Advice

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Advice

1. Develop a theme: Theme parties are not just for kids these days. Whether your theme is related to a traditional holiday, a special event, a milestone, a season, color, or genre, it doesn’t matter — select one! A theme can be subtle or all out, in-your-face, but either way, it allows for consistency and a party framework. Brainstorm and you will get inspired!

2. Invitations entice: Get creative with your invitations. Mail them well in advance so that your guests can arrange to come. Your invitations should be tied to your theme, and should always include a phone number and date by which to RSVP. Decorative papers, clip art, rubber stamps, stickers and confetti are simple ways to tie your invitations to your theme. If your invitations look fun, then your guests will look forward to your party.

3. The three E’s: David Tutera, a party planner in New York City, uses a system of the three Es when it comes to developing party elements: he categorizes them into Essentials, Extras, and Extravagances. This helps to prioritize all of the party elements to fit the mood and budget. For example, at a champagne tasting party, I would categorize the champagne and champagne glasses as essentials, a champagne fountain as an extra, and customized champagne buckets as an extravagance. If time and money are not option, then of course, the sky is the limit. For the rest of us, the three Es can help us prioritize.

4. Clear the space: When having a party at home, most people remember to clean up, but not to clean out. I recommend that you move unnecessary furniture and home furnishings out of the space to create a more party-friendly environment. This will allow for more guest comfort, and also for your decorative elements to take center stage.

5. Centerpieces are expected: The old staple of my mother’s day, the centerpiece, still rules. Think outside the box, or vase, here, and add some creativity to your table décor. Rummage through the attic, garage, refrigerator or toy box for inspiration. Centerpieces can mean much more than flowers!

6. Lighting: Candles, luminaries, holiday lights, rope lighting, flood lights and paper lanterns are all simple ways to transform your space from plain to pleasing. Lighting can help create a warm and relaxing ambiance for your guests, and can transform your living space into something unusual.

7. Food & drink - KISS: The ‘Keep It Simple, Stupid’ principle applies! Unless a gourmet extravaganza is your theme, don’t hesitate to simplify! Instead of providing an open bar, limit the drink selections to a few self-serve options. Include recipes so that guests can figure it out themselves. As far as food, appetizers and desserts are always in favor, and your local grocer often can prepare party platters which can save time and headaches. Also note that self-service buffets are perfectly acceptable. Make yours easy to navigate, by having items appropriately labeled, well positioned, and well stocked.

8. Enlist help: If you have any hope of enjoying your guests, do get help. College kids can be persuaded to pass food, clear trays, refill ice buckets and run emergency errands. Hire a babysitter if your kids can not be self sufficient. Ask guests to bring a dish to pass, or explore catering options before committing to doing all the work yourself. Without assistance, the host and hostess typically bounce from one chore to the next throughout the entire party, with no time for meaningful conversation with the guests. A professional party planner can help you plan your event properly so that you are likely to enjoy entertaining! Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance!

9. Music is mandatory: Unless you have booked specific entertainment for your event, do not overlook the music! CDs are an inexpensive way to add to the mood of your party. What would a Mardi Gras party be without New Orleans jazz?

10. Give thanks: Personalized favors are a great way to thank your guests for sharing time with you, and also for them to fondly remember your party. Favors can be simple and inexpensive, from food to photos, but are always a nice added touch. Write a thank-you note to anyone who provided you with assistance during your event.

Do you ever wonder why some parties are better than others? What exactly makes an event special? Obviously, entertaining is all about the people. Making your guests feel special will allow them to relax and have fun, which is what it is all about. Here are our top ten ideas to turn your next party from fine to fantastic!

Top Ten List

Do you have other suggestions to glam up a party? Feel free to e-mail us with your ideas!