12 Party Tips for Stress-Free Hosting
Entertaining and hosting a get together doesn’t have to be a marathon. Our wonderful grandma, Joyce, loved to throw a party, but that woman would not sit down! We'd be eating her elaborate meals of stuffed tomatoes, twice-baked potatoes, and the timeless Jell-O mold. Joyce would be running from the head of the table back to the over for more rolls, smiling the whole time but missing out on quality family time. I'm plenty guilty, too! After countless parties where I was a bit too ambitious, it was getting clearer that people were coming over to be with me not just there to eat my fairly decent Pinterest creations. Our snacks are ready-to-serve and packed with tasty flavors so you can limit prep time and spark conversation. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to throw a great party and enjoy it—without all the stress.
1. Clean Only What Matters
Focus on high-traffic areas: the bathroom, living room, and kitchen. Everything else can wait.
2. Super Easy Appetizers
Skip complicated recipes. Mixed nuts (like my Cinnamon Churro or Himalayan Pink Salt & Cracked Pepper), cheese and crackers, and store-bought dips are crowd-pleasers that take zero effort.
3. Hot Plates for the Win
Instead of constantly checking the oven, use hot plates to keep food warm. That way, you can actually join the party.
4. Save on Party Essentials
Stick with basic, solid-color plates and napkins. Borrow serving trays from friends, and repurpose holiday lights for instant mood lighting.
5. Make a Day-Of List
Write out the essentials: set up drinks, arrange snacks, light candles, and turn on the music. A list keeps you focused.
- PRO TIP: Balloon arches take longer than you think. Grab a coffee or cocktail and a friend or two. Plan for 1-2 hours. An electric pump is key. Borrow or invest in one. You can find one for $15-$20.
6. Delegate
Ask friends to bring an appetizer or handle drinks. Sharing the load makes everything easier (and it lets guests feel helpful).
7. Pre-mix Your Signature Cocktail
Make a big batch of your favorite drink and let guests serve themselves. No need to play bartender all night.
8. Keep the Main Course Simple
Go for one-pot meals like chili or a taco bar. The more you can prep ahead of time, the better. Easy to make, easy to serve, and even easier to clean up.
9. DIY Dessert Bar
Set out some cookies, brownies, or cupcakes with toppings, and let guests build their own dessert. It’s fun, and there’s no baking involved.
10. Use What You Have
Skip fancy serving platters. A cutting board can double as a cheese tray, and random bowls work perfectly for chips and dips.
11. Don’t Overthink It
At the end of the day, guests are there to see you. Ready-to-serve snacks mean less work for you, more time with friends.
12. Relax
Most importantly, don’t stress! With these simple tips, you’ll spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the party (and your company).