Hosting a dinner party, game night or general get-together for the first time can feel intimidating to any student.
My main concerns are usually making sure there is enough to eat and drink, and that the party does not feel dull. Although my parents have taught me a thing or two about entertaining, I still struggle when working with a limited budget while hosting my friends.
However, after more experience with hosting, I feel confident enough to share a guide students can use for their next party in preparation for upcoming events like the Academy Awards, Little 500 and more.
Food and drink
Food and drink are one of the most important aspects of any party. In my experience, people come hungry and excited to see what the host has to offer. Breaking bread with friends and family is one of humanity’s oldest traditions, so it is crucial that the food is delicious, affordable and plentiful.
To start off, be mindful of guests’ dietary restrictions. Offer a mix of vegan, vegetarian and meat options, and double-check ingredient labels when needed.
When shopping, Aldi is usually my first pick due to price and quality. For specific name brand items, I’ve found that Walmart typically has lower prices, while stores like Kroger and Target tend to be more expensive. To make shopping easier, I recommend making a list of what you need, choosing one store and checking their website to confirm everything is in stock.
When feeding a group, it is better to have extra food in case guests arrive extra hungry or more people show up than expected. If you are unsure how much to prepare, a quick Google search or AI estimate can help.
You can also keep hosting simple by choosing prepared foods, especially if you are new to cooking. If you do choose to cook, just be sure to leave enough time before guests arrive.
For themed events, try to serve food that matches the occasion. And for general gatherings, stick to crowd favorites like pizza or a taco bar, and keep water, sodas and alcoholic beverages available if you are of legal age.
Decorations
When it comes to decorations, a little can go a long way.
Shopping through Amazon or Walmart makes it easy to find affordable options. Table covers add a pop of color while simplifying cleanup, and centerpieces, whether Oscar statues, football-themed pieces or IU decorations, help personalize the event. For a creative and affordable option, you can even make a banner with poster paper and Sharpies for an extra customized touch.
Activities/Games
If you are not hosting an event with a specific activity tied to it, like watching the Oscars or something similar, it is best to have a few games on hand for guests to enjoy. The following are some of my favorites: a standard deck of cards, Uno, Mafia, Imposter Party Word Game and Pictionary.
Ending on a strong note
For the end of your party, have a plan for leftovers and a way to thank your guests. Keep foil or Ziploc bags on hand and save only what you will eat within a week while sending the rest home with guests. The next day, follow up with a short thank-you text. It is a simple gesture that makes people feel appreciated and leaves a lasting impression.
Cleanup
A few small steps can make cleanup quick and easy. Politely ask guests to throw away their used plates and cups, then finish the rest once they leave. For larger events, I recommend buying cleaning supplies in bulk.
Keep plenty of trash bags on hand during and after your party, and make sure they are large enough to handle the mess. It is also helpful to have a mop and surface wipes ready, since floors and counters tend to get sticky.
Put it into practice with the Academy Awards
The Oscars are coming up on March 15. If you are hosting a watch party, here are some ideas I would incorporate into your event.
For food and drink, I would serve a cheese, cracker and fruit board as an appetizer for a touch of elegance, fitting for the Oscars. Pizza works well for the main course because it is easy and offers enough variety to please most guests. For dessert, brownies or cookies with ice cream are always a safe choice. Of course, champagne and sparkling cider, for those over 21, are perfect for celebrating the winners.
For decorations, I recommend making a banner that says something like “Welcome to the Oscars.” You could also purchase inexpensive replica Oscar statues and gold table covers. Before the show, encourage guests to make predictions for each category, then keep a small gift, like a gift card or candy, on hand to award the person who guesses the most winners.
There you have it – these are just some of the ways I have elevated my hosting based on my experience as both a host and a guest. Do what works best for you, and most importantly, don’t stress.
