Congratulations! While it probably wasn't your reason to buy your new home, it's only natural you want to show it off to your friends and family. 

A housewarming party is a perfect way to showcase your new home, but this can be a daunting task if you've never done it before.

Don't worry, though! We've got you covered with these helpful tips and advice.

Planning Is Everything

It may seem obvious to say a good housewarming party needs to be planned ahead of time, but many people think of it as a casual drop-in event with a few snacks and drinks.

You can set out a few bowls of nuts and platters of fruit, but if you want to create a memorable event to share your pride in your new home, respect the process and do some proper planning first.

• Get out a piece of paper and a pen and answer these questions:
• Whom will you be inviting?
• How many people do you think will actually show up?
• Is this an afternoon party or an evening event?
• How far in advance do you need to invite people?
• Do you want to create a theme for your party?
• Are you serving dinner or just snacks?
• Will you invite your (new) neighbours as well?

Regardless of your answers, keep in mind your party is going to leave an impression on your neighbours whether you invited them or not. The last thing you want to do is get off on the wrong foot with the community by hosting a party that runs late and/or involves a lot of loud music. Remember to be a good neighbour.

Send Out Invitations

Sure, you can always send a boring old email, but you can have more fun getting creative with a well-crafted invitation.

For extra oomph, you can spend some money and send out printed invitations, but whatever you send out be sure to include:

• A "respond by" date.
• Your home's physical address (and a link to it on Google Maps is always appreciated).
• Your phone number.
• A brief description of what type of party it will be (casual, formal, etc.)
• Some indication of how to dress.

If you think it's appropriate, include some guidance on what kind of housewarming gifts you'd like. Your guests will appreciate the ideas and you'll appreciate the RSVPs as you'll be better able to prepare for a confirmed number of guests. 

Prepare Your Bathroom

Your guests are definitely going to visit your bathroom at some point, so make sure it's stocked up with:

• plenty of toilet paper on hand
• clean hand towels that are easy to find
• air freshener
• hand soap

As your party progresses, periodically check on the condition of the bathroom to re-stock any needed supplies and/or clean up if necessary.

Bonus tip: be sure to put away any prescription medications before your guests arrive.

Set Up Sufficient Seating

People will wander around during the party, but arranging the seating is crucial. Place chairs and sofas around a central focus point (like a table) wherever possible. If you don't have enough chairs, consider using benches, beanbags, or cushions/pillows on the floor to provide additional seating.

Keep in mind that guests might sit where you don't expect them to, so ensure any fragile or sensitive areas are blocked off.

Protect Your Electronics

Guests engaged in lively conversation at your party might inadvertently set down their drinks on or near your sensitive electronic items like televisions and stereos. 

If you don't plan on using the TV, it's a good idea to put it away somewhere out of sight. For items you'll be using, like the stereo, make sure to cover the surface with a towel or block it off with furniture to prevent people from accidentally spilling their drinks on it.

Put Away Breakables and Valuables

Remember that anything of interest in your home might be picked up or handled by guests as they explore your new living space. Whether it's your expensive internet tablet or an antique vase, put away everything that could potentially be broken.

Arrange the Refreshments

Unless you're hosting a formal sit-down dinner, guests are going to move around as your party progresses, and the natural focal point will be where the food and drinks are arranged. Make sure everything is laid out ahead of time, including plates, silverware, cups, and napkins in a place where people can easily find it.

If your party is big enough and you've got the space, consider setting up multiple locations for your refreshments such as drinks in one area and food in another.

Make the Right First Impression

You're justifiably proud of your new home so make sure that it creates the right first impression. Prepare beforehand, paying particular attention to the first things guests notice in your home.

Before guests arrive:

• have plenty of hooks/hangars free for coats and outerwear
• have a place to store hats and umbrellas
• provide a chair or bench in the foyer if you want guests to remove their shoes
• make sure your home has a pleasant odour but not an overwhelming scent of candles, incense, or air freshener
• ensure that your artwork, photos, and other items on the walls are straight and well presented
• put away toys, shoes, coats, and other clutter
• turn on multiple lamps/lights to create a warm ambience
  

Music & Entertainment

It's practically impossible to have a great party without music. Craft a playlist or rely on your favourite streaming service, but make your music decisions ahead of time. Some guests will want to make requests and/or take over the DJ duties, so make your decisions on what you'll permit ahead of time so that everyone is clear on the "ground rules."

You should also pre-plan some games and activities for your guests to participate in. While everyone will surely be interested in seeing your new home, that won't last all evening, and you'll be glad you're prepared to entertain.

With a little planning, you can relax during the party and have a great time with friends and family as you proudly show off your new digs. Just be sure to get ready well in advance with invitations, food, music, and everything laid out for your guests to relax and enjoy themselves, too.

Photo credits: party, ladies, friends