There are few pleasures like being able to throw a party to celebrate an occasion or milestone or to simply catch up with special people in your life. While you might instantly be inclined to hold your most memorable gatherings in events halls or similar venues, why not consider hosting parties at home more often instead?
Your very own home has the potential to be the perfect party setting. With a few tweaks and thoughtful touches, your humble dwelling can transform into the best choice of venue for several occasions of fun and bonding with loved ones.
Get your house party-ready with these tips, and prepare for celebrations to remember:
1) Clear Out Clutter
Before you set the scene for any house parties to be held at your home, begin your prep by cleaning and decluttering. This is a crucial first step to make your space feel fresh and inviting. Make sure to tidy up and dispose or move unnecessary items to storage. Also, do a deep clean of common spaces and areas that see a lot of activity to ensure the comfort and safety of your guests.
At this point, you might also want to try to visualise the floor plan for your party and move some furniture and decorative items around or out of the room. These simple steps will result in a clean and clutter-free space and a blank canvas to work with.
2) Introduce Interesting Elements
A great party starts with a captivating setting with interesting details and carefully considered elements. Why not plan some house parties with themes in mind? Depending on the occasion and mood you’re going for, for example, you might consider either a light, casual feel, or a more dressed-up vibe.
You can achieve a consistent look by selecting colours and accents that align with your theme. For instance, decorate your walls with art posters of flapper girls or art deco-inspired designs if you’re hosting a 1920s-themed party, or add fresh flower arrangements and other floral elements for a springtime celebration.
Creating a cohesive aesthetic for a house party will demonstrate effort and intention on your part, while giving an atmosphere that invites revelry and connection. Simple but well-thought-out additions will help you get that harmonious look even if you’re limited to using your existing furniture for your house party.
3) Create Designated Zones for Different Party Activities
Next, consider establishing distinct areas for different kinds of activities if you’re planning a bigger party with several guests. Set up a gaming corner for video games, board games, or billiards, separate from a snack bar where guests can enjoy light party fare. You can also create cosy nooks for chatting and drinks, or separate seating for those who prefer more private conversations.
These thoughtful arrangements will give your guests freedom to enjoy and participate however they choose, making for delightful interactions and meaningful moments.
4) Use Lighting to Set the Mood
Lighting can act both as a functional and decorative element to your party. Indeed, the strategic use of lighting is a simple and cost-effective way to transform any space. You can use lamps, candles, and even fairy lights to match the vibe of your house party.
Overhead lighting and table lamps give off a soft, glowing effect, while candles can create a warm and cosy ambience. Meanwhile, string lights or fairy lights offer a playful and whimsical feel, and lanterns lend a fun and festive vibe.
While it might not seem like much, proper lighting can take your house party from so-so to special. The right lighting and ambience will complete a party atmosphere that your guests won’t easily forget.
5) Offer Diverse Food Choices
Food is an integral part of any social event, whether it’s a casual gathering at home or a fancy dinner party. Hosting your party at home comes with the liberty of choosing to either cook and prepare the food yourself or to order out. You can also host a potluck party, where guests bring a dish for everyone to share. Whichever you choose, make sure that you take your guests’ dietary needs and limitations in consideration.
Before planning your buffet spread, ask your guests if they have any food allergies or restrictions so that you may be sufficiently guided. Prepare different options for protein, vegetables, drinks, snacks, and the like that guests with different needs and tastes can safely enjoy. And if you’re planning a potluck party, take note of the dishes your guests offer to contribute to ensure a diverse selection.
Life events and milestones are more meaningful when shared with family and friends in an environment that’s as comfortable and relaxed as your home. It won’t be as hard as you think to prepare to host house parties more often, as long as you know how to accommodate each guest’s needs and requests and stay true to your vision for each occasion.
Looking for artworks that can serve as awesome conversation starters? Furnish your living room, kitchen, or other space you’ll use for a house party with exclusive pieces from DROOL Art. Find your new favourites through our Art Finder Quiz or through our current top deals.
