The arrival of spring provides many reasons to celebrate, and there’s no better way than entertaining at home with family and friends. Creating a memorable event doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, and doesn’t have to be a lot of work. With just a little advance planning, you will be able to relax and have fun – and if you’re having fun, your guests will too.
Budget – Keep a handle on your budget by keeping it small. Being part of an intimate gathering will make your guests feel quite special, and provide lots of opportunities for making real connections. Best of all, it won’t break the bank.
Food – Pick a menu that uses items that are in season and on sale. Incorporate steamed asparagus or a baby spinach salad into your weekend brunch; buy a spiral-sliced ham while they’re on sale and use it in everything from make-ahead breakfast casseroles to delicate finger sandwiches for a Mother-Daughter tea party; slice a pound cake or angel food cake, serve with fresh sliced strawberries, chocolate sauce and whipped cream, and you’ve got a main course for your next dessert party that can be prepared in just minutes.
Decorations – Flowers are the obvious choice for bringing life and color into a room during this season. Take a few daffodil stems or lilac cuttings and place them in a vase for an instant centerpiece. Or, pick up a flat of perennials from your local home supply or discount store and place them around the room in inexpensive clay pots – for extra color, wrap the pot with a ribbon or raffia bow (and don’t forget to transplant them to your flower garden when the party’s over!).
Activities –if your event includes kids, you might consider having some dollar-store items at the ready for some fun outdoor play – bubbles, Frisbees, jump ropes, bouncy balls, etc. Otherwise, your only planned activity should be to spend a couple of hours enjoying good food and great conversation with the people you love.
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