Choose a Theme
A theme turns a simple gathering with friends into a buzzworthy event, and there are countless fun choices. Binge-watching horror movies? Break out some of your Halloween decor. If you’re showing a foreign film, make snacks and drinks from the movie’s country of origin. Recreate the feel of old Hollywood glamour with iconic cocktails served from a vintage bar cart. Your theme doesn’t have to be elaborate. To create a laid-back vibe, simply host a pajama party so everyone is comfy for the show.
Create Your Concessions
As every movie buff knows, popcorn is a must. Make bowls of fluffy popcorn with an air popper and provide a variety of toppings. Satisfy your guests' diverse cravings with parmesan, herb and, of course, buttered varieties. Balance out the salty snacks with chocolates, caramels and homemade cookies. For a large selection of classic movie concessions, ask each guest to bring a shareable size of their favorite candy. Remember to offer beverages, too. For an easy adult twist on theater soft drinks, opt for hard versions of cola, root beer, lemon lime, grape and orange soda. Have more time? Mix your own batch of signature cocktails, and serve your custom libation in a drink dispenser. Consider offering a mocktail option for guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Set up the Spread
It’s important to find a convenient location for your snacks, drinks and serveware. Place everything near the viewing area for easy access, but provide some distance from the TV to limit distractions. Setting up on a kitchen island or countertop ensures you’ll have ample space for everything. If you to prefer to keep everything in the same room, arrange the items on a console table behind the couch or a sideboard against the wall opposite of the TV. Use glass dishes to hold colorful candy, label ceramic tubs to denote different flavors of popcorn, set out platters for baked goods and remember to provide serving utensils. Since the treats are finger food, offer plenty of napkins too.
Get Comfortable
By arranging your furniture strategically, every guest can feel like they have the best seat in the house. If your TV isn’t already the focal point of your room, rearrange chairs for a comfortable viewing angle. Make sure you put additional seats within optimal viewing distance, between 1.5 and 2.5 times the TV’s diagonal length. If you’re short on chairs, use floor pillows and poufs. Have lots of pillows and blankets within reach so guests can cozy up on the couch, sectional or loveseat. If the coffee table gets crowded, move some snacks and drinks to serving trays, and place them on an ottoman. For a true theater feel, turn off the lights when you start the movie, and use blackout curtains to make the room even darker. Light a few candles or sconces near the snack station to guide your guests to the refreshments.
After preparing with our top tips, be sure to sit back and enjoy the show. What are your favorite movie night ideas? Share them with us using the hashtag #CrateStyle.