How to Host an Amazing Party in Six Easy Steps !
By : Hilary Hart , Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse
Everyone oohs and aahs over those Pinterest posts that have dazzling dining tables , clever party favors and fabulous desserts . It ’ s not as difficult or expensive as you think to create these feats of creativity ! However , all the options can be overwhelming to pull together for one cohesive , elegant creation .
You ’ ve picked a date , have an idea of the guest count , picked the venue , and are ready to start the fun part of planning decorations and pulling your thoughts together to create the perfect atmosphere !
First Step : Decide on a theme . This is easy if it ’ s a baby shower or a child ’ s birthday party . You can google and find complete sets of party decorations . It gets a little more difficult if you are hosting an engagement party or ladies dinner party where the options are not quite so focused . Do you envision colorful & fun , elegant & understated or glitzy & glamorous ?
Second Step : Choose your colors . Select 2-3 colors that compliment each other and can be paired with other items . If you will have flowers , consider what ’ s in season and available colors . If you ’ re throwing a party for someone else , do they have a favorite color ? Is your party seasonal such as an Easter dinner which celebrates Spring ?
Third Step : Invite your guests . Select and order your invitations or design your Evite . You can narrow your search by themes and colors . Or , if you ’ re super creative , design your own ! You can match your decorating ideas to give a sneak peek of what guests can expect .
Fourth Step : Select decor . Start with the easiest , basic item , linens . Tablecloths , runners or overlays give you the base to begin your creation . You can add linen or satin napkins and / or chair sashes . These are great
for inexpensive pops of colors , usually renting for $ 1- $ 2 each . Before you actually place your order , you will need to have a good idea of your guest count and the shape and size of the tables you will be covering . Many linen companies such as Linens N ’ Decor offer dramatic crystal trees with tea lights and other table decor . They can offer their expertise and options that are often very affordable .
Chargers , colored glasses , flowers and candles can also up your game . Think outside the box ! If you will have assigned seating , there ’ s a lot of fun holders out there . Or , make your own ! Pinecones are free and plentiful and can be spray painted to match your colors .
Remember the paper fortune tellers you made in school ? You can incorporate these as a place card and a fun game to play at the table !
Fifth Step : Take-Aways & Favors : This is a fun item to commemorate the occasion ! Stemless wine glasses , personalized chocolates or cupcakes in cute boxes , and so much more . Try to select an item that someone will enjoy or actually use , not just something to stamp your name onto .
Sixth Step : Place your orders . Items such as linens , flowers , favors and custom cakes / desserts need to be ordered in time to ensure the best options . Talk to your vendors about deadlines for orders , deposits and full payment . Find out if they set up or if you will need to plan time ahead to set up your decor . Allow plenty of time to have a break to get yourself ready to party !
MOMENTUM / March 2017 15