Things You'll Need:
- Budget guidelines
- Caterer or in-house chef/cook
- Someone to serve or set up the buffet
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Step 1
Plan your housewarming party menu based on how much energy and help you have. If there's little time for prep, buy pre-made salads and cold cuts from the grocery store deli. If you can't make enough appetizers due to the size of your guest list, go with frozen gourmet options or a variety of veggies and dips.
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Step 2
Balance your menu like this: nibbles like nuts and cheese for arriving guests; hot appetizers or main dishes, such as stuffed mushrooms or quiche; cold salads; and an assortment of spectacular desserts.
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Step 3
Give yourself some free time. It's your housewarming! Plan to serve hot foods over a brief period.
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Step 1
Let your theme and resources guide your presentation. Picnic ware is fine for a casual menu. Appropriate glasses and stemware complement an elegant buffet but require more caution and cleanup.
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Step 2
Use food service as an ice breaker. Take your trays of hot food over to guests who are alone, or introduce strangers over some "You've got to try these" appetizers.
