for them to meet in your home, so that they can get to know each other and you can get to know them better.

Choose an appropriate theme:

Thematic entertaining is fun because it can open many interesting doors. Let your guests know ahead of time what your choice of themes will be. For example, “we are going Hawaiian,” sets a theme that allows your guests to dress Hawaiian, bring a Hawaiian dish, flowers or a plant to share. Perhaps they have a Hawaiian love story they can tell. Decorate your home and table appropriately. Maybe set out some Hawaiian artifacts or books, as conversation starters. A Hawaiian game might be fun. Do some online research about Hawaiian tradition ahead of time. Find out how to make Hawaiian chocolates or Hawaiian drinks. 

Give your guests accurate directions:

Make certain that your guests know exactly where they are supposed to be and how to get there. They may need additional information on the availability of parking. Give them a telephone number where you will be in case they get lost or have problems finding their way.

Timing is important:

Set a time that works for everyone, including you. For example, “we will be having cocktails and appetizers at four pm. Dinner will be served at six. Later, we can relax, play games and listen to easy music.” Your guests know when they should arrive and what to expect when they arrive and throughout the evening.

Advise your guests how you expect them to dress:

What to wear to any party is something every guest wonders about, at one time or another. Advise your guests ahead of time whether your party will be casual, semi-formal or formal, so that they dress appropriately for it. You want them to feel comfortable in among others. If you are planning a Halloween party with costumes, barbecue or a pool party, make certain that they are dressed for it. If it is a costume party, have some extra costumes or costume items around, just in case they show up without costumes.

Establish appropriate guidelines for behavior:

Letting your guests know ahead of time that they cannot smoke or engage in substance abuse in your home, is advisable. You may also suggest that drinking is in moderation only and that they should appoint a designated driver. You may also advise them to bring their own drinks. 

Plan your evening well:

Most well planned parties are relatively successful. Having everything ready ahead of time is a good idea, but allow room for the unexpected, just in case. Create a peaceful, warm, welcoming environment for your guests with appropriate food, flowers and candles. Do not overdo it, as that can make your guests feel uncomfortable.

Set out a welcome mat:

Be there to welcome your guest when they arrive and introduce everyone, as soon as possible. Encourage your children to be on their best behavior and find fun things for them to do, too. Do not allow arguing or fighting.

Check for allergies:

Ask your guests ahead of time if there are allergy problems related to pets or other things that might be in your home. Food allergies are important, as well. Remove anything that they suggest might be offensive to them.

Relax and enjoy your guests:

Most guests are somewhat apprehensive at any party, so smile a lot and encourage them to relax, as well as to be themselves. Make certain that they are comfortable and know where to find anything they may need. If you appear relaxed, they will relax. Perhaps ask one person to help you at your party, so that you can spend some quality time with your guests.

Remove breakables:

You probably have fragile items that you do not want accidentally broken. Make sure that they are placed somewhere out of the way, ahead of time. Guests should be able to move around without any difficulty, so make certain that where you entertain your guests allows them to be comfortable. Having an outdoor patio or yard gives your guests the opportunity to get a bit of fresh air, now and then. Make certain the environment is not too warm or cold.

Be gracious:

New thoughts and ideas are fine, but sometimes they can be overwhelming to guests, so do everything in moderation. You do not want them upset by anything you or others do or say, so always be gracious. Avoid inappropriate language or conversation and do not make fun of your guests or allow others to do that, as it may not be fun to them.

These are just a few secrets with respect to successful entertaining. Remember that entertaining is about your guests being able to relax, have fun and enjoy their time with you. It is also about you enjoying your time and entertaining experience with them. If they enjoy themselves, they will want to come back again. You will probably invite them back, too.