Limit the guest list to the number of guests appropriate for the amount of space you have available. [1] X Research source If you have a small space, consider hosting 2-3 smaller parties rather than one big one. Remember that more people lead to a more expensive party; if your budget is tight, try limiting the guest list.
Planning a party 2-3 weeks after you move in can give you enough time to prepare and unpack, but will give you an added incentive to get yourself settled. [3] X Research source
Use social media or an electronic invitation service if you want to send electronic invites and cut down on party-related expenses. [4] X Research source For a more formal gathering, consider sending paper invitations. Be sure to include the date, start time, and end time on your invitation. Request an RSVP so that you can plan for food and drinks appropriately.
Consider the time of your party when planning for food. If your party takes place at a common mealtime, guests may expect to be fed. For example, a party that takes place from 4-9 should probably provide a full meal for dinner. Consider what types of food the people attending would enjoy eating: for example, if one is a vegetarian, don’t prepare a meat-heavy selection. Be realistic about how much time you will have to prepare food. If you won’t have much prep time or if you have a limited budget, try keeping your food options simpler. [6] X Research source A few easy party foods are: fresh fruits and vegetables with dips, cheese and cracker trays, chips or breads with savory dips, rolled deli meats, meats wrapped around other items such as vegetables or fruits, sandwich trays, and meatballs. If you provide a hot meal for your guests, consider preparing in and serving from a slow cooker, so you do not have to do much cooking after your guests have arrived. Be sure you have adequate plates, bowls, serving utensils, and eating utensils prior to your guests’ arrival.
If serving alcohol, provide a variety of options, such as both red and white wine and two or three kinds of beer. Consider making a specialty punch for the occasion. Many guests like trying new things, and a homemade punch (with or without alcohol) is often popular at parties. Be sure to have clean water available for guests, either in a filtered pitcher or in water bottles.
Hide any unpacked boxes in closets or stack them discreetly in a corner. Be aware that at a housewarming party, guests will likely want to look at every room in your house, so even the rooms that aren’t “finished” should look neat.
Be practical when decorating your home. If you have several small children attending your party, you may not want to put breakable knick-knacks at low heights. Be sure that furniture and wall hangings are secured properly so that no guests are injured in your new home.
Be sure to provide plenty of toilet paper, tissues, and a hand towel or two in each restroom. [8] X Research source
If you have any unfinished rooms, ask guests if they have any suggestions for how to use or organize the space. This will take the focus off of the fact that you’re not unpacked yet and give guests an opportunity to feel helpful. Feel free to tell guests that they cannot go into certain rooms. It is your home, after all, and you do not have to show everyone every room in the house.
Consider keeping the food and drink areas separate to avoid crowding. Providing two or more locations for food can also prevent crowding.
Be sure to thank them for any gifts and explain how/when you plan to use the gift. Mention a specific moment from the party that you found particularly funny or touching to make the note more personal. Make a suggestion for getting together again in the future to show that you enjoy the person’s company.
