So you’ve just moved into your new home - congratulations!

Now that you’ve unpacked the last box (or close enough), you’re probably eager to throw a housewarming party to show off your new pad to friends and family.

But where do you start? And how do you ensure the housewarming party is memorable - and for the right reasons?

5 factors to consider when planning a housewarming

1. Indoors or Outdoors?

Decide whether you want guests mingling within your indoor living areas or hanging out in the backyard. How much space do you have available? How many people do you intend to invite?

• Indoor party - If you have a small backyard (or none at all), an indoor party is your best option. You can shuffle tables and couches around to ensure there’s plenty of space for sitting and standing. If you’re expecting children, we recommend moving breakable items out of sight or reach.

• Outdoor party - If you have a large (or decent-sized) backyard, you might prefer to keep everyone outside. This opens up your entertainment options, but may result in additional effort when it comes to decorations and lighting (if you choose to do an evening event).

2. Seating

Depending on numbers and space available, you may need to purchase, rent, or borrow additional chairs. They could be plastic or fold-up ones. But there’s also nothing wrong with taking kitchen stools and dining rooms chairs outside!

If you’re having a backyard party, you could also throw a couple of rugs on the lawn in true picnic-style.

3. Food

You can’t have a great party without food! When sending out invitations, it’s important to indicate whether you plan to serve lunch or just morning or afternoon tea. Then the expectations are set.

Even if it’s lunch or a dinner party, you’ll still want to put out a spread of appetisers before the main meal is ready. Nobody wants hungry guests! Make sure there are various drinks as well - and remember to organise the ice and ice bucket.

4. Decorations

If you’re hosting an indoor party, decorations can usually be kept to a minimum. Adding balloons, a few streamers, and some flowers in vases might be all you need.

On the other hand, an outdoor party might require a bit more pizazz to create the atmosphere you desire. We suggest adding lanterns to trees, banners along fencing and walls and decorative table arrangements. You can gain further inspiration from Pinterest and Instagram.

5. Music and Entertainment

Having upbeat music for your housewarming is vital - as it sets the mood for the event. Just make sure it’s not too loud. Otherwise, guests will find themselves yelling at the people right next to them!

You don’t need to buy or borrow expensive sound equipment either. An iPod dock or home speakers will usually do the trick.

If kids are invited, you’ll need to offer some form of entertainment. This could include a jumping castle or sprinkler (if you have a big backyard), bubble wands or colouring-in stations. For a large number of kids, you might consider hiring an entertainer - so the adults can completely relax while exploring your new home!

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