Moving into a new home is an exciting time, and once all the unpacking is out of the way and you’re settled in, you’ll no doubt wish to share your stylishly decorated new abode with your friends and family by way of a lavish housewarming party.
It’s time to celebrate your new home and the new phase in your life with your nearest and dearest, and get to know your new neighbours too, and if you’re the type of person who likes to go all out when it comes time to party, then you’ll likely be hoping to put together a celebration that will be legendary.
If your brain is frazzled from the effort of moving and redecorating and you’re looking for a helping hand, then read on for our seven-step guide to hosting the grandest and most unforgettable housewarming party yet.
1. Theme and decorations
Anyone who has thrown a party or two in their lifetime will know that a good theme to tie the celebration together is the best way to ensure that the celebrations are a success for all who come. Some ideas to add to your shortlist could include a traditional garden party, fun at the fair, a casino night, a theme around a particular colour scheme or perhaps around the current season.
When you’ve decided on a theme, this will inform you on what decorations you need to buy, what your entertainment will be centred around and what food and drinks will work best. Flowers, string lights and candles are always staple items to add to the list and help to tie in any look. Talking about lighting, get inspired with lighting ideas for indoor parties, and choose from a range of styles to make the atmosphere just perfect. From hanging pendant festoon lights to curtain lights to a galaxy light projector, you can really set the scene with your choice of lighting.
2. Invites
Once you’ve decided on a theme and set the date for your housewarming party, it’s time to finalise the guest list. Closest family, friends and new neighbours should make it to the shortlist but decide if this is to be a family event or adults only. Let people know the theme and dress code, directions to your new home if needed and the date and time, of course. And don’t just send out an e-invite, as a paper alternative with easy ways to RSVP are more likely to be responded to, and will be made even more special if handed out in person.
3. Put on a show
When it comes to wowing your guests – you’re going for grand and unforgettable here, remember? – putting on some memorable entertainment is a good way to keep them busy and keep them talking about this day for years to come.
Nothing screams luxury more than setting off your own dazzling fireworks display, just remember to do it safely. Chorltonfireworks.com, a firework shop in Manchester, advises all firework users to follow the law and abide by legal curfews, which is 7am to 11pm on most nights (excluding holidays). If you buy fireworks for personal use and set them off on your private property, you’ll be able to awe your friends and neighbours with the show, but keep in mind that you have a duty of care to ensure the safety of your visitors if you have your own fireworks display.
4. Make the most of your house and garden
While your guests are here to check out your new set up, it may be the case that you don’t want too many people traipsing in and around your shiny new home and making a mess.
A great way to combine the two is to host an open house and garden party. Give friends a tour as they would at an open house viewing and then head outside to enjoy some drinks in the sun followed by food, games, and that impressive fireworks display.
5. Fill your guests up with fine foods and delightful drinks
Any celebration calls for champagne and cocktails, so make sure to hire a professional cocktail maker who can whip up whatever your guests desire and get in a few bottles (or crates) of your favourite sparkling wine to toast your new home with. Set up a long table in your garden or pop smaller tables around and serve up some tasty treats – or better yet, hire a caterer who can do the hard work and use their expertise to create some dishes that your guests will no doubt devour.
6. Play housewarming games
As well as ensuring there’s a constant stream of good music to listen to, make sure there are a selection of games to keep everyone amused between chatting, eating and drinking. Carnival games are a fun way to pass the time (tie games in with your overall theme), while asking your friends to unleash their creativity and design a room using paint samples, material swatches and magazine clippings could give you some inspiration for some of those undecorated rooms.
7. Hand out party favours
Any good party results in something to remember the event by, so make sure guests leave with something in hand as a way of thanking them for stopping by. Whether it’s a few homemade brownies or cookies, some photos you’ve taken from the day with an instant camera, a beautifully scented candle, or personalised glass, they will love the thoughtful touch and your party will likely be difficult to top.
