Easy entertaining. It may feel like those two words don’t belong in the same sentence, but it doesn’t have to be that way!
When I was growing up, having people over was a BIG DEAL! The house had to be spotless, the food had to be just right, and by the time the guests arrived, my poor mom was an exhausted nervous wreck. That kind of rubbed off on me a little bit, so I’ve struggled with even wanting to have people over, because it just felt like too much work. But I’m learning to take it easy, relax, and keep it simple. Yes, you want your guests to feel welcome, but everything doesn’t have to be perfect to accomplish that! Trust me, people are coming over because they want to have a fun time with you – not to inspect your house for dust bunnies!
The point of entertaining guests is to enjoy them. Whether it’s a big party for a special occasion, or a casual gathering with friends, make it as easy on yourself as possible, so you can relax and enjoy your guests. I’ve pulled together a few ideas that will encourage you to enjoy easy entertaining.
Make Your Guests Feel Welcome
People are most likely to remember how you made them FEEL. Not whether there was dust in the corners, or if the food didn’t turn out perfectly. Welcome them warmly. Get them involved with you in the kitchen, rather than sitting awkwardly in the living room while you race around like a crazy person. Make them feel comfortable, and a part of things. You can get into some great conversations while you’re working side by side in the kitchen.
What Are YOU Comfortable With?
If you’re not into throwing big, lavish dinner parties, then don’t do that! Some people love to do that sort of thing (not me!), and that’s great for them. However, if you feel more comfortable inviting one other couple over, or two or three friends if you’re single – then do that!
It Doesn’t Have to be Dinner!
Are you in a season of life where having people over for dinner feels like too much? Maybe you work full-time in a challenging job, or you have young children, or older children with a boatload of extra-curricular activities. You’d love to spend time with friends, but it seems overwhelming.
You don’t have to do a five-course dinner! You can do a potluck, or order take-out, or make a very simple meal (suggestions below). Or don’t do dinner at all! How about a movie night? All you have to provide is snacks and drinks. A board game night is a fun idea too. The main point is to connect with your friends or family. Enjoy their company, engage in conversation. Make memories that matter.
Easy Entertaining with Wine
Treat yourself and your guests to the best wine. Serve sparkling wine for a special occasion or holiday! Register here for access to Exclusive Fine Wines and you’ll always have amazing wines to serve. These are top-quality wines from Napa and Sonoma valleys, with a variety of red and white wines. Always have the right wine to go with any meal, any time.
While we’re on the subject of wine, check out these great wine bottle openers. Never again fight with a corkscrew, or have to deal with a broken cork! Talk about easy entertaining! (These also make great wedding gifts!)
Simple Meals for Easy Entertaining
One of my favorite simple meals is loaded baked potatoes. This is very easy, although you do need to allow plenty of time to bake the potatoes, therefore it’s not a last-minute meal. Along with the baked potatoes serve a variety of toppings: browned ground beef, grated cheese, butter and sour cream, crumbled bacon, green onions, sautéed onions, black olives, chopped broccoli. Any or all of these taste great!
Chili, cornbread, and salad makes a good simple meal. Likewise, soup and salad with warm bread and butter is tasty and simple.
Another fun idea is taco night. You can do the whole thing, or ask everyone to bring taco toppings for a potluck taco night. Easy, fun, and delicious!
If you serve a simple meal in a warm, friendly atmosphere with engaging conversation, your guests will be nourished in both body and soul. More than anything else, they will remember how welcome and comfortable they felt in your home.
More Easy Entertaining Ideas
Summer is a great time for a backyard or poolside barbecue. Keep it easy. You provide the meat and drinks, and have your guests bring a side dish or dessert.
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