Planning a party can be stressful. Many hosts take it upon themselves to over do it, (shooting for Martha Stewart perfection) that results in unnecessary stress and three days worth of recovery. Parties are meant to be festive and FUN! Instead of wearing yourself out and eyeballing the chaise lounge, put together a loose plan (or as I like to do: Shoot from the hip) and stop aiming for perfection. Most guests like a little structure, but when things go wrong or not at all, be honest and run with it…..besides those are often the best parties!
1) Why are you having a party?
Typically there is a reason for the party. Choose a theme or main entree and plan the festivities and dishes around it. For instance, New Years is coming up in just a few days and that can be your theme to kick off the direction of your party.
- What is your WHY?
2) Keep it Simple
Choose recipes that are easy to prepare, or already prepared from the store. It is also helpful to choose recipes that can be made one or two days before the event, like these cucumber feta rolls. All the ingredients can be pre-made ahead of time and then assembled the day of the event. Easy to make, beautiful color, and super delicious.
3) Consider eye appeal
Colorful foods, such as red or orange vegetables, add instant eye appeal to your party. They can also coordinate with the festivities! Remember parties are more about the EXPERIENCE, so make it memorable with fun decor, good scents, and colorful food.
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4) Prepare a list
Create a list of everything you will need and buy 4-7 days before the event. Try to have at least three to five small bites, and offer tea, water, wine and if the festivities call for it, Champagne! Tea and water are simple, and water can be infused with citrus, and cucumbers to delight the taste buds. (Also steps up your game and makes your event look fancy) Having a plan saves you from the added stress of having to make last-minute dashes to the store.
5) Find ways to Add Charm
Find small ways to add charm to your event. For example, use mason jars in new ways, offer straws with bottle soda, use mismatched china from the flea market…whatever it is, use it to add to your party!
What are some of your favorite party tricks?
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images: Erin ever after, good life eats, martha stewart, she knows living, I love honey lace
About Amanda Gates
Such gorgeous pics! That first table setting is just dreamy!! I think simple and elegant is always a winning combination for any party, big or small. Happy 2012!
Perfect timing, Amanda, as I’m doing a small New Year’s Eve party here. I’ve actually got my list, based off my menu, and I’m heading to the supermarket today. I’m working on the adding charm though. Trying to picture in my head how I’m laying everything out. I should probably just practice with the dishes and such on the table and counter to see how it will look.
Ooops, forgot to say Happy New Year! : )