4 Tips for a Party Friendly Home
4 Tips for a Party Friendly Home.Being a good host is really about making everyone feel both welcomed and at home.This doesn't require ornate interior design (in fact, it precludes that look-but-don't-touch decor). It does, however, require keeping the home somewhat tidy most of the time so that you can let people in without visibly cringing. 1 Expect the Kitchen to be a Gathering Spot.With all the granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and fluorescent lighting, kitchens can feel cold. Making the kitchen inviting and warm can be as simple as have cut flowers in a simple glass vase on the table; a trio of colorful fruit in a countertop glass bowl, or a nearby basket filled with a selection of teas.Think of your favorite little cafe - you know, the place you love to sit and linger. That's the feel to aim for in your home. Of course, this means the kitchen counter is off limits to backpacks, briefcases and handbags that come in the door. Instead, organize your home entryway with strategic holding places to drop-off these items when you return home each evening. 2 Plan for Lingering in the Living Room.Decide to use this oft-neglect room for the purpose it was designed: cozy living and lingering. On a chilly day, simply lighting a fire and gathering two easy chairs around it will do. If a fire is not in the cards, group two cozy chairs with a small table in between. Then you can enjoy an intimate conversation with tea or coffee.3 Give Your Patio a Starring Role.If the weather cooperates, outdoors is often best for spontaneous entertaining. Have a tray handy, grab a pitcher of iced tea or lemonade, and zip outside. Two comfy chairs, a table, and some shade are all you need to excel at simple outside entertaining.4 Make Your Child's Guests Welcome, Too.After all, kids have drop-in guests. Often. Usually, they dash off to the resident child's bedroom. Nonetheless, it's a good idea to have designated snack spots where kids can munch.Let your kids know in advance which snacks are allowed, and where they are to be eaten. (Be sure to remind them that as mini-hosts, they have to clean up behind themselves and their guests.) A friend of mine has a rarely-used front porch hidden from the street view by big, leafy plants, on which she's placed two wicker rockers and a table. This is entertaining home to her 10-year-old, who guides friends here so they can safely chat out of parental earshot. The kids enjoy messy, drippy Popsicles while discussing the trials and tribulations of fifth grade.  Custom Search Party Planning with Kids
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