How to relax and have fun while hosting

I used to love parties, but hated hosting them. That was before I learnt how to relax and have fun while hosting. So to help you with you next party, I have compiled a list that will put you right on top of the “best host” list.

• Start by deciding what type of party you want to host. Is it a casual dinner or an elegant affair where you have to lay out your best China and silverware? Setting the tone first will make all the other decisions easier.

• Once you’ve decided on the type of party you are having and resolved whether it will be a sit-down or self-serve dinner, you need to write a guest list and plan the menu. Make sure you call the guests who will be attending to find out whether they have any allergies or dietary requirements before finalising the menu.

• A bit of advice: Don’t try a new recipe at your dinner party. Rather cook something you are comfortable with. And if you really want to try a new dish, then test run it a week or two before the event.

• Also consider how much space you have in the kitchen before finalising your menu. You don’t want to make too many roasts and baked dishes if you only have one oven. Something that I like to do when making stovetop mains is preparing a few side dishes, which I make ahead of time and pop in oven.

• Don’t put anything on the menu that will keep you in the kitchen for a long time. A dinner party is as much about food as it is about entertaining.

• Draw up a list of everything you need before going shopping. Your list should include table setting components and decorations, food, beverages, ice, trash bags as well as towels, soap and other items for your guest bathroom.

• Do as much as possible the day before – for example, if you set the table the night before and realised that you forgot something or that you don’t like the look, you still have some time to go out and do a quick shop.

• It’s important to have a fresh, clean, tidy and well-stocked home when hosting a dinner party. Make sure you get the home cleaned thoroughly, a day or two before the party; and stock up on all the party essentials from snacks to items for your guest bathroom as well as disposable plastic containers for any leftovers that your guest might want.

• Consider rearranging furniture to make your home more comfortable for guests. It is highly recommended that you also provide extra seating so no one is standing awkwardly or people aren’t getting up to offer their seats to other guests.

• If kids will be attending as well, plan activities that will keep them busy. Drawing, colouring and other arts and crafts is usually a winner among kids of all ages and genders.

• If the party has a theme or is held for a specific reason, create an iPod playlist to complement it. Even if it doesn’t, it’s always a good idea to create a playlist for your guests that you can shuffle and tweak during the party.

• Get the appetisers ready and stock the bar an hour before the party.

• Make sure that bin bags are readily available – this will make it easier for guests to clean up after themselves, and tidying up will be quicker and easier once they have left.

• Lastly, relax and abandon your insecurities about your home, food and entertaining. Your friends, family or colleagues will only be as relaxed as you are and have fun if you do too.