Is that how your to - do list begins when you have to entertain? It does, right?
Ever wondered why there is so much free chaos going around when it's time to entertain? Simple - we like the challenge of finding order in the chaos. Never mind the long term effect of such an exercise on our nerves, blood pressure, heart...I could go on and on.
An Army Officer's wife - understandably social and more than understandably busy - once confided, "after a party is over, I sit back, trying to remember what me and my husband fought about just as the first guests were arriving."
Here's what you can do to simplify the chaos. Don't procrastinate - make those sauces and curry bases now. And while on that, I really hope you have the menu (and shopping!) with the information cards to go with each one (think flowery language and handmade paper explaining why the recipie inspired you so much), sorted at least two days before D day. Further, make sure you have those 'party' curtains, throws and colourful pillows (yes, it is imperative to have a collection stashed in your linen cupboard; at least do sheers) - all laundered and set at least 24 hours before (try http://www.arachnestyle.com/, for a whole range, if you're short of options). The fresh flowers must arrive an hour before the first guests arrive, right after you have closed the kitchen, showered and changed. A centerpiece will have been planned and set (waiting for flowers, if required), since morning. The invitations (what? you ARE doing a theme, aren't you?), should have been sent out at least 48 hours in advance. And favours? A week in advance to avoid a mad dash. Even better, plan and DIY. Feels wonderful - just try it.
And when the bell starts to ring, just sink into your favorite couch (not before you've offered a seat to everyone first), and enjoy. Absolutely avoid jumping into the kitchen immediately with drinks orders and platters of snacks. And for Heavens sake, do not start doing the dishes - not even 'to keep the sink clean'! It will only make your guests uncomfortable. By the way, remember that CD you burned with soothing music, in preparation of this party? Now's the time to play it.
While on entertaining, I have come to realise that an impromptu do can be just as much fun. Stack some pillows in a corner, encourage people to pluck their favourite later, fill dry fruit in random sized glasses lined with some colourful napkins and make some quick pasta, a bowl of stir fried veggies, a really easy salad and serve some crackers with home made cheese! Enough to keep everyone happy.
Ever wondered why there is so much free chaos going around when it's time to entertain? Simple - we like the challenge of finding order in the chaos. Never mind the long term effect of such an exercise on our nerves, blood pressure, heart...I could go on and on.
An Army Officer's wife - understandably social and more than understandably busy - once confided, "after a party is over, I sit back, trying to remember what me and my husband fought about just as the first guests were arriving."
Here's what you can do to simplify the chaos. Don't procrastinate - make those sauces and curry bases now. And while on that, I really hope you have the menu (and shopping!) with the information cards to go with each one (think flowery language and handmade paper explaining why the recipie inspired you so much), sorted at least two days before D day. Further, make sure you have those 'party' curtains, throws and colourful pillows (yes, it is imperative to have a collection stashed in your linen cupboard; at least do sheers) - all laundered and set at least 24 hours before (try http://www.arachnestyle.com/, for a whole range, if you're short of options). The fresh flowers must arrive an hour before the first guests arrive, right after you have closed the kitchen, showered and changed. A centerpiece will have been planned and set (waiting for flowers, if required), since morning. The invitations (what? you ARE doing a theme, aren't you?), should have been sent out at least 48 hours in advance. And favours? A week in advance to avoid a mad dash. Even better, plan and DIY. Feels wonderful - just try it.
And when the bell starts to ring, just sink into your favorite couch (not before you've offered a seat to everyone first), and enjoy. Absolutely avoid jumping into the kitchen immediately with drinks orders and platters of snacks. And for Heavens sake, do not start doing the dishes - not even 'to keep the sink clean'! It will only make your guests uncomfortable. By the way, remember that CD you burned with soothing music, in preparation of this party? Now's the time to play it.
While on entertaining, I have come to realise that an impromptu do can be just as much fun. Stack some pillows in a corner, encourage people to pluck their favourite later, fill dry fruit in random sized glasses lined with some colourful napkins and make some quick pasta, a bowl of stir fried veggies, a really easy salad and serve some crackers with home made cheese! Enough to keep everyone happy.
No comments:
Post a Comment