Here’s something to celebrate: A little planning can make your next party more fun and less work-there’s even a way to make it profitable. here are a few hints on how:
• Have a creative dress code or make the party black-tie formal.
• Think outside the dining room. Try drinks on the patio or dessert in the garden. The unexpectedness of an unlikely location can add flavor to the meal.
• Make interesting place cards by writing each guest’s name on a leaf, a cookie or a lottery ticket.
• Make your centerpiece unique. Use potted plants or a goldfish bowl. Cluster candles around it.
• Background music and ambient lighting help create an inviting setting.
• Keep party favors in the same theme as the rest of the party-such as seed packets for a garden party.
• Take advantage of conve-nience items such as pre-chopped vegetables or rotisserie chickens.
• To inspire conversation, give guests cards labeled with topics, such as “Favorite Vacation” or “Best Childhood Memory.”
• Make the house smell festive. I always put a few...