Which Party??  Find out with four questions…

No. We’re not talking about political parties…  As we head into the fall, we’re thinking about your parties – Galas, fundraisers, and holiday gatherings that are all on the horizon.  We are excited about events that bring people together, create memories and leave you –  well, hopefully – feeling a lot more hopeful!!   Here are four questions to consider for party success – 

1. What is the occasion?

While it’s always great to celebrate holidays and life’s important milestones… birthdays, babies, weddings and anniversaries –  you don’t always need a big occasion.  Gathering people together can be special without a major reason, consider:

• Back to School
• College Send Off
• Welcoming a new neighbor or co-worker
• Celebrating a big win
• Gathering for game night, 
• Mom’s or Dad’s night In…

Ask: Who do I want to celebrate & why? 

2. Who’s on the Guest List?

Whether an intimate gathering at home with a few close friends, or a blowout of 100+ guests, really plan the guest list. Make sure to mix it up a bit.  Invite people with different backgrounds and interests…Have a blend of outgoing guests and more reserved folks.   For a school fundraiser, consider alumni and people who live in the community to join families whose children attend the school.  Worried about mixing friends & guests?  Consider placing Table Topics at each table or around the room to help kick off fun conversations at any gathering.  If you have an old set of these great cards, sell them on AME to another host.

3. Where will it be?

Whether at home or in a large venue, we always like to set up ‘zones” – or places that can get the party moving; consider a staffed bar and a self serve area, a different spot for desserts – at the holidays we like to set up a cookie decorating station, complemented by a Hot Cocoa /Irish Coffee station. For larger venues try Peer Space. – this great app helps narrow down venue search in a click – think Air BnB for Parties. 

4. What is the theme or vibe?

Hosting a low key at home: How about game night? Bring a mixologist to create cocktails with a few friends. Or one of our favorites, “DIY dinner”  – each guest helps create one element of a quick and easy meal: 

For example, 

• one group is on spaghetti and warming up a sauce
• another team is assembling appetizers of veggies and dips
• one more pair is building a delicious salad 
• And a small team is handling table decor and arranging the flowers. To keep the look Lux and on budget, check out pre-loved items at After My Event

For a big event, two of our favorite Go/To Themes that make it easy to handle dress code and decor:

•  Black & White Gala
• “High Lo” gala. Think: Ball gowns and high tops; pizza and Veuve Cliquot .  

Finally, our fav Pro Tip?  Once the party’s over, recoup some of those costs and do well by the planet -sell those preloved party items to the next host! …Don’t Waste Good Taste TM