Settling into Your Space

Part of the fun of moving into a new apartment is showing it off. After you've unpacked and gotten organized, invite your friends - and maybe some new neighbors - over. We make planning your get-together simple:

Atmosphere

- Choose decorations and tableware that reflect your personality and lifestyle.
- Consider mixing styles, for example, having a casual barbeque with candles and a linen tablecloth.
- Simmer a mixture of red wine, whole cloves, and a cinnamon stick to give your new home a warm, inviting aroma.
- Have some fun with the lighting. For example, cluster floating candles in a bowls to add interest.
- Consider placing flowers and greenery in non-traditional containers as a conversation piece.

Food

- For a beautiful presentation, combine foods of contrasting colors, textures, and temperatures. 
- Try something different; visit your local market for a unique wine, cheese, or antipasto. 
- Boil hotdogs in beer or stuff hamburgers with mozzarella and oregano for a change of pace. 
- Choose a menu that won't keep you in the kitchen.

Guest

- If you have a small apartment, consider several intimate parties rather than a large open house. 
- Include a variety of personalities with a good mix of listeners and talkers. 
- Make sure your invitation includes the date, time, and type of party, address, and a way for invitees to R.S.V.P. 
- Pick a well-known landmark or list the streets of a nearby intersection as a point of reference for directions.