Remember: All
special events are made memorable by the attitude of the hosts and the tone
they set for their guests!
- · When planning your celebration, remember it’s a party, not world peace!
- · One or Two of your dishes “dialed in” will be talked about and enjoyed more than 12 items that are mediocre.
- · Plan something that gets all of your guests engaged together as a group:
~ Each guest bring a bottle of wine with a story to tell about it
~ Have each guest tell something no
one knows about them
- Plan a small “take-away” so guests are reminded of the celebration, especially if it has special meaning culturally or with your family:~ Homemade limoncello from the Italian family as gifts at their daughter's wedding~ Apple butter made from apples in your yard for the Holiday party
- · You are more important to your guests than your food, so plan your menu so you are not a slave to the stove during your party. (Or hire a caterer!)
- · Plan your toast in advance of the celebration. Make it touching or humorous, but memorable! Keep it short and sweet.
- · Food is community. Have guests bring a special dish such as “Mom’s famous dessert” or “The dish that best represents my heritage”
- · Invite a “secret special guest” that might make it special for your guests. A local winemaker to talk about wine, a dance instructor to teach salsa, an author to talk about her book topic or a local musician to just sit at the piano and take requests.
- · Engage and involve people in the celebration~ they will have vivid memories of the day!
- · If people don’t know each other, create a fun Icebreaker. A friend of mine has a huge bowl of retro candy. Choose your favorite piece and share with others why you chose it.
- · Have an interactive table for guests: roll sushi with the chef, shake a martini with the bartender or ice and decorate cookies to take home.
- · If you have hired a valet, have them place a little goodie or special note in the car when the guest is leaving.
Cheers!
Lisa
