How to Throw a Fabulous Party

Playing hostess to at your own soiree can be thrilling. Whether it's a celebration or simply just an opportunity to have a good time, careful planning can help you pull of an envy worthy bash that will be on everyone's minds for years to come. When I hosted my fabulous Superbowl party several years ago, the vibe was so good no one wanted to go home! Here's a few tips to make your next bash a success:


1. Select a Theme. Do you want a summer social, a backyard country fete, a glitz and glamorous cocktail party, or sexy salsa themed bash? Having a theme can help you with selecting music, food, and drinks. Make your theme fun and exciting or center it around an event like the Oscars, or a movie premiere. For decor, unless it's a huge theme party, keep it simple. A few accent lights or candles can set a mood better than any old balloon can.

2. Invite 50 of the most fabulous people you know. Guests are the key to your party success. The right mix of people can turn a room into an event, so be sure to mix it up. A great party is like a salad, just plain lettuce is boring, throw in some cucumbers, tomatoes, and cheese, and you've got a meal! Call or email your guests if your party is impromptu. Word of mouth is the best PR no money can buy!

3. Create Your Playlist. Thank God for I-pods. Thanks to the folks at Apple, we can now create playlists that go on forever for just about any event. Whether your playlist is soul, pop, rock, Latin, or R&B, keep the music light, upbeat, and continuous. Music always sets the mood.

4. Choose a signature drink. If you want to be extra special, create a concoction of your favorite liquor for your guests. Name if after you, name it after your mood, just be creative and keep the drinks flowing. If you plan to serve mixed drinks, be sure your bar is well-stocked, and well watched.

5. Keep the food light. It's a party after all, not a dinner (unless it is a dinner party), so give your guests something to nibble on but don't weigh them down with food. Choose light hors'deouvres and finger food that be consumed quickly.

6. Give yourself some space and keep it clean. Be sure your home has ample moving room. You want guests to be able to maneuver without bumping into something (bumping into someone is ok). Move any awkward furniture to allow guests to get to the bar and food areas. Place valuable houseware items in a locked bedroom to keep them from getting broken. Be sure your rest room is clean and has plenty of toilet paper and guest towels.

7. Know when to call it a night. Sometimes parties can last until the wee hours of the morning but if you would actually like to make it to bed, set a time for when your bash will end. Give guests a parting gift such as a gift bad or memento, and thank them for coming. Otherwise you may find some guests will never leave!

8. Enjoy yourself. It's a party after all. If you need help, ask your friends and family to play co-host. Be sure they know where everything is and keep them informed about what's going on. Establishing the rules beforehand will prevent problems. But don't forget to have a good time!

Planning a party isn't rocket science. It's all about the people, the drinks, the music, and the memories.