"Party at home” guide

Are you looking to “party at home” this winter? Hibernate with friends & family. Here is your “how to party at home” guide:

Décor tips:
1. spread all your missed matched glasses around your house with votive candles
2. pick a color scheme and drape your furniture with swatches of fabric
3. hit up your local dollar store for fabulous streamers, balloons, and party favours
4. go to the local flower market & buy bunches of misc. flowers – they’ll look great in any vase
5. dig out your white linen table clothes, give them a press so they’re crisp & fresh looking

Food Tips:
1. keep it simple and do as much in advance as possible – you don’t want to spend time in the kitchen when your guests arrive
2. finger food is much more stylish solution than having paper plates – it only requires napkins
3. pick one dish to be the focus and present it in a stylish way (i.e. chilli served in bread bowls or risotto served in a parmesan wheel)
4. choose warm, comfort food like warm dips (ex artichoke or goat cheese & pesto) – it’ll break the cold & encourage guests to stay longer
5. have a plan in case you run out of food. Always keep back-up gourmet chips on hand and spring rolls in the freezer

Hosting Tips:
1. the biggest thing about being a good host is endurance – make sure you’re the last one standing
2. encourage guests to mix & mingle – always introduce guests as they arrive & drop “notable” tidbits about each person to generate conversation
3. eat a lot but drink a little – make sure you don’t get too tipsy at your own bash, you need to be in control
4. invite 1 or 2 very “colourful” people to the party to create intrigue and excitement
5. always have an after party plan just in case your guests want to continue the good times – make a reservation at a local pub or bar

Musical Tips:
1. burn discs or create playlists for every phase of the party – slow to start and up-temp for the high point
2. be a good DJ & read your crowd – don’t insist on music that isn’t working
3. define the dance floor with a disco ball
4. put the person with the best musical taste in charge of the sound system
5. a small, packed dance floor is better than a large & empty one – think about where to put the furniture

Party Hair & Make-up:
1. avoid last minute panic – decide on your “do” & look in advance (google pictures of your fave celebrities)
2. long hair? Get out your curling iron, curls are a classic party look
3. don’t let your “do” wilt – use plenty of hair product to keep it fresh & stable
4. think about the lighting when you do your make-up – home lighting is more revealing
5. match your make-up with your outfit – echo one of the colors on your eyes or lips

Have fun! Cheers!
Renata Altrão & The Gatherings Team