I've hosted my share of birthday parties at Ampersand Bakehouse. We rent out the main café for first birthdays, princess parties and tween pizza parties after the escape room across the street. Some of these events are attended mostly by children, while others (like first birthdays) are mostly adults. No matter who is attending, there are five things that I always double check before the party begins. 

Related: Book Your Party at Ampersand 

1. Space for Guest Coats

We've all been to the house party where you can barely get in the door because of the pile of shoes (or winter boots). Taking time to clear the area by the front door and add extra storage if needed. You're already at the party, so remove all of your outerwear (not your guest's coats) to a room that won't be in use. This way your guests know where their coat is and won't have to find you just to get their lip chap.

2. Clean Bathroom

At some point, all of your guests will likely need to use the washroom. (Depending how far your guests are traveling, this might be the first room they look for.) Make sure everything has been cleaned and tuck away any of your day-to-day items. Speaking of personal items, remove your shower towel so guest know exactly where they should dry their hands. Due to the nature of the bathroom, add a small visible garbage for any menstruating friends and light a candle to mask bathroom-related scents. 

3. Background Music

I love the use of background music at the Ampersand Bakehouse. Just like a coffee shop, the playlist can set the tone for the party. Spotify has a number of playlists to choose from or curate one yourself to match the theme of the party. The best part? No awkward silences. 

4. Snacks, Snacks, Snacks

Kitchen parties happen for a reason, everyone ends up congregating around the food. Make this work to your advantage by placing it where you want the party to happen. Have a big kitchen? Set it up on the kitchen table. Want the party in the living room? Set the food out on the coffee table. Unless you want to spend your party explaining the food, it's best to write it out little labels and include any dietary considerations. Be sure to add a little water station as well. This could be a pitcher of water, glass beverage dispenser or even water bottles to keep your guests hydrated. 

5. Garbage and Recycling

You likely have awesome friends, and they're going to want to do their part to keep things tidy. If your garbage can is tucked away, pull it out for the party so people can easily throw things away. If you have specific bins for recycling, but sure to add a sign so you don't have to sort garbage at the end of the night.