8 Simple Ways to Throw an Impressive Party without Stressing Yourself Out
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner for family or a block-party for the whole neighborhood, entertaining can be both fun—and stressful.
The key to pulling off a party that you can enjoy, too? Keep it simple. Our incredibly talented Silver Oak Events and Culinary Teams have you covered with easy entertaining tips that will impress your guests and give you time to relax. So, go ahead and pour yourself that glass of Cabernet while you wait for people to arrive. You’ve got this.
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Plan ahead
Checking things off your “to do” list early makes all the difference. For example, Special Events Manager Sally Allred recommends setting the table and taking care of your décor the day before.
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Delegate
Repeat after us: You don’t have to do it all. Focus on one or two things—like providing the main dish and setting a beautiful table—and delegate the rest. Host a potluck (make sure to assign specific items to guests so you don’t get three types of yams), order-out appetizers and sides, or rent dishes (no clean-up!). Taking things off your plate (pardon the pun) will allow you to enjoy and visit with your guests.
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Keep décor simple
A walk around the neighborhood can provide ample inspiration for a simple centerpiece of leaves and berries. Have children? Put them to work painting pumpkins or pinecones. Add neutral linens and a few herbs to garnish food platters and voila! You have a beautiful table.
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Lighting sets the mood
One word: candles. Ok, and two words: twinkle lights. According to our events team, these two things work wonders on your table and throughout your home.
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Delicious food made easy
The key to a “wow” main course? Marinate and/or brine your meats. Also, make sure you taste your food throughout the cooking process to adjust salt or other seasonings. Finally, a word-to-the-wise from our Culinary Team: Only leave 1-2 appetizers to put together during the party. Everything else should be made ahead so you can heat-and-serve.
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Have a well-stocked beverage station
Even if dinner is running a little late, no one will notice if there is plenty of wine and cocktails. Up the ante with a recommendation from Special Events Service Manager Karen Young: Have one “spotlight wine” to serve as a conversation starter, such as an older Cabernet Sauvignon or a large format bottle. (Don’t be afraid of big bottles! A 3L bottle is the equivalent of four standard 750ml bottles of wine).
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Finish light
Don’t stress over dessert. A wine-loving crowd will enjoy a cheese course to finish—or instead of an elaborate cake, do a sweets table or truffles to go.
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Relax
Give yourself a little time before your guests get there—about 30 minutes—to relax with a glass of wine and some good tunes. When people start arriving, remember that the most important thing they want to see is you and your smile!