By Aryne + Dulcinea, November 25, 2019
With the holidays fast approaching, we’re also entering peak party-hosting season. If you’re one of the many Portlanders living in an apartment or small home, you might find yourself feeling limited by your space. With some creativity and forethought, you too can master the art of throwing big parties in small spaces.
TIP #1: Make the Menu Work for You
Living in a smaller home means you likely have limited kitchen space. To keep your big night on-track, be sure to have your menu planned well in advance. In doing so, try to create dishes that don’t need to be served immediately. Plan on preparing your sides ahead of time instead. This will allow you enough time to clean up the dishes before your guests arrive, which will reduce clutter in your space and expedite the after-party sweep.
TIP #2: Don’t be Afraid to Rearrange
If you’re feeling restricted by your home’s layout, get creative. For instance, if your living room is more spacious than your dining area, temporarily rearrange your set up in the living space to better accommodate your guests. You can also remove larger pieces of furniture, storing them in out of the way for the evening. It’s only temporary, afterall!
TIP #3: Set up a Self-Serve Station
Another space-optimizing strategy is to have a buffet-style layout. This approach will streamline set up and frees up additional space on your table.
TIP #4: Get Eclectic!
If you’re throwing your first-ever dinner party, you might not own the appropriate amount of furniture to accommodate a large group. This is far from a deal-breaker. Coordinate with a guest or neighbor about borrowing some chairs or folding tables for the evening. You can lean into this eclectic theme, tying everything together with whimsical decorations and a tablecloth.
TIP #5: Focus on the Cozy
There are so many great reasons to live in small spaces, including the homey feeling they provide. Use this to your advantage when planning your party! Some ways to accomplish this including opting for a combination of candles, lamps and string lights instead of overhead lights. Additionally, a fresh bouquet of flowers will fill your space with an enticing aroma.
Are there barriers in your home that prevent you from living up to your hosting aspirations? To get advice, or to learn more about the art of throwing big parties in small spaces, drop us a line!
About Us:
Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.
Aryne + Dulcinea
Earth Advantage Principal Broker | Earth Advantage Broker | ADU Specialists | OR
She/Her
Aryne + Dulcinea are full-service, high-producing agents, who understand how to navigate the unique challenges facing the Portland real estate market. The secret to their success is in their professionalism and complementary skill sets. In 2012, Aryne + Dulcinea saw an opportunity to combine their creative and technical wisdom to create a values-driven, full-service agency unlike any other. Expert negotiators and project management mavens with a strong background in creative marketing, Aryne + Dulcinea serve as fierce advocates for their clients. Their passion for real estate relates closely to their commitment to the Portland way of life, which entails a dedication to sustainability and appreciation for all things local. As Earth Advantage Brokers and ADU Certified Specialists, Aryne + Dulcinea are savvy in all aspects of alternative living practices—from versatile housing additions, green building practices, and revenue-generating strategies. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching you real estate goals.
Aryne greets working with clients throughout Portland with open arms. Licensed since 2005, she appreciates the ever shifting desires her clients have as they move through their real estate goals. Investigative genius on her side, Aryne will strive to bring you the results you desire. When not working for you, Aryne is a constant cheerleader for her son and daughter’s pursuits on the basketball court and on the ballet stage! She practices yoga, hikes, loves to walk and explore Portland neighborhoods, reads, and delights in soaking up everything Portland has to offer!
Dulcinea thrives on working with clients with a range of real estate goals. Oregon born, with a design and an award-winning professional background, Dulcinea is steadfast when it comes to working for her clients and has a keen eye for properties that best serve client objectives. Licensed since 2013, Dulcinea works in and around Portland. A mother of two and wife to her high school sweetie—in her free time she stays busy with her family, travel, community activism, exploring the outdoors, curating art shows, and dreaming big!
Click here to get to know Aryne + Dulcinea!- T: 503-380-5124
- F: 503-961-8224
- aryne@livingroomre.com
