How To: Host Parties in a Small Space - Your Guide to Memorable Gatherings
This post contains affiliate links and ads. Affiliate links and ads support my work at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your ongoing support!It seems that in today’s fast-paced & social media centric world, hosting gatherings at home has become less and less common, especially for those of us with small spaces. I’ve heard from many of you that the thought of entertaining guests in your home is quite simply overwhelming and that there is a fear that limited square footage, and anything less than a Pinterest Perfect home will lead to a less than ideal experience.
I’m here to tell you that it is time to set those fears aside! You can create community, strengthen friendships and have some much deserved FUN while hosting memorable gatherings your guests will appreciate. With a little creativity, your home can become the perfect backdrop for delightful get-togethers, just as it is today.
If you avoid hosting gatherings because you are:
Afraid others will judge your home because it is “small” or dated
Afraid others will think less of you because your home is not Pinterest Perfect
Feel embarrassed that your guests will feel cramped in limited square footage
Feel overwhelmed when it comes to organizing a thoughtful gathering in a small space
Unsure of how to execute a memorable event on a budget
Know that you are not alone! There has been a shift away from home-hosted gatherings and the reasons listed above are a big reason why. But why are we depriving ourselves of much needed connection, community and IRL FUN? The world in front of you is where your attention should be, not what someone, somewhere else, is showing on social media.
In fact, I want to challenge you to host a gathering in your home this year. No matter what your home looks like or what size it is, try using some of these thoughtful tips and creative tricks and invite over a few friends. I guarantee your guests will appreciate your effort and you might just be the one to help bring back a sense of companionship to your community.
The charm in hosting at home lies in the unique, personal touches that only you can provide! Start by using these simple tips to maximize your space and create a lively atmosphere your guests will enjoy.
5 Tips to Maximize Space for Your Gathering:
EMBRACE MULTI-USE FURNITURE: In a smaller space, it’s important to choose furniture that serves multiple purposes. A coffee table can hold welcome drinks and appetizers, ottomans can provide extra seating for guests as well as storage for blankets and games. A bookshelf can act as a bar cart, a stovetop cover can create extra counter space and a light dimmer can quickly adjust the atmosphere.
STORE EXTRA FURNITURE: Consider removing extra pieces of furniture or decor that you won’t need to temporarily create more space. Temporarily remove your own coats from the coat rack or front closet to create space for your guest’s belongings. Clear coffee and side tables so there is more room for food and drinks. Conversely, store folding chairs and tables that can be brought out when needed.
USE WHAT YOU HAVE: There’s no need to buy new or extra things when it comes to hosting - simply start with what you have, take note of what you could need, and slowly build a thoughtful hosting kit as needed. Dinner plates can be used as appetizer platters, mix and match glassware, and a few clippings from the garden paired with your signature playlist can create a special, inviting atmosphere for any gathering.
SERVE DRINKS & APPETIZERS: There’s no need to commit to a multi-course meal to impress your guests. Instead, opt for a variety of appetizers (store bought is fine!), and batch or bottled cocktails, beer, wine and n/a options. This requires less space and allows guests to mingle more freely. A charcuterie board, sliders, chili bar or make-your-own taco bar can also be fun and interactive options.
CREATE ZONES: It seems that no matter the size of a home, everyone tends to gravitate to the kitchen. Typically, this is because it’s where guests will find the food, the drinks and the host! To help avoid a crowded kitchen, create zones and draw your guests to where you want them by taking the food and drinks out of the kitchen and, instead, serve them where you want your guests. Consider how you can best utilize your space and designate different areas for activities such as games, conversations and dining. This helps guests move around and keeps the atmosphere lively.
Now that you know how to create an inviting atmosphere using what you already have along with a few simple tricks to maximize your space, let’s talk about how to be a warm and confident host! The reason I love modern etiquette so much is because it gives us the tools and guidelines to help us feel confident in how we approach different social situations. Being a host can feel overwhelming, but the important thing to know is YOU’VE GOT THIS. These etiquette tips are here to help you feel confident so that you can be a gracious host your guests will appreciate.
CREATE AN INVITATION: The invitation can be a simple text or Evite, but the point is that it should communicate important information about the gathering, including the day, start & end time, theme and dress code (if any!). An invitation should set the tone of the event while communicating the details. It will also help you, as the host, to know who is coming. This is a great time to ask about any special dietary needs your guests might have so you can plan accordingly. An invitation also makes it special — it gives your guests something to look forward to and get excited about.
SET THE MOOD: Lighting can completely transform a space. Use soft lighting or candles to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. In a small space, consider adding a dimmer to existing lighting or switch out lightbulbs for a softer glow. If using candles, opt for a soft fragrance like vanilla or if candles aren’t an option, try battery operated candles for the look without the worry. Utilize a bluetooth speaker to play music from your phone and bring your own energy to create a lively space.
WELCOME GUESTS: Greet each guest as they arrive, take their coats and introduce them to others. This simple gesture sets the tone for a friendly gathering. If you’re hosting alone, have a few appetizers set out along with pre-poured or bottled drinks for guests to help themselves to as they get settled.
BE ATTENTIVE: Keep an eye on food and drink levels, and be ready to refill glasses or offer more snacks. Be sure to enjoy the food and drinks yourself, too. Guests will often take the lead from the host, so if you want them to enjoy the food, drinks and activities, make sure you are also participating! A good hostess makes sure everyone feels taken care of and is participating in the conversation and fun of the evening.
ENCOURAGE INTERACTION: Don’t be afraid of using a friendly ice breaker or group activity to help others get to know each other. Prepare a few conversation starters, and think about how you can connect your guests before they arrive.
KNOW HOW and WHEN TO END THE PARTY: A good party will have a clear beginning and end. Two to three hours is typically plenty of time for a gathering and having a specified end time will help keep the party moving. When it’s time for the party to come to an end, you can give your guests the hint by ending food and drink service and turning up the lights. As your guests leave, be sure to thank them for coming.
What’s next? It’s time for you to take these tips and host your own gathering! Whether it’s a game night for four or a drinks party for twelve, you now have the tools to host a memorable gathering in your home. Still not sure where to start?
Here are a few fun ideas you can use:
GAME NIGHT: Bring out board games, card games, or even video games for night filled with laughter and competition. Keep snacks and drinks simple but with a theme. Locally made sodas & snacks, wine & popcorn bar or mocktails and meat kabobs are all fun and simple options you can try.
DIY CRAFT NIGHT: Choose a shared hobby or introduce your friends to a new one. Whether it’s watercolor painting, knitting, calligraphy or wreath making, invite your friends over for an evening of connection and crafting. Offer sparkling wine (include a n/a option!) and hot appetizers.
TAILGATE with a TWIST: Don’t limit the spirit of a good tailgate to football season. You can have a watch party for any sport! Choose a sport your guests enjoy - maybe it is football, but maybe it’s competitive ice dancing, curling or Premier League football (soccer). Coordinate drinks and appetizers with the sport or country of the featured athletes and ask guests to dress accordingly!
TEA PARTY: Simple sandwiches, scones, hot tea and an invitation to sit back and relax, catch up on what’s going on in each others lives and trade recommendations for the best new novels.
INVITE AN EXPERT: Invite a local expert to share their expertise on a topic. Perhaps a local sommelier can guide your guests through a wine tasting, or a local baker can teach tips for decorating cookies.
No matter the size of your home, you have the power to create unforgettable gathering. By maximizing your space, being a thoughtful hostess, and embracing creativity in your events, you can open your heart and home to friends and family.
Let go of the pressure to create the “perfect” party and remember that the best memories are often made in the coziest of spaces. So go ahead, invite your friends over, and celebrate the joy of connection — one small gathering at a time!
Did you find these tips helpful? What’s the next gathering you will host? Still have questions or need some encouragement? Leave a comment below, I’d love to help you out!
