aside from an excuse

[GUEST2008]

Hi

Once you have moved into a new home, consider having a housewarming party. Aside from an excuse to have friends over, this is an excellent way to introduce your friends and new house to each other.

I have some problems with understanding the phrase "aside from an excuse" here? I checked what it means, but somehow I'm still not sure how to interpret it in this context?

[jahildebrandt]

Not a teacher.

"Aside from an excuse to have friends over..." is equivalent to "besides being an excuse to have friends over..."

Meaning a housewarming party can be one reason to have friends over.