To Be a good host(ess) at a party takes some common sense.
1- Always take your guests dietary needs into consideration. If you know you will be having 6 vegetarian guests, make sure you have foods they can eat. Along with your other party foods, make sure to include some good veggie casseroles, salads and platters.
2- Make sure your invitations go out, giving your guests enough time to retain a babysitter if needed. You can’t invite guests at 3 pm on Friday, and expect them to be ready for a party at 8 pm!
3- Always include on your invitation, the manner of attire for the party. Don’t leave your guests wondering, and have some show up in jeans and others in dress clothes.
4- Have a place ready, in your home, for guests to put their jackets and coats(if needed). It’s terrible to arrive for a party and feel awkward about where to leave your belongings.
5- Make preparations! Have music to set the mood of your party. If it’s a holiday, have appropriate holiday music. If it’s a dinner party, have calm, background music. Have an array of different party games, and even prizes for the winners. If it’s a summer pool party, make sure you have plenty of towels for your guests. Don’t expect them to bring towels to your home, where you have invited them!
6- Food and drinks should be plentiful. It’s terrible when you run out of refreshments. It’s always better to have too much, than not to have enough.
7- Greet each guest as they arrive. Invite them to join in a conversation or a game that’s going on so they don’t walk in and just stand around.
8- And always, say goodnight to each guest as they leave. Tell them what a pleasure it was having them and how much you enjoyed their company. Make each guest feel special, and make them want to return for your next party!
And don’t forget, when a guest has a good time at a party you throw, you’re sure to be invited to their next party!
So, have fun and make sure your guests do too. =)