Party and Event Planning tips and advice
The key to successful party planning is knowing your audience. You know not to invite non-drinkers to a martini party, but you should also find out if your guests have any dietary restrictions, it's always helpful to know if there is an alergy to something before you make or order dozens of them. There are really only three things you need to make every party or event great: fun and interesting people, great food and a good attitude. Everything will fall into place with these three core ingredients.
Create Atmosphere
The most basic elements make the atmosphere pleasant and inviting. Try any or all of these simple items at any party or event. Fresh Flowers - No matter what the event or what season it is you can't go wrong with fresh flowers Candles - Mainly for adult parties, candles are too tempting to little ones. But for a kid free party or event candles add instant warmth and create a soothing, compfortable atmosphere Music - Music can make or break the party. Always have the music planned out before the party. If it's not a dance party that requires the tunes to be the focal point, make sure you don't have the music so loud people can't talk with each other.
Food and Drinks
Whatever you are celebrating eating and drinking are sure to be part of it. You may just want to serve appetizers or desserts and coffee. Some parties require a full meal. Orange County offers many wonderful restaurants and caterers that can help with all of your meal planning needs. See Catering, Bakeries and Recipes.
Party Checklist
FIRST Establish a party budget Make your guest list Select a party theme Set the party date and time Find and reserve location if having the party away from your home If you are having the food catered, find and hire a caterer Send party invitations
SECOND Take inventory of party supplies and purchase needed decoration items Use delivery from any company or service that offers it to save time and stress Plan your party menu and decide on the décor and music Order any party rental equipment Take inventory of kitchen items and tableware for the party If you are hosting your party away from home, call to confirm Order cake Purchase non-perishable food and drinks for your party Call non-RSVP guests Make sure you have a camera ready Refrigerate drinks, defrost frozen foods and homemade cake Prepare food that can be refrigerated, make sauces, wash and cut up vegetables Clean your house. Put out clean towels. Make sure you have enough toilet paper.
LAST Chill wine and other drinks Put out fresh flowers and pretty candles Pick up cake, ice and balloons Take a deep breath, smile and have a great time
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Check out our recipes for easy and delicious party favorites.
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