list of household chores when preparing for dinner guests

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list of household chores when preparing for dinner guests

Jun, 19 Holidays/Occasions, Home Management, Meal Planning

Having friends over for dinner is a fun way to socialize. It allows you to prepare something extra special and to have a more intimate evening with people that you love or would love to know better. For many people, having guests over seems an overwhelming prospect. The myriad of things to think about such as cleaning the house, preparing the menu, and cooking the food prevent some from enjoying the experience of being a host to friends. Breaking the tasks down makes them much more manageable. Above all, relax – don’t panic. Your friends are coming to spend time with you, not to judge you. They will probably not notice dust or an unswept rug. Here is a list of things you should likely focus on before guests arrive for dinner.

list of household chores when preparing for dinner guests | ListPlanIt.com

Plan the menu for your dinner party. Be thorough. Don’t forget appetizers or drinks. 1 to 3 days ahead of time, if possible
Clean your kitchen/dining room floor. 1 to 3 days ahead of time, if possible
Clean the bathrooms that guests might use. 1 to 3 days ahead of time, if possible
Dust. This is the perfect task to delegate to a family member. 1 to 3 days ahead of time, if possible
Search your windows/sliding glass door for smudge marks/finger prints and clean. 1 to 3 days ahead of time, if possible
Vacuum floors, especially in the areas where guests will be. the day of
Thoroughly clean kitchen and dining area. the day of

How often do you entertain guests? What is your favorite tip for preparing your home for friends?

3 responses to “list of household chores when preparing for dinner guests”

Kelli Miller says:
June 21, 2009 at 12:28 am
:-) Favorite tip? Set up tables outside and have a barbeque. :-) Have hubby cut the grass and you are set for some quick entertainment without having to scrub down the house ;-)
Kelli – 3 Boys & a Dog: homeschooling, recipes, reviews, giveaways, Fave Friday & more!
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Marci@OvercomingBusy says:
June 19, 2009 at 11:06 am
Great list! I used to think that everything had to be done on the day of. That made for a long, exhausting day. By the time the guests arrived, I would be wiped out! This is a great outline of how to get the house ready and pace yourself.
We like to have friends over once a week or so, especially in the summer. Being able to eat and chat outside take the pressure off having a spotless house.
.-= Marci@OvercomingBusy´s last blog .. =-.
Julie Bavington says:
June 19, 2009 at 9:25 am
I’m a big believer in planning and making lists. After the lists are made, there is another important thing to do…
Delegate, delegate, delegate!
My 4-year old can pick up his own toys, help me put things away (or at least take them to the proper room), and sort of dust.
My husband is a great cook – especially at the grill. This gets some of the “mess” of cooking, the heat (and usually the menfolk) outside.
Most of my friends enjoy bringing a simple salad, side, or dessert to a gathering. Instead of declining, I am excited about it! It often gives my family an opportunity to try new things, and it lets our friends feel like they are a part of the party and not just a guest.
~J