Entertaining Solo

Over the years I have watched my single girlfriends attend parties rather than throw them. I have differed because the hostess in me can’t be held down, yet watching the hostess in many of my girlfriends lay low seems so unnecessary.

So just before you decide that couples have cornered the market on the summer dinner parties, think again!

The weather is becoming more and more gorgeous by the day and the smell of summer is irresistible. Whether you find yourself inexperienced in the world of entertaining, fearful of opening your ‘my decorator is out of town’ house or you just need to boost your shindigs, read on.

I have listed a few stellar ideas for the summer season that will have your friends and family knocking on your door a little more.

Decide that you are not an ‘attendee’ of life, yet you are the girl that makes it happen. So dust of your barbeque, get out your address book and get going!

Before we get started, always set a budget for each night, and DO NOT deviate. You will have a much better time at each event, knowing that you can put petrol in the car for the next two weeks rather that admiring the unnecessary Dolce & Gabbana placemats you just ‘had to have’.

Tips
• Flora - The beauty of summer is that nature does most of the decorating for you. If you have a great garden or courtyard, decide to have dinner alfresco. If not, grab a big bunch of your favourite flowers to display inside.

• Décor - Don’t ever panic that the chairs or plates don’t match. Just give your party an eclectic theme. If you have a collection of old plates, give everyone a different one.

• Lighting – I am a big fan of fairy lights. Use them whenever you can, don’t follow the unwritten rule that December is the only time they can shine! If you prefer tea lights and have no tea light holders, use old glasses, teacups or saucers. On their own, they may look odd, but huddled together in the centre of the table makes a gorgeous glow.

• Drinks – Invest into a drinks tub. My parents always use their laundry tub, but if you haven’t had time to do the laundry, you will need an alternative. Throw in a few bags of ice and you’re set.

• Music – Burn a great collection to play throughout the evening. That way the DJ in you won’t tire having to change discs a hundred times.

• Food – Keep reading THE FAMILY ROOM blogsite for summer recipes that are affordable and oh so easy. When your friends offer to bring something, allow them to. Drinks and snacks are suitable.

• Dress – Whatever you feel great and comfortable in, wear! Take time and make an effort, you are so worth it! That goes for your home as well. Tidy up and let some fresh air in before the night.

• Extra’s – Think of things your guests may need to enjoy their stay. Have a cute box on display with some or all of the following: sunscreen, Aeroguard, flip flops, beach towels, hats, sparklers or bubbles for guests with kids, etc.

• YOU – Don’t forget that the primary reason people are visiting your home is for you. Yes spend time on making the experience great for them, but don’t forget to shine. Hop out of the kitchen and sit and chat with everyone. Have fun!

PS – Don’t forget THE FAMILY ROOM LIVE…CHRISTMAS WITH THE GIRLS on 16th Nov! To register call 1300 886 283. Seats are limited, so book yourself and your friends in today.

Michaela.
©The Family Room 2006