No matter what people might think about the cold weather, winter is a time to be merry with plenty of parties to attend. If you are hosting a party at your home, these tips make it convenient for your guests to arrive safe and get into the festive mood.
Keep the Driveway Snow and Ice-Free
Guests want to have a great time, and a snow-filled driveway is not a good omen. Neither is an icy walk to the door a sign of a festive evening. Use a shovel and ice melt to ensure that anyone who comes to your party can arrive safely. With many things to prepare for the party, professionals can clear the snow and de-ice your lawn. Like many northern cities, hiring a snow removal service is the best way to remove snow from your driveway before an event or gathering.
Keep the Front of Your House Neat and Clean
No one wants to show up at a party and gaze at an unkempt lawn, front porch, and sidewalk. Make it easy for those arriving by car so they can pull right up to your house. Your guests go directly inside without impediments, and you can enjoy their company instead of worrying about shoveling.
If You Offer a Coat Rack, Be Sure it’s Sturdy and Easy to Use
Your guests want to be comfortable, so keep the coat rack sturdy. Even if you have a lot of coats, make sure that there is enough room for everyone to organize their outerwear and hang it up quickly. You might need to clear up closet space to make room for coat storage.
Make Sure your Bathrooms are Ready for Action
Clean, working restrooms that are well-stocked with toilet paper and other basics contribute to the comfort of your guests. Make sure to clean up any messes before the party starts. The last thing you want is a guest using your bathroom and finding something gross. The bathrooms are not the place to experiment with creative party décor, either!
Make Friends with Your Neighbours
Your guests will appreciate this gesture because it makes them feel welcome. It is convenient for them to arrange for your neighbors to park their cars on the street or side of the road.
During parties, you might encounter drunk drivers who miss their turn-off because they’re intoxicated. Instead of watching helplessly as a risky event crashes your party, find out what your neighbors are willing to do to keep guests safe. If they don’t participate in the plan, hire a rental company to park cars on the street.
Your guests should be safe walking between their car and your front door. If they must walk through an unshoveled side street and cross a busy road, explain it to them and offer to accompany them if you are able.
Be Prepared for Changing Weather Patterns
If you live in a climate with unpredictable weather, make sure to have the forecast on hand to anticipate any weird changes. For example, you might need extra coats and sweaters for your guests if there is a sudden snowfall during the party or an unexpected cold snap. If you live in a hot and humid environment, factor that into your guest’s wardrobe choices.
Make Sure to Have Plenty of Food and Beverages on Hand
If you want your guests to have plenty of fun, make sure they’re well-fed and hydrated! A night of drinking can lead to dehydration. When you host parties, it’s your responsibility to keep the drinks and food flowing so that no one has to wait.
If you do not want alcohol served at your party, be sure to remind guests of this ahead of time, especially if they are bringing their wine or beer. If you provide non-alcoholic beverages, make them as tasty as possible so people will prefer them. If you know someone is on a restricted diet, make sure there is plenty of food for them to enjoy.
It’s not just about keeping your guests full and hydrated. Before the party, make sure you have enough non-breakable dishes, flatware, glasses, dish towels, and garbage bags to handle any messes or leftovers.
Have Plenty of Entertainment
You want your guests to have a great time at the party! If you are inviting them to dress up, have photo booths or props on hand so they can get into the spirit of fun. You can also offer party games because playing is a lot of fun. Make sure there is always an activity available, so your guests don’t get bored.
If you want your guests to leave with great memories of the party:
- Make sure you surround them with festive decor.
- Before the event, decide how much time and money you can spend on decorating.
- Keep a supply of red cups on hand for an easy option, so every drink looks more fun!
- You can spruce up a corner for social media pictures and selfies. A banner or a unique feature usually attracts these kinds of photo opportunities.
Be Prepared for the Worst
If you have low ceilings or a small apartment, you need to prepare your home for many people. If your party is on the larger side, make sure you have extra chairs and stools so even tall people can rest their feet.
If some guests must leave early because they have work in the morning, have an empty bedroom where they can sleep it off. Provide blankets, pillows, and even snacks so they don’t get hungry.
Suppose there are many people at the party. You’ll want to make sure that everyone has fun without feeling too cramped or uncomfortable. You might need to provide transportation for people who drink too much if they cannot drive themselves home safely.
Winter is full of holidays and parties. Hosting a party at home should be fun and memorable, and it is a time to make new friends and keep in contact with the old. The tips in this post can help ensure that your parties are excellent even in the middle of a cold, snowy night.
