How to Plan a Housewarming Party
Inviting your friends over to show off your new home doubles the fun of moving. It has, for quite some time, been a trend in our society to plan a housewarming party after moving in to a new house or apartment.
“Housewarming”
Ever wondered where that word came from? Well, it makes its way into modern times, right from the Middle Ages. At that time, it was customary to invite all those who contributed to the construction and the work of the house. The dinner was cooked in a large pot suspended above the fire. In England, the event got its name “Housewarming” because the tradition was that each guest would bring a piece of wood to start the first fire in the fireplace of the new house. Interesting, isn’t it?
The Housewarming Buffet Table
At your own housewarming party, your main task on hand will be to show people your house. Serving food to each individual is not what you will want to do at that time. A buffet feeds a lot of people and makes your job easier. All you need to do is set up the buffet table and the guests will help themselves. Instead of a table, you can allot an entire area in your home as the dining/cocktails area. This will also help the guests to discover your new home better.
Ideas for the Buffet Menu
Savory
Various canapés
Savory cakes
Raw vegetable Crudites and cheese sauce or cocktail sauce
Salads
Charcuterie plate
A cheese platter
Various Rolls
Sweet
Cakes, cupcakes or pies
Fruit skewers
Bowl of candy
Choose cold dishes to avoid spending too much time in the kitchen. You can also ask each guest to bring a dish each and fill up your buffet table with them. Sangria and punch make for easy drinks for a housewarming party. Plan for people who do not drink alcohol by stocking up on soft drinks and fruit juices.
Decor and Ambiance
Your guests have come to discover your new apartment or home! Create a warm and friendly atmosphere for them. Play some good lounge music and use good lighting which is neither too dim, nor too harsh. The lighting should be enough for your guests to be able to appreciate your home.
Games and Activities
You can choose fun games that guests can get involved in and make the atmosphere cheerful. Tests and quizzes about the things and features in your new home are always a hit and help guests to discover your house. Karaoke is a fun activity loved by guests of all ages. If you are going to have children at the party, you could plan a treasure hunt for them within the house. A treasure hunt is another way of helping guests get acquainted with your new home.
