How to Host a Garden-Themed Housewarming Party

When you have completed your list of things to do for your garden-themed housewarming party the only duty left is to host. Being the host of a party is far less stressful than planning the menu and choosing drinks, so do your best to relax and enjoy your guests and your gifts.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Food
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Extra garbage cans
• Container for returnables and recyclables
• Bug-repelling candles and torches

1. Stay close to the entrance. This enables you to say hello as guests arrive and to direct them where to put their gift, as well as to where the food and beverages are located. Keep an eye out for guests you could not greet when they arrived. Make a mental note of the guest you couldn't greet right away and do so as soon as possible.

2. Make a short thank you speech. This doesn't have to be anything fancy or long-winded. Simply get everyone's attention and thank them for coming and tell them to enjoy themselves.

3. Restock food and beverages if necessary. When all of your guests have arrived, check the food and the drinks, and replenish anything that is running low. Check your wares, as well. Restock glassware, barware, silverware and flatware.

4. Mingle about. Whether your garden-themed housewarming party is in the backyard, around a pool or in the house, be sure to mingle about so you can spend time with all of your guests.

5. Keep your guest list handy when opening gifts so you can thank your guests later for the specific gifts in thank you notes.

6. Watch the entrance for departing guests as the night nears its end. Be sure to say goodbye to as many people as possible and thank them for coming.

Tips & Warnings

• For an outdoor party, be sure to have bug-repelling candles and torches lit to keep the bugs away. Candles containing Citronella, lemongrass or lavender work well and smell good, too.
• When having the party outside, be sure to have an extra garbage can in your yard, deck or patio.
• Place a container near the beverages for returnable and recyclable aluminum cans and glass bottles.
• Don't let guests that have had too much alcohol drive home. Get them a ride, call a cab or ask them to stay until they have sobered up.
• Pay attention to how much alcohol you are drinking. It is never good to be a drunken host.

Resources

• Party food and drink recipes can be found at Foodnetwork.
• Evite offers ideas and information for many types of parties.