PARTY PLANNING 101

 When it comes to party planning, there are some basic rules of thumb:

Location, Invitations, Decor, Food & Beverages and Atmosphere.

But, how you interpret these “rules of thumb” is what gives your party style and panache. 

 Here are a few tips to make your next party a fabulous & stylish one!

THE LOCATION…

When choosing a location, pick a spot that will reinforce the “mood” you want to create for the event. 

For an outdoor party, incorporate some indoor decorative elements to give a warm, home-like feel.

via verandah

THE INVITE…

The invitation you select to communicate your party will set the tone for the event. 

I say go with something spectacular! 

 

One of my favorite, and I mean favorite stationery/invitation companies is Ceci New York.  Lisa “Ceci”  Johnson is the founder and creative director of this magnificent line of paper goods.  Her designs are classic yet sophisticated, and the colors, textures and details she applies makes each invitation a work of art. And, if her invitations weren’t enough to make you faint,  Ceci worked with the USPS to develop a custom line of postage stamps, showcasing her beautiful designs. What could be better than gorgeous invitations and a postage stamp to complete the look. You can check out her full line of stamps at Cecizazzle.com.

 

 

 Ceci New York Proud Peacock Collection

   

CeCi  New York Custom Designed Postage Stamps.  How cute are these!

 Ceci New York has a faithful following of customers, including many celebrities. 

The invitation above was custom designed for Sean “P Diddy” Combs’ annual White Party. 

 

THE DECOR…

Once the invitations are in the mail, it’s time to focus on the decor.  Layering is the key for creating a stunning visual statement.   

Layer your linens on the table; Create layers with your dinnerware; Incorporate layers of fresh flowers as the centerpiece.  Give the eyes lots to look at!

Whatever elements you use, creating layers of texture, color, pattern and dimension will give your table that wow factor.

 

 via carolyn roehm

 FOOD & DRINK…

When it comes to your food and beverage selections, do something that will have your signature touch on it: 

Mix-and-match your stemware to create an eclectic and colorful statment. 

Create a signature cocktail that reflects the theme or occasion you are celebrating. 

And, finish the evening with a dessert that stands out.

via carolyn roehm

via southern living 

THE ATMOSPHERE…

I don’t think any party is good unless there is a bit of mood music to infuse the atmosphere. 

 Whether you choose Jazz, Swing, or a little R & B, make sure to have music playing in the back ground.  Here are a few of my favorite party cd’s, available from Brisa.

 image via Brisa

So the next time you get ready to plan a big soiree, make a statement–a unique and personal one! 

Photo source:  Veranda, Ceci New York, Carolyn Roehm, Southern Living, Brisa