The secret to throwing a sensational soiree is in the planning. Whether you're hosting a shower, a graduation party or a get together just for fun, our smart strategies and ideas are sure to inspire you.
Smart Strategies for a Great Party
Invite Your Guests
Set the scene with creative invitations sent a few weeks in advance. You can design them yourself on a computer or use craft supplies. And try to add a few unexpected touches. For example, use a tiny pair of booties or a rubber duck for the invitation, and affix babyshower details, such as date, time, place and driving directions.
Serve Tasty Treats
Opt for flavorful, fresh foods that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. First, consider the time of the party. Do you want to serve a morning brunch, an elegant tea, appetizers, a full dinner or desserts only? Unless you are hosting a sit-down dinner, choose easy-to-prepare foods that can be eaten in two or three bites, such as spring rolls, miniature quiches and cheesecake tartlets. If you’re hosting a barbecue, try skewers with vegetables and meat to give guests a full meal. Use warming trays and slow cookers to keep hot foods above 140º Fahrenheit and use ice or ice packs to chill cold foods.
Provide BeveragesOffer an assortment of drinks, including non-alcoholic choices. Rather than providing numerous liquor options, keep costs low by serving a signature cocktail, punch or wine. Guests will likely gather in the heart of the home, so consider setting up a drink station on an island, along a bar or even on a portable cart. Set out cups, napkins, ice and a blender (if you’re serving frozen drinks). Keep bottled water and sodas available and brew coffee toward the end of the evening. If you have limited counterspace, chill beverages in your kitchen sink filled with ice.
Set the Table
If you’re short on dishes, mix and match your tableware and napkins for a casual-chic look. Choose everyday dinnerware over paper plates for a more eco-friendly meal. Add a simple but pretty centerpiece, such as colorful fruit or flowers from the garden.
Decorate With Party Favors
Send your friends and family home with a favor that’s reminiscent of the get-together. To save money, choose gifts that double as decorations. For example, fill small vases with flowers, wrap up boxes of cookies or candies or gather small potted plants. Group the items on a platter to serve as a centerpiece or put one at each setting as a place card. After the party, guests can take them home as favors.
Prep Your Space
One or two days before the party, take stock of your home. If necessary, move furniture to create comfortable conversation areas and adequate walkways. Ensure that the bath is stocked with tissues and hand towels and add a touch of luxury with scented candles or hand lotion.
Use Music
Enhance the mood with music. Keep the tunes in the background so they don’t hinder conversation. As the party continues, you may want to turn up favorite songs so guests can sing along. If you’re hosting an outdoor affair, consider installing outdoor speakers to keep the party going on the patio.
Good To Know
Proper food safety is vital. Perishable food should be discarded after more than two hours at room temperature.
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