5 Tips for Hosting the Perfect Bachelor Viewing Party

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of McCain Foods. The opinions and text are all mine.

One of my favorite shows is back up for another season on Monday nights and I'm already planning on weekly celebrations with my girls. If you're like me and can't wait to follow the drama to see who wins Nick's heart I recommend having watch parties, starting off with a viewing party for the premiere! I've narrowed down exactly how you can have the perfect party with tips on everything from the perfect foods to serve (you have to try these McCain Craft Beer Battered Fries and Onion Rings) to fun games you can play during the show!

Try these 5 tips for throwing the perfect viewing party for The Bachelor.

Have your own Rose Ceremony

Hand roses to your gal pals as they enter your party for your own Rose Ceremony. It’s a great call back to the show and makes a great souvenir for after the party.

Stock up on wine or create a signature cocktail

My general rule of thumb when stocking up on wine for a party is to buy at least 4 different kinds: two red and two white, a sweet and a dry version of each. It’s so hard to snag everyone’s favorite, but this covers the bases pretty well.

Alternatively, you can create a signature cocktail for your party. Something containing bubbly and served from a flute or out of a mason jar are fun choices, especially for the premiere of a wedding themed show. Use Pinterest to find a cute drink to share with your girlfriends.

Have finger foods on hand

Your guests will get hungry, so make sure to have snacks on hand for them to eat. I always like to serve McCain Craft Beer Battered Onion Rings. They’re easy to prepare and make the perfect snack for anyone who’s feeling peckish before or during the show. Plus, my guest are always so impressed, they actually think I know my way around the kitchen. But, really it’s just the flavor these onion rings have that really impress them.

These onion rings are made with real onions, and are crafted with real American Pale Ale. I picked up a bag from my local retailer. The first time I served these onion rings at a party, my friends couldn’t believe these were frozen, store bought onion rings. They now request I keep these in my freezer at all times (just in case there’s an impromptu girl’s night.) To make it a little extra special, I sprinkle them with a little seasoning right before serving. You can also serve with your choice of two to three dipping sauces. (I’m a fan of the classic ketchup, chipotle mayo, and ranch dressing.)

My guests always love a fun drink and some McCain Craft Beer Battered Onion Rings to make for a great night!

Take bets

After the premiere have guests bet on who they think will win. Have everyone place $5 into a jar. The host will use this money to purchase a spa day/treat of some sort for the winner at the end of the season.

Provide ample and comfortable seating

I made this rookie mistake the first time I hosted a party. I had just moved into my new apartment and had a couch which could seat 3 people, a comfortable chair, and four hard wooden chairs the no arm rests that were several feet of the ground so your feet dangled awkwardly when you sat in it. My guests were polite, but I quickly realized I would have to provide more comfortable seating the next time I invited people over, even if this came in the form of giant floor pillows.

Have fun watching The Bachelor next week and remember to enjoy your own party. Make sure your guests are comfortable and pick simple recipes and drinks that are easy to serve like the McCain Craft Beer Battered Onion Rings and a simple cocktail that can be prepared ahead of time. This saves you the trouble of running around cooking and mixing drinks all night.

You want to be able to enjoy the show too! In my opinion, food and drinks are the most important part of any party and McCain Craft Beer Battered Onion Rings have never let me down: flavorful and simple. Remember, The Bachelor is fun and lighthearted so your party should be too.