Whether you’re living in an apartment or dorm room, you can still host all of the holiday festivities — afterall, college is the time for socializing. With Friendsgiving and the other winter holidays quickly approaching, it’s about time to start sending out those invitations. While space constraints may seem daunting, a little creativity is all you need. Here are our five tried and true tips for hosting a big holiday party in a not-so-big space.
1. Use all the space you have. And we mean all of it.
While it may be traditional to host parties in communal spaces like dinings rooms and kitchens, those rules go out the window when it comes to college living. If you’re comfortable, take a couple extra minutes and clean your bedroom, and leave the door open so your guests can move around freely. Providing an extra space where guests can easily step away from the crowd (without having to let the host know) will make your party feel much less claustrophobic. Similarly, try to arrange your furniture to facilitate conversation. Your guests won’t be chatting if their backs are turned toward each other.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask people to pitch in.
When it comes to hosting, food is of the utmost importance, but sometimes you don’t have room in your kitchen to make a five course meal — and that’s okay! There is no shame in asking your guests to bring snacks, appetizers, and desserts. For themed gatherings, be sure to communicate with your guests what your expectations are. Are you just doing finger foods? Make it clear so no one shows up with spaghetti and meatballs.
If you prefer to cook all of the dishes yourself but don’t have the counterspace, prep some of the dishes at a friend’s house the night beforehand. Desserts, cocktails, and some appetizers will be just as delicious if you make them in advance, and you’ll be less stressed too.
3. Be selective.
As much as you love all of your friends, sometimes there’s just not enough space for everyone. Remember that you can always host another party later in the season for guests who couldn’t make it. Most importantly, don’t feel guilty for denying a plus one. While it’s an awkward conversation initially, it will save you the headache of trying to make room for an extra setting at the table, and maybe an unlikely friendship will form from your guests talking to new people!
4. Do a test run.
There’s nothing worse than setting up for an hour before your party only to realize there’s not enough room for your guests. If you’re hosting a dinner party, set out rough place settings a few days beforehand to make sure all attendees can fit at your table. For something more casual like a board game night or a movie night, get creative with your cozy spaces. Floor pillows and extra fuzzy blankets are always a good backup plan for spaces with limited seating. Be sure to have them readily available when guests arrive so they don’t feel awkward asking.
5. Think about temperature control.
While blasting the heat and cozying up alone may feel great during the winter time, a stifling hot party isn’t fun for anyone. Remember that the more guests you have and the smaller your space is, the warmer it will get. Have a game plan before the party even starts. Whether it be turning off the heat or running a fan, you should take some preemptive measures to cool down your apartment before guests start arriving. If you find that your space is still getting uncomfortably warm, don’t be afraid to crack a window and let in some fresh air — your guests will thank you for it.