So I hope everyone has learned a couple tips by the Event Series! I know the more parties and dinners I throw, the more I learn. It's an ongoing process. I haven't showcased all the parties I've thrown (as I'm sure you have noticed from the photos above) but I just wanted to recap and add some things that I didn't get to share in the series.
Playlist: Building the perfect playlist is like a science. Even though I love the Genius feature on my iTunes, I really don't think it's appropriate on special occasions. No one wants to listen to the same type of music for hours on end. The key to a great playlist is to start off on the generic upbeat side and build the energy up as time goes on with a variety of genres. Also, think of who you are having. Don't just play what you want to hear or just what you think your guests may want to hear. People need to branch out, and its a great source for conversation.
Rentals: If you haven't noticed already, I put a strong emphasis on rentals. All you need to do, is bite the bullet and do it once. You will then realize it's not that big of a deal. If the rental place you are dealing with doesn't have exactly what you are looking for, go to another place. Some rental businesses are focused more on plates and generic things, while others are more focused on specialty items. I use about two different rental places all the time. They all have showrooms and online catalogues. Remember, by renting, you don't need to clean the dishes or glassware. This reduces both stress and cleanup time. Well worth the money.
Tents: In my opinion, tents are worth every penny. Especially if it's an outdoor summer party (pictured above). If it's too hot, it will shield you from the heat, and if it's raining - well you have shelter. Either way you are covered. No plan B needed.
Photos: After the setup, and before company arrives, enjoy the fruits of your labour and take some sexy snap shots. If you think you won't be up for it, get a friend to come early and do it for you.
Keeping your Cool: When the night is done, we want people remembering what a fun time they had - not how stressed the host looked. Your disposition sets the tone for the night. If there was a big mishap in the kitchen, don't lead on. With that in mind, the key ingredient to not being stressed out is the next point;
Keeping it Simple: I've touched on this a bit, but we need to remember to keep things simple. Even if you just made the most decadent meal, but you were stressed out the whole time - um...well how do I put this...the night will suck. Everyone won't remember that perfectly seared tuna, they will remember you being stressed to the max. In contrast, if you make things that can be mostly prepared before hand, it will free up your time and relax everyone. I enjoy eating in courses. That way I can just beetle on into the kichen for a couple mintues and assemble the next course. Preparation is key.
Thinking Outside of the Box When Planning: There is nothing wrong with thinking traditionally. Tradition is great! But once and while promise me you will try something new and different. Get inspiration from movies, magazines or other sources and bounce ideas off of your friends. Lots can happen in those brainstorming sessions. My sister-in-law just threw a dinner party, and she put soup in a tea pot which was poured into vintage tea cups. In a anniversary party I threw a couple years back, we put chandeliers in the trees and brought throw rugs out onto the grass (pictured above). There are so many ways to make your party stand alone.
Cheers,
Charysse
