I know it can seem overwhelming to host a gathering, party or get-together. I am the face of overwhelmed at the prospect. I needed/wanted to host something – under 25 people. I was careful to keep the list at that number and under; no casual adding on. If you want to host and you have a fear of it, start small – whatever your comfort level is – it might be a gathering of five. The best part of hosting is the way the anticipation of the event has you look at your home anew. Suddenly you will see counter clutter that you thought made sense, but now doesn’t.
You’ll imagine guests filing in – what will you do with their jackets? Shoes off or on?You’ll peek into your closets perhaps a little mortified at the bursting of it. Does the door close easily? Now you have your motivation! This isn’t the time to work on your Clothing, Papers, Books or Sentimental items (4 of the 5 categories in the Marie Kondo method of tidying).
In hosting – you are going to focus on the category of Komono. Komono is the Japanese word for miscellaneous items. Follow Marie’s advice for breaking down Komono into manageable sub-categories. Example; in the kitchen: kitchen tools, bowls, glasses, etc. Focus on your komono in the kitchen, living room, dining area and entry way.
And when you work on Komono – remember her philosophy of gathering all items that are the same. You may have cleaning items in the front hall closet, under the kitchen sink and in the bathroom. Gather all of these supplies on the open floor of a room. Then one-by-one pare down, merge, throw out, give away. Try putting them back all in one place so you know where everything is. The concept is to have like with like so you never say: “Where is…?” And you will create more blank space for ahhh time.
I was in luck that my party was only called for 5-7 pm. This was very doable! Consider giving yourself a brief window of time. Do not ignore your inner introvert or introvert/extrovert who likes some social time and a nice amount of alone time!
But what about food? What to serve? Again, keep it simple. Try appetizers, nuts and fruit, finger food instead of dinner. Splurge on macadamias or Marcona almonds, dried apricots, cheese, guacamole and blue chips, some good chocolate broken in squares on a small plate. Make and serve what you love. You’ll find vegetarian options within that. Make it colorful and playful – have fun! Try wine and beer instead of cocktails. What’s your favorite wine? Skip buying a plastic bag full of ice and start making ice a week before so you’ll have enough. Pretty much all stores now carry paper plates, cups and bamboo cutlery. Skip the expensive, single-use, plastic. Your clean up after the party will be so easy! Now that you have a simple plan, sit back and relax and enjoy your guests. They will be so happy to be invited to your warm, yummy and comfy gathering!
Great advice and ideas!! Thanks Rebecca!!🥰