Open House Party
An open house party is the most casual party of them all. It’s a good, low-stress way to celebrate casual holidays, meet new neighbors, or celebrate a new home.
The Invitation:
-Since this party is so casual, invitations can be extended over the phone, or written on regular note cards/paper, or on ‘fill-in-the-blank’ invites you can purchase at your local craft or discount store.
The Decoration:
-Little decoration is required for this type of party. Small groupings of flowers and candles around the entire home will make guests feel at ease.
-If you have a fireplace, place candles of varying heights inside to create a focal point.
Tip: Use same or like-scented candles in every room to create a uniform feel and avoid conflicting and unpleasant scents
The Activity:
-If this is the first time many of your guests will be coming to your home, be prepared to give tours.
-Play light, upbeat music in the background to put your guests at ease and encourage conversation.
-If this is a housewarming party and you’ve received gifts from all of your guests open them while they’re all there. If you only received gifts from a few guests, open after the party, but be sure to send a thank you note promptly.
The Food:
-This type of party can focus on any style food you wish. You could throw a dessert party, or an appetizer/ cocktail party. All styles should be served buffet style to allow you maximum time with your guests.
-Be sure to have enough food already prepared/prepped to easily put out more if you run low. This keeps you out of the kitchen during the party as well as keeping your guests happy.
Stuffed Mushrooms:
Makes 32 caps
32 Mushroom caps
2 c. melted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2c . Shredded mozzarella cheese
8 tbsp chicken broth
4 t. soy sauce
1 1/3 c. thin wheat crackers, crushed in small pieces
4 t. dried parsley
Pre-set oven to broil. Dip mushroom caps in butter, and arrange on a lightly greased baking sheet. Combine remaining ingredients, except for cracker crumbs and stir well. Blend in crumbs and spoon into mushrooms. Broil 5 minutes or until tops are golden.
Green Olive Cheese Puffs
8 dozen puffs
16 oz shredded cheddar cheese
1c softened butter
2 c. all-purpose flour
2 7-oz. Jars of green olives (with pimento), drained.
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Combine cheese and butter in food processor: blend until smooth. Place in mixing bowl with flour and mix well. Roll out to ¼ inch thickness. Cut into 2” squares. Wrap each around an olive, making sure to seal the seams. Arrange on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden.