I find that the hardest part of having people over is the set up and clean up. It takes a lot of energy and time, and let’s face facts- it is no fun! I want to be social and keep in touch with friends, but I do not want to pay for it the next day with exhaustion, pain and frustration and I do not want my house to be a total mess the next day. I have found a few items that have made some of my recent parties easier, and I am happy to pass them on to you! Although some of these items wouldn’t necessarily be items that you would buy all the time (either due to expenses, etc) I find that once in a while helpful items are so worth it!

1. Weiman Cleaning Products is a leading manufacturer of home care products and manufacturers a line of cleaning wipes, ideal for quick and easy cleanups around the home. Wipes make cleaning easier for people with disabilities because they eliminate the need for rags and heavy bottles of cleaning solution. I love that the plastic canisters are light and easy to use. I used them after my last party to clean my granite counter tops, and to clean the grimy cook top. It was so much easier to carry one item then the multitude of heavy cleaners. You might think how good is a cleaner that is a “wipe”? Well, these cleaners actually work and I found them not to have a strong scent which worked great for me.
2. Our friends at kimandjason.com have the cutest stuff! Whenever we are looking for fun items we check there, but who knew they would have helpful items too! The “Snap-A-Party” set includes everything you need at a party — knife, fork, spoon, plate, chopsticks, toothpick, even a napkin ring — all ready to snap-apart and put to use. This made setting the table so easy, because I actually didn’t have to set a table, I just handed these sets out and they worked great. Everyone had everything they needed and it was a bit of an “ice breaker” at the party to watch everyone snapping apart the kits. It was fun and it was so relaxing to know that right from the very start everyone had what they needed for the night!

They were a little bit expensive for a package of 4, but if you wanted to treat yourself to a fun and helpful item for your next party- this would be it. (PS- a portion of all purchases at kimandjason.com goes to charity, so start shopping!)
3. Forget those plain plastic utensils…. Diamond Signature Series disposable flatware brings an elegant look to the party with its brushed nickel finish. Signature Series has a similar shape and design to actual flatware, and is durable enough to cut through the heartiest of fares without bending or breaking. If you are having a nice dinner and you don’t want to do dishes, but plasticware is too casual, these are the perfect choice. Your table will look beautiful. You get the look of fancy flatware, and you can throw them right out when you are done. Why stress out over doing dishes? Relax after dinner and spend time with your guests. These are so nice – you might not want to throw them out! 24 pieces come in a set.
4. Don’t spend so much time cooking and preparing. There are so many pre-packaged dips, salsas and even main dishes that you just need to heat up, or add a few items to. When you use these prepared foods, you do not have to spend as much time in the kitchen and you can enjoy your guests and actually relax before hand, instead of making a mess, cooking, food shopping, or preparing. There are so many places you can purchase these types of items from your local grocery store, to online. One of our new favorites is from The Womens Bean Project. They are a nonprofit organization that teaches job readiness and life skills for entry-level jobs through employment in their gourmet food production business. Women come with the goal of transforming their lives and moving toward self sufficiency. It feels great to purchase from them and to help people at the same time. One of my favorites to put out for guests is the Southwest Blend Salsa Mix. This is so yummy and looks great on the table with bright yellow or blue tortilla chips.
These are just a few of my newest favorite “party helpers”. What is most important is seeing family and friends, and keeping in touch with those you love. If some of these items help you do that, then it is worth it! Do what you need to do to make yourself comfortable, whether you choose to order in, or bar b que; whether it is a few close friends or a whole party. At my last party, we hired a local woman to come and help with serving and setting up the food etc. It was great! I got to spend time with my family and friends and not worry so much about the kitchen. You need to do what is right for you, your budget and your style. Most of all have fun!
Review written by: Christine Miserandino © 2008, butyoudontlooksick.com