How to Use Design & Organization to Simplify Hosting
We invite people into our homes so that we can enjoy their company, but the process of entertaining can often take away the "joy!" Fear not. With the proper planning and some organizational strategies in place, hosting your special event can be as comfortable for you as the happy guests you are doting on!
Tip 1: Create a Seating Plan
When planning the seating in your living room for everyday use, a rule of thumb is to make sure everyone seated has a place to put their drink. Ensuring enough table surfaces are available on a regular basis will prove to be a built-in boon at party time!
Incorporating ottomans and benches in your everyday design makes coming up with additional seating for a crowd a breeze. For instance, a pair of cube-shaped ottomans can be tucked under a sofa table when not in use. A bench stored against a wall on the regular can act as a visual "plinth" for a sizable piece of artwork, and then be pressed into service when company arrives.
Of course, ample seating in the dining room is essential for entertaining. Even if your event is casual and you are not setting a formal table, plan ahead and have as many chairs as there are guests in place well before the first ring of the doorbell.
Tip 2: Use Multi-Functional Items for Style & Storage
Everyday furnishings can be a party-giver's best asset! Use the space inside a nearby sideboard or credenza for entertaining essentials such as trays and other serve ware, festive candles, linens, and party decor. A humble tea trolley can be quickly transformed into a beautiful bar cart with the right ingredients. Display cases can turn platters, decanters, pitchers, and bowls into works of art when not in use! Having all these items easily at hand, whether tucked away or out for all the world to see, is so valuable to the savvy host.
Tip 3: Have a Plan for Seasonal Decor
Have a section in your garage or storage area dedicated to seasonal storage. Keep storage bins together based on the holiday or event; i.e. group all Halloween decor together, etc. If you entertain a lot you might also want to group event-specific entertaining items in the same way, such as things for baby showers or graduation decorations.
When the holiday is over, I like to take down the small items and store them first, moving onto the larger and larger items. This way when you get them out again the following year, you will be starting with the bigger, foundational pieces, and working your way to the small finishing touches at the end.
Label. Everything!
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Warmly,
