The start of a new season means one thing: perfect party weather! Whether it’s sunshine and summer cocktails, crisp fall nights by the fire, or cozy winter gatherings, it’s the perfect excuse to unleash your inner party planner.

But let’s be real, parties can be stressful (trust me, I know!). The key? Less work, more fun. So here are my go-to tips for throwing a fabulous, stress-free party. Because you deserve to feel like the ‘hostess with the mostest’ instead of exhausted.

Party-Planning Tips

• Create a “Butler’s Pantry” – Make a dedicated shelf or storage rack for party essentials. Trays, ice buckets, napkins, tablecloths, acrylic glassware. Have this butler’s pantry in your basement or garage. Not only does it keep you more organized, but it also frees up space inside. It all stays in one place and out of the way. Instant organization = instant hostess win!!
• Have an Outdoor Party Stash – Keep your beach chairs, foldable picnic tables, umbrellas, cushions, and coolers all in one spot. I even keep beach towels in a tub near right next to my butler’s pantry. Who wants to look in a linen closet in the dead of winter and see beach towels?
• Cocktails by the Door – Greet guests with a drink as soon as they walk in! Make sure you have a spot to put these. A small tablet or cabinet. Dress it up to match the mood! As the party winds down, swap it out with party favors (bonus points if they’re my wine glasses). When favors go out, it’s time for guests to make their way out!

• Make a Batch Cocktail – Saves time and keeps the drinks flowing! I love sangria (check out my fave recipe). What really helps is to keep a few ingredients handy at all times, like champagne and canned fruit juices, coconut juice, simple syrup, lime juice etc.
• Keep Ice in the Freezer – Always. You never know when you’ll need it, and I use it up before it gets in my way every time.
• Embrace Food Shortcuts – Market-made apps and desserts? Yes, please!! Or, have guests bring a dish or a charcuterie tray. This is where any hostess spends the bulk of her time, which is why most hostesses are exhausted before guests arrive. Just focus on a great cocktail setup! Because let’s be honest, hearing that cocktail shaker makes everyone forget the appetizers came from the store.

• Label Your Dishes – Use post-it notes to label your dishes with what goes in each and have serving spoons/forks out. No trying to remember why you grabbed those two bowls. No last-minute scrambling!
• Get the Music Ready – Have your Spotify playlist set before guests arrive. The right vibe makes all the difference!
• Contain Pets & Kids – If little ones are coming, hire a babysitter and set up a mocktail station just for them. It gives your guests a break to enjoy the party and offers something fun for the kiddos to enjoy. Give your pet a safe space. Even if they love guests, this is not the time to risk a runaway pup!

• A Spot for Bags & Jackets – Ensure you have a dedicated spot. This keeps clutter out of the way and makes it easy for guests to grab their things when they head out.
• Extra Trash Cans = Less Mess – No one wants to hunt for a trash bin. Set a few around for easy cleanup!
• Start Cleaning Up at End Time – Always set an end time! When it comes, gently start tidying by gathering used glasses. It helps guests get the hint without being pushy.
• Pour Yourself a Glass Before Guests Arrive – My last but BIGGEST tip. Because YOU deserve to enjoy your own party!

I hope these little tricks help make hosting way easier for you. Even if you only pick up one or two! Now, pour yourself a glass of wine, enjoy your party, and let’s toast to making memories, not stress!

Cheers!

XOXO, Lolita