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How to Plan a Smashing Last-Minute House Party

These hacks will ensure you’ll pull off the most amazing bash with least amount of planning.

Shraddha Varma

If you love socialising but are always worried about the dent in your wallet, the solution is simple—house party! Planning an impressive end-moment party isn’t a cakewalk. But, thankfully, we have ideas that are quick and simple to execute.  

Read on to find out how to put together a successful get-together at home in a short time (and without breaking a sweat).   

Make a list, check it twice 

Santa Claus does it and so should you! Make a list of things that absolutely need to be cleaned or replaced for your end-moment party. It should not just include bigger things such as the décor and food but also, small chores such as ensuring the bathroom is guest-ready, the garbage bin has a fresh bag, the cutlery and dinnerware is washed, the refrigerator is stocked up with enough ice and water for everyone, and so on. Oh, and most importantly, reserving some time for getting yourself ready for the event.  

Reconnaissance mode 

While ‘the more’ maybe ‘the merrier’ but it all depends on your home. Be realistic about the number of people your home can accommodate, understand how many people can fit in comfortably and if you need to create extra seating. This recce will also give you an idea about which space needs sprucing up, where can you set the food and drinks, and where and how can you decorate the house to make it look party-ready.  

Invitations 

Since it is a last-minute party, elaborate save-the-dates and printed invites are best skipped. Put social media to good use: Create a group (if there isn’t one already) and send out a message, Facebook and WhatsApp have become a go-to for such purposes. Keep the message to-the-point and simple, no need to alliterate with fancy verses. In a worst case scenario, don’t hesitate to call a couple of your close friends and ask them to invite others on your behalf.  

Plan the menu 

Keeping the bar and buffet well stocked is important. But don't beccome a MIA host. Make a list of dishes/drinks you are going to prepare and check what you’ve already got in your pantry. The rest can be ordered from a local store, an online grocery store, or just order in via a food delivery app. 

Like we said earlier, don’t hesitate to call for help – ask a friend to pick up some dessert on his/her way or munchies/dips/beverages to begin the party with. Now, these are just a few pointers, for more tips and tricks, check out this full-fledged menu planning guide!  

Set the mood 

Since you don’t have much time to decorate, take out some family heirloom pieces and strategically place them in different parts of your house. Or brighten up the space with some festive décor (hello, fairy lights!) You can even place flowers or light a bunch of scented candles around the house – just to add a classy touch. 

As far as the music is concerned, there are plenty of apps in the market with playlists for every mood. All you need to do is, search for a few that you think your guests will like and bookmark. You can also rent a karaoke machine and pull out the dust-ridden board games? These activities may not just add to the fun, but also ensure your guests and you bond better.  

The most important… 

We understand you want to put your best foot forward; however, we’d suggest don’t stress about getting even minutest details perfect. The party was planned for you to make memories with your loved ones, so be sure to do that and thank them for showing up.   

Photo: Shutterstock