I’ve always loved entertaining. One of the reasons I fell in love with our house was that it has great bones for large parties. There are no real hallways in our American Foursquare…just large rooms that are all connected. Since moving into the house, I’ve hosted quite a few shindigs, from baby showers to girls’ nights to birthday parties and more, and I’ve learned a few things.

Hosting an event is fun, but it’s also a lot of work. Forget having to take care of food, decorations, invitations, etc…you also have so make sure your house is spick and span! Luckily, I generally have help from a few friends and the hubs, which makes things much easier!

So here are a few tip I’ve learned when it comes to entertaining.

1. Taste Test

I realize you can’t really cut into a decorated cake, but taste test as much as possible. I love trying out new recipes, but it can also be a little stressful wondering if everyone will like the dish. If I’m making something I can’t really cut into, like a cake or casserole, I do a little mini dish for myself on the side to test. Also, I’ve learned that fruit and veggies can look fine but actually be bad, so be sure to test those too!

2. Plan Ahead for Trash

I tend to forget this one, but it’s so important. We have a swinging door that leads into our kitchen and I usually keep it closed for large gatherings so that we can use the space for prep and staging. To avoid people going into the kitchen looking for a trash can (and quite possibly getting nailed in the face by said swinging door), I usually leave a tray out with a “trash” label. I’ve also used this mini trash can for a few parties. A bit of advice: go ahead and put some trash on the tray or in the can so that people know it’s ok to discard plates and such. And if you’re hosting a shower where gift will be opened, don’t forget to plan for that trash as well.

3. Find Vase Alternatives

I’ll use just about anything for a vase…a decanter, a carafe, a wine glass, a shot glass. I have a ton of actual vases, but I’ve found that using different styles adds a little more interest to the decor. And remember that vases aren’t just for flowers. Silverware, straws, pens, and more can all be displayed in pretty vase alternatives.

4. Do Flowers Last

I usually buy flowers the day before a function, but I don’t arrange them until about an hour before it starts. The reason? Flowers change constantly. Buds that weren’t open yesterday may all of a sudden be blooming. The prettiest flower may be looking a little sad the next day. When I buy flowers (usually the 3 for $12 bunches from Harris Teeter or snips from the yard), I go ahead and cut off the ends and put them in tepid water until I’m ready to arrange.

5. Stockpile Paper Products

I’m really into paper straws. They’re just so cute and fun! I’ve got about 25 packs of various colors and prints in my buffet right now. Any time I see a pack on sale for a dollar at TJ Maxx or Target, I get them. I also shop for plates and napkins after holidays so I’m always prepared for the next year. I tend to buy in bulk and then store left over paper or plastic products in zip lock bags to keep them feeling and smelling fresh. It’s nice to know that if I have an impromptu cocktail hour at the house with the girls, I can pull out cute napkins and straws!

6. Label Everything

I’m not a huge fan of chalkboards or chalkboard paint in my own house, except when it comes to parties! Chalkboard signs are the best for labeling your food, beverages, or even where to put your trash (see above). I got my easel style boards at Michael’s and my little chalkboards at Target. For me, chalk pens are essential. I absolutely hate writing in chalk, and it never looks good. Chalk pens give it a nice, clean look that won’t smear. (You can check out my cocoa bar labels here!)

What are your best party tips?

Check out these parties that I’ve helped to host!

Girls’ Night: Favorite Things Party
Ahoy, It’s a Boy! Nautical Baby Shower
Girls’ Night: Paint Party
Storybook Baby Shower
Beatrix Potter Baby Shower
Monograms & Mimosas Shower

PS – I wrote this post on my brand new laptop and I’m so in love! I’ve had my old trusty Dell for 5 and a half years and it’s been awesome, but it was definitely time for an upgrade. I decided to go big and got this one, and I could not be happier. Yay!