The ABCs of Party Planning

Choosing Refreshments Based on the Guest List & Type of Party

Dear Rebecca,

I want to plan a great party. Please inform me of how to choose the food, drink, and atmosphere. Also, could you tell me more about types of parties, theme parties, and when is best for the usual vs. elegant event?

Clueless

Dear Clueless,

The first thing I think of when planning a party, besides the guest list, is the food and which wines I will pour. Food and drink are essential components of any party. The type of party the host wishes to host will dictate what type of food and beverages are served.

However, there are times that I will purchase a new bottle of wine and while thinking of what type of food will best match it, will experience an epiphany. Suddenly, I just know that I want to share this type of wine paired with a certain food with a particular group of people. The best host knows what their guests like to eat and drink, and how they like to celebrate and will create an opportunity to cater to those particulars.

Choose a Theme & Build on It

There is always a reason for any type of party, whether it is the casual, informal open house, elegant holiday party – so you can wear that great new cocktail dress — or a zany Elvis look-alike party. It is all about sharing with others. And it is all about fun.

Most sincerely,

Rebecca

More by Rebecca

Q & A: The Best and Worst Parties I’ve Hosted or Attended

How to Create a Great Guest List

Party Hosting Reluctance: Why and How to Overcome it?

Comments

Food Review: Trader Joe’s Animal Crackers

Tub of Fun Found in Trader Joe's Animal Crackers If you are like me, every time I see a box of animal crackers, I relive my childhood years of drooling over a box decorated as if it is a red circus boxcar filled with exotic animals. My favorite cookie/cracker was the elephant. Therefore, when I noticed a tub --yes an entire tub-- of animal cookies on a Trader Joe’s shelf, I squealed like a little girl and promptly tossed one in my cart. As a fan of simple English style cookies, Trader Joe’s Organic Animal Crackers are a perfect fit for me. They are crunchy, light, great with hot beverages, and shaped like animals. What could be better? Right? The real surprise with these cookies is that these are not your typical guilty-pleasure snacks. Oh no. These puppies —or should I say camels -- are low in fat and sodium, vegan, organic and only 120 for 17 delicious cookies! There are even tigers in the tub. It just ge...

How to Grill Herbal-Rubbed Chicken Breast Perfectly

Look out baby, Memorial Day is nearing so barbecue season has officially begun I bet this sounds familiar. You are standing in the middle of your backyard drooling on the bucket of just pulled weeds because an enticing aroma of yummy barbecue wafts through the air. Sadly, it is not coming from your grill. The bad and good news of this tasty temptation is that I'm that neighbor torturing you with mouthwatering BBQ aromas, but I'm letting you in on some of my secrets! Good BBQ begins in the kitchen Although not a food snob, I am particular. I believe that the best 'cue begins in the kitchen. Fresh food is a must, and it has to be cooked just right. Moreover, whatever goes on the grill must be bursting with flavor. Luckily, I have a prolific herb garden. This won't rub you the wrong way Since I tend to lean toward Mediterranean dishes...

Using Teachable Moments When Planning & Hosting Parties

Dear Rebecca, What do children and teens learn from their parent’s throwing parties ? Parent Dear Parent, Children of all ages learn everything from their parents. They learn all their manners , which is basically how we treat others and ourselves. They also learn etiquette, which is the protocol, how we behave, or how we are expected to behave in public. So, if a child’s parents throw raucous parties with alcohol and loud music, the child will believe that this is what is expected at parties. If the parents cater to their guests, treating them as special, the child will learn that he/she should treat their guests as special. Parents are their child’s best teachers to teach him/her about life and being a good person. Pro-Tip Involve your child in the planning and preparation of the party. Teach him/her how to focus on guests' needs. Most sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca Q & A: The Best and Worst Parties I’ve Hosted or At...

Living Well Etc.

Search This Blog