Entertaining is fun, but many homes don’t have the space for large parties. If this sounds like your home, your only option is to hire out a venue somewhere else. Unfortunately, this is probably an extra added expense you don’t need. The good news is that you can easily transform your home using a few quick fixes, so it’s welcoming and practical for parties of all shapes and sizes. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Maximise Outdoor Space
The best way to make the most of what you have is to allow the party to take place outside where possible. Obviously, this will depend on the weather, but as long as it’s not cold, wet and windy, the garden is the easiest place to accommodate guests. If the weather is looking a bit iffy, hire a gazebo or marquee. This will provide some protection. If it’s chilly, use patio heaters to warm things up a little.
If you have sliding or bi-fold doors, open these up as wide as possible. The aim is to blur the boundaries between the interior and outdoor areas. It will make your home feel more spacious and accessible.
Clear Away Extra Furniture
Too much furniture will cause problems if you invite a big group of people over to your place. The first thing you should do is clear out any unnecessary items of furniture. This includes your best leather sofa and anything you don’t want to risk damaging. Remove everything apart from heavy items, chairs, and a table or two.
The more space you have available, the easier it will be for guests to mingle and form conversation groups.
Bring in Extra Chairs
Chairs are essential. Guests will want to sit down, so beg, borrow, or hire chairs to accommodate everyone. Position chairs around areas where guests are allowed, including outside. Add some tables if you are providing food.
Lighting
During the day, lighting is not an issue, but once the sun goes down, your guests will need plenty of light. Use a mixture of lighting. In the garden, solar lanterns, fairy lights, and post lights are perfect for any areas where there is no power. Closer to the house, you can hang plug-in lights and lamps. Tiki torches are a nice touch in a garden. Don’t forget your pool too. If you have pool lighting, switch it on once the daylight fades. It might encourage people to swim if the weather is warm enough!
Bar Area
You can’t organize a party without providing drinks. Rather than expecting your guests to traipse in and out of the kitchen in search of a glass of Merlot or a vodka cocktail, create a bar area. A portable bar is a perfect solution. These are available in a range of fun designs, so you should have no problem finding one to fit your party theme.
Lastly, decorate your home according to your chosen theme. If you decide on a tropical vibe, invest in some lush plants and fill a few vases with fragrant flowers – mosquitoes are strictly optional!
