The Making of a Party

On By Leslie Byars RegisterIn Ask Leslie, Buy the Book, The Parties

“Have a vision.”

Well in advance, begin gathering the party supplies. You probably have more than you think sitting around your house. Get a pile going. It will be a motivating source of excitement.

“Look around.”

Anything can be anything. Three palettes found in a discard pile make the perfect height and size for a coffee table for a large sitting area. Palette Tip: the cute blue ones are about 5 times as heavy, so plan accordingly.

“Redecorate.”

Rearrange what you already own. Like for instance, I moved my outdoor furniture from the covered porch to the middle of the yard, which opened up a new spot to dine.

“Google everything.”

These adorable Moroccan paper plates from Amazon sat neatly on my wooden chargers. Instead of water glasses, I purchased La Croix sparkling water in cans that matched the tablecloth. No one even noticed they didn’t have a water glass and were eating on paper plates. The cleanup was a piece of cake.

“Keep the food nearby.”

When eating outdoors, try to keep the dining area as close to the food as possible. You want everyone to easily be able to access seconds and thirds!

“Beg, borrow, and steal.”

Ask friends and family for anything you might need. Don’t be afraid to mix-and-match. An assortment of Moscow mule mugs are far more interesting than a matching set. And, yes, I used paper straws.

“Cutting rights.”

Keep your eyes peeled when driving around town and take note of the houses with abundant flowering hedges. Ask before cutting and always leave a small gift or thank-you note to show your appreciation.

“Simplify the appetizers.”

When cooking an entire meal for a crowd, don’t wear yourself out making a ton of appetizers. Like I mention in my book, Leslie’s Party Diaries, the Ritz-Carlton Trio is always a hit. Simply fill a 3-way container with any nibbles you have in the pantry.

“Prep so you can play.”

I always prep everything possible a day or two ahead. This tip is a game changer.

“Stay on point.”

Stick with your theme from start to finish, like this spectacular Moroccan wedding cake made by Olexa’s Catering and Cakes, olexas.com

“Dress the part.”

Plan ahead if you are the guest of honor. Make all alterations and have your outfit and accessories ready to go.

“The parting gift.”

Clearance shelves almost always have a prize or two. It’s my first stop when looking for party favors. These little vases from west elm doubled as the centerpiece too. westelm.com

“The reward.”

And finally, always allow a few minutes to enjoy all your hard work after a party. This may be my favorite coffee spot around the house.

For all of the recipes from the Moroccan birthday dinner, go to Moroccan Made Easy a past post from February 28, 2018. (or click on the red type above)

Now it’s your turn to start planning your own party. You will be surprised how rewarding and fun it will be.

Also, I love to brainstorm about parties. So, if you need any help, just ask! Have a great weekend. Leslie

I still have a few books left in the basement. If you need a gift or two go to Buy the Book on this post, or to my website at lesliespartydiaries.com

 

7 thoughts on “The Making of a Party”

  4. Barbara Elliott
    Love the party ideas! Thank you! My department at school will be a good place to use these ideas for an end-of-the-summer party.

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