5 TIPS FOR THE RELUCTANT SUMMER PARTY HOST
How to throw a get-together in your backyard that’s simple and stress-free
Many people love to go to parties but hate to give them, and that’s too bad — there’s something that’s satisfying about feeding your friends and hearing them laugh in your own backyard. Maybe the reluctant hosts think throwing a party is too much work or their grilling skills are lacking. Whatever the reason, don’t let it hold you back from hosting this summer.
1. Do as much ahead as you can.
Much of the stress from hosting has to do with having many tasks to do all at once. “With any party planning, you want to set yourself up in the most organized way,” says Jason Mitchell Kahn, who owns an event planning company that bears his name in New York City. He suggests making a chronological checklist of everything you need to do — buy groceries, prep food and bar, set-up tables. 2. Plan a manageable guest list.
Invite just a few friends over rather than a big crowd. As you gain confidence and feel comfortable in your role as host, you can gradually increase the number of guests you invite. Remember you’re not aiming to be a restaurateur — just a great party host.
3. Simplify the menu.
When it’s hot outside, serve foods that are uncomplicated, easy to eat, and quick to prepare like grilled burgers (which cook in 6 to 10 minutes), corn on the cob (10 minutes), potato salad (25 minutes), garden salad (15 minutes), watermelon slices (5 minutes), and ice cream pops (store-bought).
4. Stop thinking you need the skill set of a celebrity chef.
If you’re making burgers, for example, ensure they come out perfectly by timing them. “You don’t have to rely on your natural instincts,” says Kahn. For medium-rare cheeseburgers, set a timer for three minutes, flip the burgers, and reset the timer for another three minutes. But if you want to skip cooking altogether, go for it, and purchase all or most of the food items at stores.
5. Ask friends for help.
“If you’re having a lot of people coming over and you don’t have hired help, ask friends for assistance,” says Kahn. “They can cut garnishes, ice the drinks bucket, open bottles.” If any live nearby, they could pop over earlier to help. “If you’re setting up additional tables and chairs, do it the night before,” says Kahn. That way, there’ll be more time to enjoy the party!