Are you planning a party? While you may spend hours on Pinterest boards, planning perfect snacks and decorations, you also need to make sure you think about what will make your guests feel welcome and relaxed. No one wants to host a party and have their guests feel awkward, unwelcome, or like they would rather be at home! So, before your party day arrives, make sure you look at all of these serious party blunders that you really need to avoid.
Not Greeting Your Guests Properly
Imagine walking into someone's home, and no one acknowledges you. It isn't a very good feeling. The first impression your guests receive will set the tone for the entire event. If you're too busy fiddling with appetizers or adjusting the playlist to greet your guests, they are likely to feel like a complete afterthought.
How to Fix It:
No matter how crazy things get at the start of the party, try to make sure you pause to greet each guest at the door. A simple "Hey! I'm so glad you're here!" works wonders, especially if you are busy running around and don't have time for an immediate long chat. If you're mid-task, at least make eye contact and say, "I'll be right with you!" It's all about making your guests feel seen and appreciated.
Acting Stressed Out
Nobody wants to feel like they're adding to someone's stress. If you're running around frazzled, barking at your partner about the missing napkins, or sighing dramatically over burnt cookies, your guests will feel guilty for even showing up. People can feel your stress!
How to Fix It:
Always try to prep as much as you can ahead of time. Choose dishes that don't require constant attention or meals that you can make completely in advance. And remember, guests are here mostly for good company, not Michelin-star perfection. If something goes wrong, laugh it off. Your chill attitude helps guests relax, too.
Making It All About You
While it's great to share stories and updates, dominating every conversation can make guests feel like background extras in the movie of your life. If people are nodding politely as you speak while also sneaking glances at their phones, it might be a sign you're monologuing and probably need to stop.
How to Fix It:
Be genuinely curious about your guests and let them do a good amount of the talking. Ask open-ended questions like, "What's new with you?" or "Tell me about your recent trip!" Balance in the conversations is so important. A good host knows how to keep the spotlight moving so everyone feels included.
Not Considering Dietary Restrictions
Few things are more uncomfortable than watching everyone else enjoy a meal you can't eat. If you overlook dietary restrictions, your guests might feel like an afterthought or, worse, go hungry.
How to Fix It:
When inviting people, casually ask if they have any food allergies or preferences. It doesn't mean you need to craft an entirely separate menu, but even a simple side dish or dinner option that accommodates them can make a big difference. It shows you care and that your guests matter to you.
Creating an Awkward Seating Arrangement
Plopping everyone down at random can lead to stiff, uncomfortable silences. Nobody wants to be trapped next to Uncle Bob, who only talks about his coin collection, while their fun friend is on the opposite side of the room.
How to Fix It:
Think about your guest list. Who has common interests? Who's good at keeping conversations flowing? Strategically mix familiar faces with new ones to spark engaging chats. And if it's a casual gathering, let people move around freely and find their own place to sit instead of designating assigned seats.
Overly Formal Setting
Unless it's a black-tie event, going overboard with fancy table settings, rigid time schedules, and strict rules can make guests feel extremely uncomfortable. If people are afraid to put their glasses down without a coaster, no one will ever be able to relax!
How to Fix It:
Focus on creating a warm, relaxed environment. Soft lighting, cozy seating, and a playlist that sets the mood can do wonders. Encourage a help-yourself attitude with drinks and snacks, and let conversations flow naturally without rigid timelines.
Ignoring Your Guests
It's easy to get caught up in hosting duties, but if your guests are left to fend for themselves for too long, they might feel like wallflowers at their own party. People can sense when they are being blatantly ignored, whether it is on purpose or not! A good host would not make this mistake.
How to Fix It:
Always try to check in with guests throughout the event. A simple "How's everything going?" or "Can I get you anything?" makes people feel cared for. Also, don't be afraid to delegate! Let a friend or family member help with refills or music, so you're not stuck in the kitchen the whole time but able to actually talk to your guests.
Forgetting About Background Music
Silence can be awkward, especially in the early moments when guests are trickling in. The absence of background noise makes every clink of a fork or awkward pause in conversation feel about 10 times louder.
How to Fix It:
Always create a playlist ahead of time that matches the mood you're going for. Keep it at a volume that is low enough for conversation but still lively enough to fill quiet gaps. It's even better if you mix in crowd-pleasers that get people reminiscing or singing along, or maybe even dancing!
Not Offering Drinks or Refreshments Quickly
Imagine walking into a party and standing around parched while your host is busy elsewhere. This can not only be uncomfortable but awkward, too. People always relax more easily when they have a drink to hold and something to sip on.
How to Fix It:
Have drinks ready to go as soon as guests arrive. It can be anything from water to wine or even a fancy signature cocktail. Just offering a beverage right away helps break the ice. A self-serve drink station also encourages guests to help themselves without feeling like they're bothering you.
Making Clean-Up Too Obvious
Nothing says, "Party's over!" like the host aggressively clearing plates, vacuuming crumbs, or stacking chairs while their guests are still mid-convo. It can make people feel like they're overstaying their welcome.
How to Fix It:
Tidy up the essentials if needed (like clearing empty glasses), but save the deep clean for after guests leave. If someone insists on helping, let them! But remember to keep it casual and clean alongside each other. The goal is to maintain a relaxed and casual mood throughout the entire night and never make people feel like they're holding you up.
Bonus Tips to Make Guests Feel Extra Welcome:
- Personal Touches: Light a candle, fluff the pillows, or add a small centerpiece to show you put thought into the space.
- Comfort Items: Have blankets, extra seating, or even slippers if it's a cozy gathering.
- Goodbyes Matter: Walk guests to the door, thank them for coming, and send them off with a warm farewell.
Make sure you go over all of these potential hosting errors before every party. Avoiding these common mistakes will help your guests feel relaxed and welcomed. They might even declare you the greatest host of all time!
This article was first published at Spatula Desserts.
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