It was a day we were all patiently waiting for, and it has finally come, all areas in Scotland have moved to Level 0 which means a lot more freedom and the chance for long-overdue catchups with friends and family. For so many of those that moved home during the pandemic and more recently, it means that you can welcome your loved ones into your new home and have the housewarming party you’ve been dreaming of.
Currently, in Level 0, restrictions mean that up to 8 people from 4 households are allowed in your home and can also stay overnight, and up to 15 people from 15 households outdoors. On top of that, you don’t need to physically distance yourself from family and friends in a private home or garden.
So now that you’ve got your invite list sorted, what are your party plans?
The menu
Before deciding what you’re going to cook, reach out in advance to your guests to avoid hiccups, both figuratively and literally. You may already know everyone’s dietary requirements but it’s best just to double check as it might have been a while since you’ve all met up.
One way to make sure every guest is satisfied is by serving a buffet-style feast with several different dishes. This keeps things casual and allows your guests to come and go to the table when they’re ready. You also avoid the judgement of going for seconds, thirds and maybe fourths! A good idea is also to do a mix of hot and cold foods so that for those late comers, there’s still food available that doesn’t require reheating.
Worried you might run short? Keep a back-up reserve of tasty party snacks in your fridge, ready and primed for action – or perfect for tomorrow’s work lunch.
Since we’ve been enjoying such lovely weather, you may also want to have a Summer BBQ instead. It also means you can have more guests outdoors! For refreshments, why not fill large jugs or pitchers with cooling cocktails or mocktails so everyone can help themselves? Plus, this means you’re not in and out of the kitchen every 10 minutes.
One thing to remember is not to stress over the food. If cooking isn’t your thing, ordering a tasty takeaway could be the best option.
The entertainment
Despite all your prep in the kitchen, parties are not all about the food. So, what are you going to do besides eating?
If it’s a casual affair, you could suggest playing board games (avoid Monopoly unless you have several days and an umpire in riot gear), playing cards or doing a quiz. If your party is outside, why not have a game of rounders and get the whole family involved.
For something more formal and grown-up, serve after-dinner drinks and kick off an engaging conversation around hot topics. Avoid politics in favour of fun subjects . . . such as new homes, interior décor ideas and up-and-coming holidays. We’re sure you’ll have plenty to catch up on!
The playlist
Put the party in dinner party with cool music. For the opening hour when everyone is drinking cocktails and breaking the ice (and hopefully not your new lamps), choose upbeat tempos for a light and happy atmosphere. This playlist should mix and match genres to appeal to all tastes.
Depending on which direction the party takes, you may want to switch up the music. Choose some laid-back tunes if you’re looking for something more formal in the way of background music as to not overshadow conversation. But if it’s taking a disco swing then you might want to stick on some classic karaoke tunes. Let your guests know where the music is and let them feel free to switch it up themselves, introduce them to Alexa or your vinyl collection.
The ambience
Offering a tranquil space not only sets the mood for your entire dinner party but it reflects the quality of your dining space. Remember, this is your chance to let your new home shine so don’t be shy about showing it off.
Arrange your seating and the dining table so they are not an obstacle course but instead welcomes guests and leads them into the room. Folding chairs are your friends. They can be stored away when not in use but may come in handy later in the evening.
Remember you are showing off your new home and may want to take your guests on a little tour, but to avoid having your home feel crowded, move any large pieces of furniture around to give the feel of more space.
The scents
So long as they’re subtle and not overpowering, scented candles and fresh flowers will do the trick. Some scents, such as winter fruits, will even help build your guests’ appetite. If you’re scared of lighting candles with little ones around, opt for reed diffusers and plug-in fresheners instead. When things calm down later in the evening you can bring out your fancy candles then.
The being there
Finally, this is your day too and you want to spend as much time as possible with your guests. So, plan a menu that can be prepared in advance then heated just before serving and serve drinks that don’t take a lot of effort. That’s a big no-no to fresh mojitos every five minutes.
If you do end up in the kitchen, use it as an excuse to invite your guests in – this way you get help, enjoy the chat, and can show off your worktops.
Still looking for your perfect home to throw a housewarming party? Be our guest as we welcome you to the hottest properties to buy or rent on s1homes.