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Entertaining Magic
10 great tips to dazzle your guests
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First of all, stay calm! A frazzled, frustrated host is never fun. Don't stop the party before it starts by getting anxious.
Just take big deep breaths and take time to have a drink (the act of doing this is calming- so even drinking water is helpful) before the fun begins.
- Begin with a good guest list. If you are nervous, make sure you have someone there who knows you really well. Sometimes a reassuring smile is all you need to get through any goofs. Include someone with a good sense of humor. Who doesn't like to laugh?
- Prep your house. Weeks before, list the cleaning, organizing, and decorating requirements. Complete the list 3 days before your party so that all you have to do is a quick clean the day of.
- Menu- generally the food won't "break" a party. However, if you'd like to make something special here is the time to do so. Practice any new recipes so that there aren't any surprises on the party day. And then make a shopping list!
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Can you ask a friend or spouse to do some of the shopping, cooking or decorating? Just be sure that you are still having fun.
- Pick out great music! Whatever the theme of your party pick appropriate music for the guests, theme and time of day.
- Decorations take time. Don't over-estimate your ablities and speed when it comes to the last minute. You cannot string 20 garlands, light 40 candles, arrange the flowers and put dinner on serving trays 30 minutes before your guests arrive.
- Greet your guests! Let them know you are glad that they are there.
- Plan some entertainment. Parties need activities- well most do. If your friends are super chatty and the purpose is to sit around and talk- great. If not, plan a couple of activities- sharing pictures from a recent trip, playing a game or watching a short film are good options.
- Enjoy your party!
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