Summer brings a lot of BYOB parties (and BYOFood too). That is fine with me. I think that family reunions are the perfect opportunity to taste Aunt Cissy’s potato salad, and take home some leftovers and some recipes. But, I don’t know if it is the economy, as it seems that lately some hosts are just waiting for the food and drink to arrive in order to “host” a party. I have gone to some recent events where there is a bowl of tortilla chips, some store-bought salsa, plastic water bottles, one bottle of wine, and four bottles of Coke (what a variety!).
It seems that with all of the tips and information on throwing a party out there on the web, in magazines, and on tv shows devoted to party planning, that all of us would throw better parties. But, it isn’t happening. It’s time for some tough love. I’m going to give you a few basics to have an inexpensive and better planned party this summer.
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Mix it up with some great characters and a tasty fresh fruit-infused drink. Silhouette Little plates and Number glassware by Christopher Jagmin Design.
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Have a plan. If you schedule the flow of your party, your life will be easier as a host. Let the guests know when to arrive, when dinner and/or drinks will be served, and whatever else happens should be thought out. Is there a toast, dancing, or a game to play? People like to know if there is a cake for a birthday, or anything that is going to be missed. If they don’t know, they will start to leave. Or, is that your plan?
Don’t feel obligated to invite everyone you know. The best parties are small. Eight, maybe twelve people is best. As the host, you will be able to control the flow, and mood of the evening a little better. And, the food will be warmer, and a lot better. You’ll also save lots of money, and probably get invites to other parties!
I can’t believe that I have to say this, but please don’t invite people with a text. Of course, a written note is the best, and if you are inviting a large group, an evite is okay. Just remember that not everyone will answer these until the last minute, if they even bother. So, if you really want to know who is coming, send them a note, or give everyone a call. Here is a fun invite (or menu card) that you can send out*. You will need a stamp, an A-4 envelope, and some information to send. This little step will make your guest feel special, and will be more likely to send back an email or phone rsvp. And, if you are having them bring, you can see what they are coming with, and maybe sway them in another way.
Have some music! If you can’t hire a small combo to entertain your guests, set the tone with a nice music mix, and don’t just turn on the radio! Think about the mood, and for a summer party load up the the ipod with some Beach Boys, The Ventures, The Ravonettes, or a little Beach House. And, as the evening gets going, put on some dance music, then slow it down as you want people to leave. And, don’t forget the candles (votives are very inexpensive) when it gets dark!
Flowers. Flowers. Flowers. Buy some flowers at Costco, or cut some wildflowers from the yard. Cut them short and put a few in little vases around the patio or the food table. Or, buy some potted plants that you are planning to grow in your garden. You don’t have to have a huge centerpiece for drama. No one is going to be talking about the flowers (unless you’re a florist!), but, it is a nice touch. Cut them shorter as the evening comes to a close, and give them as parting gifts with a little twine wrapped around them for an extra special touch.
Use real stuff! If you have up to ten or so people, serve them real wine glasses, real porcelain plates, and some silverware. It makes people feel special. Another red Solo cup! Really? Sure, you’ll have to use your dishwasher twice, but it a little nice touch can turn your bbq into one that Bobby Flay would enjoy! A tip: use small appetizer plates so people pace themselves around the food, and do not act like little piglets.
Cover your food. Duh, right? But, I see this all of the time; food sitting outside while flies are buzzing around. It doesn’t look appetizing. Buy some clear covers, or just buy some cheap, small rattan baskets tipped upside down to use as food covers. If all else fails, put everything inside, or after everyone looks sated, put the remaining food on a nice platter and pass around to the guests. If everyone is done, put it away. Quickly!
Basic foods to have for appetizers: If you are having dinner or having people bring over food, have some appetizers. That is the hosts’ job. It is easy, and can set the tone of the party. They don’t have to cost much either. Be sure to buy things that you will eat at another time, and won’t go bad.
Buy some nice olives, French bread, various cheeses, salami, bean dips (mix black, white, or lima beans with olive oil, a little salt, pepper, and some basil or cilantro in a food processor… easy!), crackers, little cookies, and sliced seasonal fruit. Cut everything up in very small portions. All of these fulfill your guest’s salty, and sweet desires, and will get them filled up quickly. Keep the drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) coming.
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Don’t forget the drinks.
I’ve found myself fishing through some warm ice chests for a bottle of water at more than a few parties this summer. If I happen to find a bottle through the slog of Fanta Diet Root Beers and Coke Zeros, I know that in about twenty minutes, I will place the bottle down somewhere, and lose it. Is that mine over there?
There is a better way to serve water. And, it is much cheaper, greener, and tastier. In addition, I can bet that some of your guests will even prefer your water to another glass of wine or beer. So, you can save even more money and the environment with some water out of the faucet.
Some ideas to mix your water up. You will need a few pitchers, an infusion jar or punch bowl. If you throw a couple of parties a year, the pitchers will cost the same as those water bottles you’ve been buying. Then the rest is easy!
Flavorize your water. You’ve all had this at a restaurant or spa. Take a lemon, lime, orange, or other citrus, then just slice one (or half of an orange) of your selection, and place in a pitcher, and fill with water (about an inch from the top). Place the container overnight in the fridge, and serve the next day. It is all ready to go for your party! Just add ice right before your guests arrive.
If you want something other than citrus, try cucumber slices, fresh ginger root. You can also try some berries, or melon. Just remember that these fruits might make the water a slimy if in the water for too long.
Now, perk it up. Place a couple of mint leaves, rosemary leaves (rub them before putting them in the water for more flavor), or basil leaves with the water when mixing. If you are going for a sensation, try a cinnamon stick or sliced vanilla bean! You now have your signature water. Call it something like Summer Ade, Cucumber Refresher and your guests will think they are special.
Cut more than you will need to have ready when the pitcher run out. You might want to think organic for that fruit soaking in your water, or just wash your food thoroughly. And, make a few pitchers with different mixes for a great assortment. Soda will not be missed!
Make another signature drink. Now, for a more adult party; take some vodka and add some of the ingredients from above. Infuse them overnight, and buy lots of seltzer for a nice refreshing cooler. Don’t forget to name it for your own unique mix. People will remember that you went the extra mile. Ahhhh.
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Things to prepare the night before:
Get all the platters and dishes that you want to use on the ready. Put post its on them so you know what to do with them party day.
Set out some vases nearby for the guests that bring you flowers. And, don’t be shy, when you ask them to put them in your (on the ready) vase for you. Let them do some work.
Cut up lemons, limes, or whatever you will need for drinks, so they are ready to go.
Just remember that you are the host and your job is to make the guests feel special. Introduce everyone to each other, dote on them, and if all fails, get them drunk, and call them a taxi home!
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* I’ve given you two cards to use an invitation, menu, name card, or thank you card. Print them out on 8 1/2 x 11 inches sheet of paper. Trim and fold to make your card. Happy Summer!
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Happy 4th!
—chris
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