8 Things to Never Do Before Hosting a Party, According to Planning Pros

Planning Without Purpose

Intentional hosting makes for a memorable gathering. Mariah Hilton Wood, co-founder of Tilden Cocktails and frequent host, encourages you to name specific goals and purposes for throwing your bash. “Perhaps it’s introducing two friend groups, giving your parents a break from hosting, or celebrating your first time keeping a houseplant alive for a year. Whatever it is, have a purpose and build your gathering around it.”

Procrastinating Party Prep

"The most important thing to never do as host is wait until the last minute,” says lifestyle expert and award-winning fashion designer Peter Som. “Nobody likes arriving at a party with the host frantically running around trying to get everything done," he says, noting that hungry guests should be fed promptly and on time. "We’ve all been to those dinner parties, haven't we?” 

Dismissing Make-Ahead Meals

Don't discount the benefits of make-ahead meals and dishes. Getting as much done as possible in advance of the event will help you host a timely and organized gathering. “Have apps that are on trays in the fridge ready to go, or on sheet pans ready to get warmed in the oven," says Som. "Prepare as much of your meal as possible ahead of time so things need to either be reheated or they’re made partially and only need to be seared off.”

Being an Absent Host

"I like to enjoy my own parties,” says Hilton Wood. “The best way to do that is trim any tasks that have to be done during the event. A ready-to-pour drink option can be set on the bar cart or table, ensuring you’re focused on your guests and not occupied with mixing and measuring.”

This also goes for substances as well: An inebriated host can’t be as attentive as a sober one, so be sure to eat before your event and pace consumption if you choose to imbibe.

Serving an Off-Limits Menu

A bit of consideration goes a long way to ensure that everyone gets to enjoy all aspects of the evening. “Ask before the event for dietary restrictions." says Hilton Wood. "If you’re creating signature cocktails for the evening, offer a non-alcoholic option that feels just as thoughtful and elevated.” Everyone will feel seen and loved, he adds.

Ignoring the Itinerary

“I find that people overthink the stuff of a gathering—the décor, food, etc.,—and under think the interactions of a gathering. Worse, some hosts don’t like to impose on their guests,” says Hilton Wood. “In truth, guests want an experience. Take charge of a key moment, like a toast, piñata, lighting the baked Alaska on fire, or an annual eggnog drinking contest. Creating a shared experience will bring everyone at the gathering together and refresh the conversation.”

Forgetting the First Impression

“The bookends of your party are critical,” says Hilton Wood. Welcome each guest with a bite, drink, or ice breaker, like the opportunity to write in a guest book, snap a photo with an instant camera, or meet someone you’ve been eager to introduce. Have a plan in place so guests know what to do when they arrive: Should they gather in the kitchen, living room, or patio? Is there anything you want or need help with? 

... Or the Final Act

Similarly, you’ll also want to properly end things on a nice note. "A friend of mine would wrap up her parties by saying, 'Thank you for coming, friends. Please don't leave without a hug,'" recalls Hilton Wood. “It signaled the party was over, giving guests permission to leave when they felt ready, and it offered so much warmth and love. Beginnings and endings set the tone for the party and imprint a memory.” You can simply thank everyone for coming and suggest they take home leftovers or share photos the next day.