As long as the second party is more casual, then yes, I'd do it. Most of the prep will be done for the first party. Just count on relaxing the next weekend!

The way you described it, I think you can certainly handle things back to back.
Go for it!

From the way you describe both events and your preparation, I'd say go for it. Your house will be well-prepared and it sounds like you will mostly have to touch up things between parties and prepare the drinks and your appetizers. Any glasses and serving pieces will already be out and ready and you should have the remainder of the first day and most of the 2nd to prepare.

Great way to use up leftovers!

Absolutely, I would do it!

I would and I have.

Think of it this way, only one big cleaning before the party. decorations (including fresh flowers/arrangements stay the same). When you wash the dishes and serving pieces from the first party, no need to store them away. Leftovers from first party can be replated and served at the 2nd party.

Have fun enjoy your guests!

ML

Definitely! More efficient than 2 parties a week apart or so.

Personally I wouldn't have the energy for two without massive amounts of help (someone to clean, again! unload the dishwasher, do dishes, cook-again!, etc) but otherwise, sure.

Yes! I've done it before, it makes sense to not put all the entertaining stuff away and drag back out. I've had a couple big parties before and then invited close friends later to help with leftovers.

I'm having a big family party this weekend and am kind of bummed the flowers won't last till I host Thanksgiving.

I read an article once that if you need or want to entertain different groups it makes sense to do it the same weekend. House is clean, entertaining stuff is out, one grocery trip, maybe one big prep session, etc. Try it.....then you'll at least know if you'd do it again or no way.

Duplicate post

This post was edited by joaniepoanie on Wed, Nov 5, 14 at 23:02

Yes, I'd do it, and have done it on many occasions for large groups and small, but I had lots of help for the former. One especially nice aspect of entertaining this way is that you can spend for really great floral arrangements and feel like you're getting your money's worth!

Great! You've confirmed my thoughts. Thanks so much for helping me decide. Having the second party late in the afternoon will mean I can enjoy my morning coffee , recoup and not feel rushed. Yes, kswl, love enjoying fresh flowers another day.! I once had a valentine tea. A neighbor- guest was admiring all the red tulips and roses...... .she was hosting her church group's valentine party the following day. I " loaned" her my arrangements and we carted them down to her house at the end of my party. Perfect!
Thanks all, I will report back .
Marti

Yes. In fact I used to do the kids end of school yr swim parties three groups of 25 in a row. And for more formal parties, it's a great way to leverage decor. If you can , hire a set of hands .... Even a HS kid

Yes, it seems do-able based on the house will already be set up. And when can we expect our invitation, LOL?

Yes, I have and I would. Like others have said, everything will be prepared for the first party so only touch-up for the second. Love an appetizer party!

Oh gsciencechick, how i wish. Wouldn't that be a hoot!!!
More confirmation...yay. And yes to extra hands!

Though I don't entertain too often, I'd do this since the second one you are not responsible for all the food.

Don't be chicken, do it. Enjoy the spiked punch.

Last year I did a soup swap on Saturday and did a family belated Christmas party on Sunday. I thought it was great as I only had to do extra cleaning/dusting once for 2 parties.

This post was edited by debrak2008 on Fri, Nov 7, 14 at 7:30

My MIL (in her 80's!) does this on a regular basis since it is easier to do party prep just once. Both are casual and potluck, with one being coworkers and one neighbors.