How to host like a pro

Well, it really is the time of the year when families get together but also that dreaded time you find the words leaving your mouth “Come round to ours for something to eat” and as you say it you know unless you’re an old hand at the art of entertaining and totally set up for fine dining it’s going to take time and effort. Or does it? Thank fully our article about ‘How to host like a pro’ has just slipped in to save your sausage but I’m going to add a few of my own thoughts because once in my life I wrote a book called ‘How to Entertain With Style’ 

First of all, you are inviting people into your home so that’s where you begin and knowing you have people coming round is often the kick you need to check over a few things. Like, the overflowing coat rack you have in the hall surrounded my so many pairs of shoes you might as well nickname it Russell and Bromley! This area is not an extension of anyone’s wardrobe it’s for the coat or shoes you’re currently using. Then there’s the downstairs loo or whichever one your guests will use, while they are taking their comfort break do they really don’t want to be looking at your toothbrush, cleaning products, and other personal paraphernalia? Give it a good clean over and put-away.   

Next the kitchen so much easier to cook, serve and enjoy the process yourself when you have clear surfaces and if you are short on space move stuff you don’t need out to a garage, shed or bedroom basically anywhere where they are out of the way. 

Your fridge is going to be working a little harder so again have a clear out. When I lived in an apartment, I used to take items out of the fridge when entertaining in the winter and store them in a sealed plastic container on the balcony, a pal of mine puts hers in the boot of her car maintaining is cool and safe!

When people come round to your home it’s to see you so don’t make everything so complicated that you can’t sit down and equally enjoy their company. One-pot wonders and serving ‘family style’ always work. I present everyone with substantial nibbles but rarely serve a starter and as for dessert, it all needs to be made, in the fridge and ready to serve maybe a little heating up but nothing more. Unless you are great at cocktails keep the drinks simple and remember those who are driving. 

Now this is the biggie YOU – Everyone coming as they are not the ones entertaining will to have to some degree dressed up so don’t forget yourself. Know exactly what you are going to wear, have everything laid out. Roster into your master plan a glam up time and don’t forget to wear an apron they are all the rage and have saved my clothes on many occasions – Check out Dunelm they have some excellent ones for £10.00

Enjoy

Anthea X