So you wanna be Martha Stewart, huh? You’ve finally gotten your first apartment and you want to throw a housewarming party or just invite some friends over for dinner, but now you’re struck with the realization that you have no clue what you’re doing.
1. Breathe.
And I don’t mean gasp for air or manically breathe into a paper bag. Sit down. Don’t let the panic overwhelm you. There’s a lot on your to-do list, but you’re going to get it done. And if you don’t get everything done, that’s okay because if you’ve planned correctly, you have things prioritized or you have a backup plan.
2. Know what you’re making.
I’ve honestly been throwing parties and dinner parties since early in my high school career, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned the hard way, it’s “know what you’re making.” That means several things. Have a set list of what you’re making. Make sure you know how to make everything. Don’t stress yourself out the night of the party. Try making the recipe in advance so you know if something doesn’t work.
3. Make sure your list is actually doable
Can you honestly make the food you are planning to make in the time that you have? Can you honestly afford all of the ingredients? Do you have the time and resources to get them? Do you have all of the appliances needed to make this food? Ask yourself these questions. If the answer is yes to all, go for it.
4. Ask for help
I know. I know. You’ve finally accepted that you are an adult—a lone wolf, really. You’re facing the big, bad world on your own and you know you can take it. But what if you can’t? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ask a friend who you trust to keep you calm even when you’re at your wits’ end. Pick someone who can help cook or clean or prep the space. Pick someone who will hold you if something unexpected happens.
5. If something unexpected happens, just keep moving forward
Get back on that horse. Keep cooking. Make adjustments as you go to make up for the problem. Did you run out of sage? No problem. What other herb would go well with that sauce. Yes. Basil. Absolutely. Keep going.
As daunting as this all may seem, you’ve got this under control. You are the master of your own kitchen. You are the god of hosting. There’s nothing you can’t handle. Now go forth and plan. Happy adulating!
