Welcome to the latest edition of Come herenewsletter from Food52 Editor-in-Chief Julie Vadnal, all about hosting meetings big and small, while staying calm. Do you have company? Sign up here to receive your emails.
When I started inviting people in their 20s, my biggest fear was always: Will there be enough food? As a result, I prepared so many dishes that I didn’t have time to shower, and guests arrived to a house filled with too many appetizers and an exhausted, cranky host. Since then, I’ve learned that as a host, you set the tone. The better prepared you are, the more relaxed everyone will be, including yourself.
No one is looking at the stain on your carpet or the crooked art on your walls. Vacuum the floors, make the bed, and clean the bathroom; then turn off the ceilings. Candlelight, even LEDs, makes everything (and everyone) look better.
You don’t want to be stuck in front of the stove during your own party, trust me. For a dinner party, make a meal that you can throw together in the oven when friends come over – slow-roasted salmon with salad is one of my favorites. For a cocktail party, a giant grazing board can be a complete dinner.
Photo by Bobbi Lin
Then you’re halfway through the croquembouche assembly (true story; I don’t recommend it) when you realize it’s 30 minutes until the guests arrive and you haven’t showered yet. Set an alarm an hour and a half before the start time to prepare. And prepare the dessert a day in advance.
Your favorite desserts to prepare in advance
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Tell everyone to bring wine, but ask a friend to bring ice. My friend Matt is so used to me texting him before the holidays that he now shows up with a bag of ice, without me asking.
I’m not saying you should create a separate menu for each person who comes, but offering NA drinks and vegetarian sides will make people feel welcome.
Our 38 Best Mocktails to Drink Full of Flavor and Without the Alcohol
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Photo by James Ransom
It’s 10 pm and the party continues, but you wish everyone would leave. Here’s what you say: “Anyone want a last cup of coffee or drink?” If that doesn’t work, do what I do: fall asleep on the couch. You get some sleep and your guests quickly get the hint.
What’s your best tip for dealing with pre-party stress? I’d love to hear from you in the comments.
