subject: What You Need For A Good Party: From Tabletop Accessories to Hors d 'Oeuvres [print this page] What You Need For A Good Party: From Tabletop Accessories to Hors d 'Oeuvres
Having a fun party isn't too hard. There are a few items that you should have, as well as some other ingredients which can be a tad trickier to measure. 1. Beverage Dispensers: Depending on the party, a beverage dispenser for lemonade, wine carafe for bourdeaux, or whiskey decanters for bourbon are all great ideas. They allow people to have access to drinks without worry. And since it's self-serve, you aren't running back and forth playing host.2. Glass Cake Stand: Nothing makes a birthday party like a cake. And unless it's an ice cream cake, there's no need to have it sit in the fridge. Let it thaw so everyone can see it in a beautiful glass cake stand. It builds the excitement for dessert.3. Music: Unfortunately, this is one of the trickier ones. Your private CD collection may not be the best option for a party, so why not throw on one an internet station? Choose a funky band like the Talking Heads or Arcade Fire and allow the computer to play DJ. Pandora is a popular radio station and although they have commercials every few songs, they can be trusted to keep the party going. 4. Guests: It is important to invite people who you think will be able to easily mingle. For example, don't invite ex-husbands if you've invited their ex-wives. Think about the similarities (and differences) between work colleagues, college friends, and neighbors. Is it really a good idea to invite all of them together? 5. Appetizers: A cheese plate is a must-have. Always choose a soft cheese and a hard one, with a third kind of cheese you wouldn't normally choose. Other ideas are goat cheese filled endive, salmon spread or lox with cream cheese on water crackers, duck pate or heck, even Norwegian meatballs. 6. Decorations: If there is a theme to your party, which there should be because themed parties are just more fun, don't be afraid to decorate. Balloons, streamers, lights, and colored plates and napkins can reinforce the vibe and make it more enjoyable for all. 7. Be a Host: Enjoy all the gifts for host, and put them out if acceptable. If your friends bring a bottle of wine, don't worry about putting it in a wine carafe (unless you can tell it's really good). Introduce people, smile, don't stress, and be happy. If you're having a good time, everyone else will too. And don't over clean before the party. You can do that after everyone's gone. Have fun!
