Even though our mid-summer night dreams have long approached and passed us by,
it’s not too late to dazzle and sizzle
Here’s a step by step guide to have the most talked about ‘intimate’ soiree of the summer–make those who weren’t invited covet an invite and those who did attend have “what happens here, stays here” memories….
1. It’s all about location, location, location.
Instant upgrade: rooftop patio party.
2. Choose your theme.
If you want a sweaty, rock ya body type of party (think rock or rap 80s style with buffet) or a “I’m not sweating my make up off for this” type of party (think sit down, Kimora Lee Simmons type grandious fabulousity). SOme ideas: all white affair, 70s disco, extreme executive mode, beach blanket fun, etc. Just make sure you let your guests know well in advance. You don’t want someone to show up in a neon orange leisure suit and afro to your ultra white party because they were misinformed.
Instant upgrade: Set the party atmosphere with soothing hues and sounds. Turn your classy up a few nothches by creating an elegant atmosphere that is sexy and savorful (I think I made that word up). Use music and color as a way to set the mood.
3. Send out your invites
Although we are in the New Age, Gen Y, or whatever you want to call it, email invites have become the norm. I personally think that they can be a bit tacky and impersonal. You have to be careful not to send them to the wrong persons. I have received many an email invites because I was on someone other than the sender’s mass email list. You can do one of the following: invite via email, via phone, or via the mail. Pick the one that suits your style best.
Instant upgrade: Have the invites professionally made or make them yourself. Getting invites in the mail gives each invitee a little unknown joy that makes their naughty parts tingle with delight–at at least mine do–something about a mail invite gives me joy!
4. Budget, budget, budget.
Whether you are on a high roller baller budget or barely can pay your mortgage (yes, I said “mortgage.” Take note….) budget, you need to budget your party expenses. Many a fools have gone broke after great parties (we all know broke newlyweds who had a fantastic reception). Seeing as though I believe that money looks its best in interest bearing accounts in the bank, mutual funds, or stocks, your party budget should be well within your means. If you can’t rent out a garden patio, don’t do it. Your real friends know how much you really make and will tell you, ” I know that you can’t afford this. WHO are YOU trying to impress?” Keep your expenses low and you won’t have to borrow money from the same peope you invite to your fab shindig after its over.
Instant upgrade: Start saving now for the party of the summer next year. Set a line item in your budget for “fantastical function” and make it happen!
5. Food prep 101
Instant upgrade: Hire a caterer and create your own signature drink.
6. It’ s all about the presentation
One of the Big O’s favorite boy toys, Art Smith, has this stylish advice for a fantastic summer layout:
With summer entertaining, presentation is key according to Art. Put out fresh flowers, special tablecloths, candles and beautiful china.
According to my favorite resident ex-con, Martha Stewart, you can create your own simple, yet extravagant, table centerpieces. Follow the directions below
SUPPLIES
Glass bowls
Votive candles in glass candleholders
Water
CREATE YOUR OWN CENTERPIECES
Float a few flowers in a shallow pool of water.
Float a single flower in a large, ornate glass bowl.
Put a little water in the candleholder to keep wax from sticking.
Arrange votives around the flowers.
Instant upgrade: Hire a party planner and have a few drinks while they stress it out….
Keep it strictly stylish!
