There is a phenomenon that every vegan is fully aware of: the fear of entertaining a vegan.
We know that for many, even our close family and friends, the idea of having to cook for us or entertain us at a party can feel like a minefield. And, in some ways, it is a minefield; there’s more to consider if you plan to host a vegan-friendly party than just food! Alcohol, for one, can contain or be manufactured using animal ingredients (lots of it isn’t even vegetarian!).
Fortunately, once you know what to look out for, I promise it is easy! In fact, all you need is to follow these six handy tips and you’ll know exactly how to host a vegan-friendly party.
I recently attended a fabulous Christmas party hosted by bonprix, who knew exactly how to throw a party and it gave me just the inspiration I needed to create this guide on how to host a vegan-friendly party.
1. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Veganism is more popular and better understood than ever before, but it’s still far from mainstream. Us vegans know this and don’t expect you to have all the answers already; in fact, we’d love for you to ask us questions!
Everything from “What can’t you eat?” and “Can you eat honey?” (that’s a no!) to “What’s a good vegan substitute for X?” and even “Do you have a good vegan recipe for X?” will go a long way to helping you host a vegan-friendly party.
2. Check if your drinks are vegan-friendly
Did you know some alcoholic and even drinks such as orange juice are sometimes made using animal products? Worse, the substances used are often from slaughtered animals; gelatine, fish bladders and blood are all used more commonly than you might think. Some brands do label their drinks as vegan, but it’s sadly quite rare.
If you’re splashing out for spirits for your party, they’re the most likely to be vegan-friendly but it’s worth checking via a website such as Barnivore. Beers and wines are hit and miss so it’s a good idea to look up the brands you’re considering to see what to go with. Simply type in the brand and it will show you if they’re vegan or not.
3. Have vegan canapés
This goes without saying but it can feel like the hardest part of entertaining a vegan guest!
Fortunately, there’s no shortage of inspiration out there!
Clockwise from far left: 1. Slices of Maple Parsnip & Chestnut Wellington. 2. Vine Tomatoes & Aubergine Rolls 3. Boozy Mince Pie Bites. 4. Vegan Pigs in Blankets. 5. Slices of Maple Glazed Tofu.
Vegan canapés at the bonprix On The Rocks event!
And, of course, Pinterest is your best friend!
4. Make sure those canapés get to your vegan guest
Not sure what I’m getting at here? Then take note now!
There’s nothing less fun as a vegan party guest than all of the food coming out at once and the vegan options being snapped up before you’ve even set your eyes on them – especially if there isn’t any more waiting in the wings. By all means make enough of the vegan options to serve everyone, but do make sure your vegan guest knows what is vegan and has first dibs on it.
5. Plan a fun activity (that everyone can take part in)
The bonprix Christmas party I attended included a rather wonderful cocktail making session – an example of a perfect activity that everyone can get involved with! (With the option of alcohol-free mocktails to make it inclusive, naturally.)
6. Don’t fret and don’t fuss!
This might be the most important of all. With a little preparation and communication beforehand, there’s nothing to worry about and no guest wants to feel like a burden!
Need more tips on how to host a vegan-friendly party? Take a look at my guides for hosting a veggie-friendly Christmas and a veggie-friendly barbecue!
Why not pin this post for later?