Smart Solutions: Make party memories with the extra touches
Parties and events that feature a theme or activities can make the experience more memorable for guests. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your entertaining.
A few months back, my friend, who happens to be the ultimate hostess, had a small gathering to celebrate a milestone birthday for her husband. The fact that their two oldest daughters who live out of state surprised their dad for his special day would have been enough for him, but a hot sauce contest took the festivities to another level. While I did not participate since I have a low tolerance for condiments with a kick, the entertainment value was priceless. Mexican food and an ornate cake would complete the weekday evening. When I told my friend how much fun we had, she said: “Not bad for a Tuesday night, right?”
More recently, my daughter went to a 2010s party where guests dressed for that decade. Since moustaches were a popular motif back then for clothing and accessories, she and her friends drew them on their index fingers to place on their faces for photos.
When we went to visit her for a special ceremony at her college in April, her sorority had a floral arranging event for families that was really well done (gourmet cookies were included). The coordinators filled a table with various stems arranged by color and type for attendees to make their own bouquets and wrap them in paper. We put her selections in Mason jars at her apartment.
This idea could work just as well in a residential setting. When I mentioned the concept to a local flower shop owner upon our return, she told me they often supply blooms for parties where guests can wrap them in paper or fill a box or a vase.
Lastly, I had been looking forward to a recent cooking party that did not disappoint. The fact that guests did not have to participate made me appreciate the experience even more. A Thai food theme featured tasty appetizers and sauces followed by spring rolls wrapped in rice paper that revealed their colorful ingredients when cut in half for a pleasing presentation. The main entrée included several stir fry variations served with rice. Then came a delicious dessert for the final touch.
Even though I chose not to participate in the meal prep, I still learned some tips about knives and cutting skills as well as rice cookers, air fryers and more. The hostess, who loves to entertain, had distinctive dishes and bowls that added to the pretty visuals and the inspiration. Her freshly renovated home has an open layout that offers an ideal setup for a dinner party and her kitchen would be perfect for a cooking show. We all agreed to do an Italian theme next time with the same person who prepared the Thai recipes.
As my calendar fills up with spring and summer celebrations, I feel inspired to pick a theme or plan some activities for my next get-together. This can take any special occasion to the next level and might encourage others to do the same.
Jeanine Matlow is a Metro Detroit interior decorator turned freelance writer specializing in stories about interior design. You can reach her atjeaninematlow@earthlink.net.