When it comes to hosting, it's essential to be organized and plan ahead. If you aspire to be the "hostess with the mostest," it's time to put those hosting skills to the test. Whether you're hoping to host Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, or just a casual get-together with friends and family, it's crucial to have a solid plan in place. So, where do you start?

First, think about what you want your event to feel like. Do you want it to be a tropical paradise? A cool and nautical affair? A midsummer day bash? Or something more chic and classy? Once you've settled on a theme, it's time to start planning.

Next, create a physical guest list to get an idea of how many people will be attending your event. This will help you plan for seating, food, and other essentials. Once you have a guest list, it's time to start thinking about the details.

Consider the setting, and make sure you have plenty of seating and tables for guests. Think about the food and drinks you'll be serving, and make sure you have enough to go around. You may also want to consider hiring a caterer or bartender to help take the stress off of you on the big day.

Finally, don't forget the little touches that will make your event stand out. From candles and flowers to music and games, it's the small details that will make your event truly memorable. With a little bit of planning and some attention to detail, you'll be well on your way to becoming the "hostess with the mostest.".

Think food

When planning a party, it's important to consider the catering options. Will you have catered food or will you provide it yourself? If you opt for catered food, be sure to consider the menu and ensure that there is enough food for all of your guests, plus an extra 10 people in case uninvited guests show up. It's also a good idea to choose simple, classic dishes that are easy to prepare rather than trying to make one extravagant dish accompanied by several mediocre items. In addition to the main dishes, consider offering snacks and soft drinks or finger foods. If you prefer, you can also allow guests to bring their own beverages, commonly known as BYOB. It's important to consider the preferences and dietary restrictions of your guests as well, so be sure to ask if anyone has any allergies or dietary restrictions before finalizing the menu. Overall, it's important to plan ahead and ensure that there is enough food and variety for all of your guests.

Décor

Throwing a themed summer party requires attention to detail in the decor. While it can be tempting to go all out with a single theme, such as leopard print, it's often more effective to keep things simple and subtle. Use a combination of hues and pops of color to bring the theme to life, rather than overwhelming the space with a single pattern or color.

When planning the decor, consider the three main areas of the party: the gathering space, the food area, and the bathroom. In each of these areas, make a few small changes to bring the theme to life. For example, in the living room, add curtains and pillows that match the theme, along with a corresponding centerpiece. In the kitchen, use a theme-friendly or neutral tablecloth and disposable ware, and consider adding a small touch such as a chalkboard sign or bar sign. In the bathroom, choose a shower curtain that fits with the theme, and keep the space clutter-free and fresh throughout the party.

Finally, don't forget to add small bouquets of flowers throughout the moving spaces to add a touch of whimsy and brightness to the party.

Music

To create the perfect atmosphere for your party, it's important to choose the right music. If you have access to a DJ, that can be a great option. However, if you don't have a DJ, you can still create a great playlist on your computer or phone to control the mood of the party. Just be mindful of the music levels and make sure not to upset your neighbors. Taking a few minutes to curate a playlist beforehand can go a long way in setting the tone for a successful and enjoyable party.

Get cute!

Photo by Makhmutova Dina on Unsplash — Photo by Makhmutova Dina on Unsplash

"Finally, make sure to put your best foot forward and show up fully dressed and ready to party! As the host, you set the tone for the celebration, so don't forget to treat yourself and dress up for the occasion. Your outfit should exude excitement and help to elevate the anticipation for the party. Remember, this is a time to celebrate and have fun, so make sure to find time to enjoy the party and let loose!"

Congratulations! You have just become eligible for consideration to host Thanksgiving dinner.