The Exotic Teapot

I just finished remodeling my home and would like to invite my friends and family over. I guess this would be an Open House. I have never been to one of these events before but have heard of them. Should I serve cocktails, appetizers…? Am I to send invitations, if so how long should the Open House last? What will my guests be expecting?

Yes to the cocktails, appetizers and invitations. Most of your guests will bring a small gift for you to add to your home decorations. Should you wish no gifts, you will need to put that on the invitations. Usually open houses last 3-4 hours, permitting your guests to come and go as they please. The more cocktails, appetizers and party ambience, the longer they will stay.

An Open House Party is held to introduce people to your comfortable, relaxing home in hopes that they will want to visit you again without a formal invitation. Therefore, you are to be the perfect host, greeting each at the door, not staying in the kitchen. Each room should be decorated with lit candles, fresh flowers, potpourri or some gentle fragrance and if possible soft background music. I suggest light hors d'ouvres, wine, tea and coffee served in buffet style so that you have plenty of time to mingle.