Though every host imagines throwing a party in a large, open space, many people don't have access to a spacious venue. That doesn't mean that a party in a small space will be any less enjoyable, but you will need to be creative and resourceful when planning your celebration. By taking care of just a few details, your party can be a memorable success no matter how small your space is. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Keep your guest list small. Though you may want to have a huge celebration, your guests will only be uncomfortable and unable to have a good time if you cram a ton of them into a small space. For instance, if you have a 900-square-foot apartment, a guest list of 15 people is doable, but 25 people would be too much.
2. Choose a theme that does not require a lot of decorations, which can make a small space look even more closed in. Appropriate themes for a small party include casino night, black and white and luau. If you prefer, skip having a theme altogether and just make sure your space looks attractive and clean.
3. Use the furniture and amenities that you have to display food and decor instead of putting out extra tables. For example, if all you have in your party space is a bar counter, but no table and chairs, put a simple linen cloth over the counter and place the food and drinks on it.
4. Plan a menu of foods that can be eaten without having to sit down or use utensils so you won't have to find chairs and table space for all your guests. Try dishes such as stuffed mushroom caps, shrimp cocktail, chips and dips or salsa, miniature sandwich wraps, sliders, fruit kabobs and petits fours.
5. Prepare all food at least 30 minutes before guests arrive. Having the oven or stove on in a small space filled with guests can create too much heat and make guests uncomfortable.
6. Move large furniture to the edges of the room to create more space, or remove it from the room, if possible. For example, if your party will be in the living room and you have a sofa, coffee table and chaise in there, put the coffee table into your bedroom and push the seating toward the wall.
7. Open up the room to the outdoors if you have a patio, balcony or deck to add extra space for guests to eat, socialize and dance.
8. Burn a scented candle for the duration of the party to prevent any odors caused by the food or sweaty guests to become too obvious. Pick a refreshing scent for your candle, such as ozone, citrus or beach, instead of a a heavy fragrance such as lavender or vanilla. Place the candle where it can't be easily be knocked over, such as high on a bookshelf or on top of your refrigerator, if the kitchen and party room are connected.
Tags: small space, your party, coffee table, guest list, your guests