be the perfect host/ess | ||
copyright
©1999-2000 |
Secrets of the Spontaneous Host | 1 2 Ever notice how, in any given circle of friends, there’s always one person whose home becomes unofficially designated as the default hang-out? Ever longed to make your home that favorite gathering spot, the sort of cozy, comfy, fun-facilitating place where friends feel welcome to spontaneously stop by, semi- or completely unannounced? The first step, then, is to get yourself prepared … 1 Stock no-prep snacks in the pantryNo one will expect you to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh-baked cookies or elaborate hors-d’oeuvres (although if you’re so inclined, it certainly wouldn’t hurt). Cheap munchies that require no or minimal preparation, tend to keep well, and are almost universally appreciated, include: tortilla chips and salsa assorted nuts pretzels ice cream/sorbet Keep a couple of these items on hand and you’ll never have problems feeding surprise guests. 2 Have an array of beverage optionsWater is a fine, thirst-quenching beverage, but let’s face it, not terribly conducive to fun. Having juices, soda, beer and, for extra brownie points, a decently stocked bar, will inch you one step closer to becoming everyone’s favorite host/ess. 3 Keep your hang-out space presentableNo one likes lounging on a sofa surrounded by week-old pizza boxes and dirty socks. No need to go insane with the feather duster (as if any of us actually owned one anyway) – excessive meticulousness is off-putting; the occasional quick vacuum/sweep will suffice. Keep magazines and newspapers confined to a single space, bring dirty dishes and glassware to the kitchen sink, empty your recycling and trash bins regularly. Fight the chaos; keep your living space in some semblance of order and cleanliness. ---------------------------> lounge . nourish . host . laze . home .
|