Seven tips to hosting a stress-free holiday party
ERIE, Pa., Dec. 20, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether you're planning a multi-course meal or just a small get-together with friends, it takes time and effort to throw a party. Whatever the size of your shindig, Erie Insurance has seven tips to help with your holiday gathering.
- Plan the menu. If you plan on having others bring a dish to share, ask around the time you invite them. That way your guests have plenty of notice to shop and cook. As for your grocery list: Do an initial shop two weeks out and save one last trip for fresh items (like produce or cheese) a few days prior. From traditional to potluck, you'll want to make sure you have enough food and beverages for your holiday guests. If you're serving alcoholic beverages, keep in mind your host liquor liability.
- Schedule your oven. It's a good idea to have your temperature and cooking/baking times handy, so you don't have to look up recipes at the last minute. As you get busy, make sure to keep a watchful eye on your stove and oven. December is a common month for home fires.
- Consider the kids. If you know kids are coming, it's good to have a few activities or age-appropriate toys to keep them busy. You might even want to queue up a family-friendly movie.
- Space out your cleaning tasks. Instead of rushing around an hour before guests arrive, do a little bit each day on the week leading up to your event. Maybe it's dusting on Monday, clearing the clutter Tuesday, bathrooms Wednesday, changing towels and setting up the drink station on Thursday and doing a final sweep on the Friday before your party.
- Give a warm welcome. It might be obvious, but make sure to greet your guests as close to the time of their arrival as possible. Sometimes you might not be at the door when they walk in, but make sure you welcome them – especially if they are new guests to your home. Also, it's polite to share where a close bathroom is so they don't need to ask.
- Provide a coat check. Designate an area for coats and/or purses. You could clear out space in your closet or designate a guest bedroom to place coats.
- Don't forget the finishing touches. Lighting candles, turning on your party playlist and making sure the ice bucket is filled are all things that can be done right before guests arrive. Also, make sure there is enough toilet paper in the bathroom and the hand soap and towels are freshly stocked.
While you're in party-planning mode, don't forget to check your homeowners insurance to ensure you're covered in case of the unexpected. If you have questions, you can always contact an Erie Insurance agent to learn more and get a free quote. For more holiday must-have advice, check out our guide to hazard-free holidays.
Erie Insurance Group
According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 9th largest homeowners insurer and 11th largest automobile insurer in the United States based on direct premiums written and the 16th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on total lines net premium written. The Group, rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, has more than 5 million policies in force and operates in 12 states and the District of Columbia. Erie Insurance Group is a FORTUNE 500 company.
News releases and more information about Erie Insurance Group are available at www.erieinsurance.com.
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