We’ve put the holiday soirees behind us, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop entertaining in your home! Having a few close friends over to enjoy stinky cheese and good conversation is one of the highlights of adulthood. Here are a few numerical tips that can help you improve your party-throwing prowess.
• As a general rule, odd numbers are more visually appealing than even numbers. So opt for three cheeses (or five or seven). For a fun touch, label the cheeses with notecards or tiny chalk slates. Yummy cheese sidekicks include olives, figs, honey, and toasted nuts.
• How many cocktails do you need to offer at a gathering? While you may be tempted to offer a full bar (and that would certainly be gracious), try opting for one type of wine (red vs. white) or one signature cocktail. This will keep your palates less confused and make for easier bartending. And of course, it doesn’t hurt that it’s quite a bit cheaper than offering a dozen libations.
• Two hostesses (or hosts) are better than one. Even if you’re a single girl about town, have a good friend come early to provide back up for you. Your co-hostess can answer the door, take coats, and answer your cellphone while you greet guests, put the finishing flourish on that cheese plate, etc.
Need some help? Art of the Table, located on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, is a fun and mildly addictive store that houses everything you might need to put on a solid (and yummy) get-together. Cheese, charcuterie, wine, and beer—check it out!
Written by: Julie Anne has an impressive vocabulary and an extraordinary sense of humor. She has even entertained the idea of doing stand up comedy someday! When she's not writing, you'll probably find Julie Anne at the Farmer's Market or home with her nose in a book. Photo Credit: iLoveButter
