1. Make your space work double- or triple-time

When is a sink not “just” a sink? When it can double as an ice chest for drinks or chilled appetizers! As you plan your party, map out the main areas where guests will congregate, and consider how you can maximize your space. That coffee table could be a second dining table, especially if you pull it out and surround it with pillows. The stairs that lead to your (off-limits) second floor could be an easy location for plates, utensils and cups. Bonus tip: label drink cups with your guests’ names in advance—and maybe include a fun fact to break the ice of meeting new people.

2. Go for a streamlined party space

If you’re starting out with a small space, keep extraneous décor to a minimum—think one or two large statement-making pops of color, and that’s it. Fussy, bulky streamers or even balloons can make your space seem smaller than it should. And if you really want to go streamlined, identify the few rooms your guests will be in, and move everything out of those rooms you can, temporarily storing the extra items in your bedroom, closet, or other out-of-the-way area. Opening up the space a little and rearranging your furniture for the most party-friendly flow will make a huge difference!

3. Make the most of your ceiling and walls

If you are looking to spruce up your living space to create a party atmosphere, keep an eye on areas that are out of common foot traffic. Fairy lights hung across the ceiling, temporary wallpaper or wall decals, or even balloons hung high above your guests’ heads can create a festive air without blocking anyone’s movement.

4. Maximize your menu

Rather than choosing a fussy menu with lots of separate parts, or stocking your fridge with a multitude of beers or liquor mixers, consider creating “signature” meal and a couple of drink combinations specifically for your party. One or two large carafes filled with a fun, fruity concoction (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) will satisfy a crowd without overloading your refrigerator. And easy-to eat, hand-friendly menu items like fruit kabobs, roll-ups, veggie tartlets, or mini stuffed peppers will keep your guests well fed while helping you ensure your space stays neat and tidy.

5. Set up your refreshments strategically

Who says everything needs to be served in the kitchen? By splitting up your food stations and creating refreshment locations in unexpected places—on a coffee table, a cleared bookshelf, or even on the balcony—you can encourage guests to mix and mingle as they graze their way through the party. Bonus tip: invest in a few tiered trays and risers to present food with vertical access points, and fill these with brightly colored food items to draw the eye and add to the festivity!

Throwing the perfect party doesn’t require acres of space and a huge budget. With a resourceful attitude and a few tweaks to the menu, décor, and the layout of your space, you will deliver a fantastic party experience for you and your guests!

The post How to host a big get-together in a small space appeared first on BRG Apartments Blog.

Clean, organize and clear out your space!

If you know in advance that guests will be coming, use their visit as an excuse to clean your apartment thoroughly and get rid of anything you know you don’t need. The less you have in the apartment, the more space you’ll have to move around when guests arrive. Go all out: toss the junk mail, wipe down all surfaces, vacuum the floor and shake out the curtains. Merely having a little less “stuff” in your space will make you feel lighter and better prepared to take on a guest—and you’ll be able to introduce your home to others in the best condition possible.

Also, take a moment to clear space for the guest. A drawer in a chest near their bed, an extra chair for them to use as a makeshift luggage rack, empty hangers in a closet, and even designated space in the bathroom can really create a homey touch.

Invest in an air mattress

If you don’t already have a sleeper sofa or futon, invest in an air mattress that quickly inflates and deflates to provide your guest with a comfortable night’s rest that doesn’t require much space. Today’s air mattresses can be set up and taken down in no time, allowing you to whisk away the bedding into your room or a closet until it’s needed again. You’ll also want to set up the air mattress in an ideal location. If it’s in your main living space, consider snugging it up against a wall, near a light and electrical outlet. Nearly everyone has electronic devices to charge overnight, so having a charging station near the bed will be very much appreciated!

Stock up on bathroom necessities

One of the more whimsical but fun aspects of staying at a hotel is the little tray of sample-sized bath products waiting for you in the bathroom. Why not replicate this idea for your guests? For just a few dollars, this welcoming gesture is long on charm and short on cost—and will save you a last-minute run to the drug store for toothpaste or shampoo.

Stock up on easy-to-eat snacks, drinks and breakfast foods

While you’ll likely be eating most of your shared meals out, especially if your guest is only on hand for a few days or if you have a whole apartment full of guests, it’s a great idea to stock up on energy bars, snack chips, bagels and cream cheese, six-packs of soda or juice and bottled water to have some easy-access food on hand for your guest, particularly something that won’t spoil right away or take up too much space.

Hosting overnight guests can be a fantastic way for you to shake up your routine, reconnect with friends, and share your favorite neighborhood haunts with new people—and it gives you an excuse to deep clean your apartment! With just a little planning, you can make sure it’s an easy and fun experience for all.

The post Come on over! How to host guests in a small apartment appeared first on BRG Apartments Blog.