Entertaining Summer: A Party Planning Cheatsheet

Hello there!  
Summer's finally here and that means Barbecues, Parties and Outdoor fun. Here are 10 simple steps that'll help you turn your next shindig into a show stopping event...

1.  Choose a Theme

STOP! Do not run to your local Party Store and buy every character licensed tchotchke you can find.  Think of your theme as a continuos thread that holds your party together. A theme can be a conceptual idea, a mood or even a color. Use it as a guideline to put all the elements together.  Having a theme will definitely help to streamline your design. 

​2.  Linens and Things

Introducing fabrics into the mix instantly adds luxury to your decor. Try simple table linens for a polished look. Or use a chiffon drape to add drama.

​3. Basic Blooms

Floral arrangements can be daunting and quite pricy. Placing single stems in bottles is a simple sophisticated way to display florals. Try using bottles of various heights, in different hues, to add dimension. 

4. Let's  Dish

R.I.P to the disposable foil pan. While it makes for quicker cleanup, it can leave your decor a mess. Opt for vessels that compliment your theme and add to your overall presentation.

5.  Plate  It  Pretty

Food is a major component to any successful gathering. And with the percentage of the budget it takes up, why not make it do double duty? "Plating pretty" is not only visually impactful, but it's the signature of good hospitality. So practice your penmanship. 

6.  Mix It  Up

Ditch the soft drinks. Homemade is not only better for your health. It's also better for your presentation. Nothing says Summer like a  pitcher of freshly squeezed Lemonade.

7. Put It  On a Stick

This one's pretty straight forward. Kebobs bring instant organization and accessibility to any display. Not to mention portion control!

8. All  You Can Eat

Everyone loves variety. Buffets provide plentiful options for even your most particular guests. 

​9. Light It  Up

There are so many options here. From candles or string lights to uplighting, adding light is a perfect way to set the mood. 

​10. Say Cheese

In this post smartphone world, where the selfie is king. No party is complete without a photo station. From a simple backdrop with homemade props to a tricked out professional booth, your guests are sure to be on their model behavior, with one of these on hand.

Follow these steps and plan your next party like a pro.
Thanks for tuning in. Talk to you soon!
​Mimi

Photo Credits:
Header, bestofneworleans.com 1. she-n-he.com 2. stylemepretty.com 3. letsparty.xyz/ twopeasandtheirpod.com/ figmentsstudio.com 4. howtodecorate.com 5. yegwed.com/ fomicrogreens.wordpress.com/ nourishedbynutrition.com/ apis.xogrp.com/ alexanevents.com 6. lzf-lamps.com 7. dessert-recipes.blogspot.sg 8. partyingredients.co.uk 9. cdn.evbuc.com/ rachelslookbeek.com/ blog.pegasuslighting.com 10. aliexpress.com