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Welcome to the latest edition of Come On Over, Food52 editorial director Julie Vadnal’s newsletter that’s all about hosting gatherings big and small—without losing your cool. Got company? Sign up here for her emails.
When I first starting having people over in my 20s, my biggest fear was always: Will there be enough food? As a result, I’d make so many dishes that I wouldn’t have time to shower, and guests would arrive to a home filled with entirely too many appetizers—and a frazzled, cranky host. Since then, I’ve learned that, as the person hosting, you set the tone. The better prepared you are, the more relaxed everyone will be, including yourself.
No one is staring at the stain on your rug, or the askew art on your walls. Vacuum the floors, make your bed, and wipe down the bathroom—then turn off the overheads. Candlelight, even the LED kind, just makes everything (and everyone) look better.
You do not want to be stuck at the stovetop during your own party, trust me. For a dinner party, make a meal you can pop in the oven when friends arrive: slow-roasted salmon with a salad is a favorite of mine. For a cocktail party, one giant grazing board can be a full dinner.
Photo by Bobbi Lin
So you’re mid-croquembouche assembly (true story; don’t recommend) when you realize it’s 30 minutes until guests arrive—and you still haven’t showered. Set an alarm for an hour-and-a-half before start time to get ready. And make dessert a day ahead.
Tell everyone to bring wine, but ask one friend to bring ice instead. My friend Matt is so used to me texting him before parties that now he just shows up with a bag of ice, unprompted.
I’m not saying you need to make a separate menu for every person coming, but offering NA drinks and veggie sides will make people feel welcome.
Photo by James Ransom
It’s 10 p.m. and the party’s still going—but you wish everyone would leave. Here’s what you say: “Would anyone like one last cup of coffee/drink?” If that doesn’t work, do what I do: Doze off on the sofa. You get some sleep, and your guests get the hint, fast.
What’s your best advice for dealing with pre-party stress? I’d love to hear from you in the comments.