Hosting a party can be both exhilarating and stressful. I love the ritual of getting ready for a fun event but pampering myself after a party is also important. I consider it a reward for a job well done. Here are a few tips I try to incorporate both before and after I host an event.
Relax: I try to finish all the details of my event the day before so the day of I can relax. I do this by treating myself to a hot bath with my favorite bath bombs. Then I curl up in a cozy chair and read a book. This ritual will help prepare you for a wonderful evening.
Clothes: When choosing my attire, I make sure to wear clothes that fit the theme but are easy to move around in. I also make sure they are not revealing as I am bending over a hot stove or picking things up off the ground. A hostess dress or pantsuit should be about function and form.
Perfume: I have a signature perfume I love to wear. Go lightly on this, though, so your scent does not overpower the food.
Eat: Rarely does a hostess have time to eat during her party. I recommend being ready an hour before guests arrive to take care of last-minute details, then sit down, relax, and grab a bite to eat.
After the party: This is the hostess’s time to celebrate a job well done. I enjoy pulling leftover food from the party and curling up on the couch with my husband as we talk about the evening. We share stories and all the fun things we learned.
The day after: I schedule what I call Pajama Days. I don’t like wasting time, but if I schedule on my calendar that a certain day is a Pajama Day, then it is not wasted, right? Reward yourself the day after your big event by wrapping up in a warm robe and taking a little “me” time.
I must admit, the above schedule I try to keep does not always work out exactly like I plan. During the years we had a child in the house, life was sometimes a little crazier. This is just a season of life, and one you will want to cherish. Take each day as it comes and celebrate the life you currently have. Seasons come and go, and we need to rejoice in every moment.
Together with you,
Lisa Lou