Bring on the party surprises
An expert suggests how to host a successful event in your home during the summer holidays, from cranberry and champagne jelly to the booze and invites, and all within a budget that won’t break the bank
T IS December and there is no need to schedule a party because it is happening all around us.
But should you, like myself, enjoy spoiling the people in your life, throwing a party – with lovely sunny days and an upbeat feeling in the air – is ideal.
We tracked down a top expert in the events game to show us how to do it – and on a budget. Let the party begin.
IFlowers in jelly Every child from six to 60 loves jelly, so this summer we’re wobbling it in feminine fashion. How about cranberry and champagne flavoured jelly poised in cute jars with edible flowers lurking in the sublime surprise?
Pineapples as vases Elegantly hollowed pineapples bursting with bright summer blooms are a perfect and fun spin on a vase.
Paw paw boats We are seriously crushing over our paw paw boats packed with fresh summer fruit. Good fun and healthy. Did I mention they are totally Instagram-worthy? Botanical ice Embellish cocktails for a simmering summer evening with fruit-filled ice cubes and fresh flowers foraged from your garden.
Palm-leaf place mats Tired of usual tablecloths? Switch this up and try a more tropical, organic feel with palm or other monster leaves as place mats, staying trendy with all things botanical, floral, bright and bold for the holiday season.
And now the nitty-gritty:
First and foremost, figure out your budget How much do you want to spend? Tot up everything, then decide what has to go. Worst-case scenario: Slash the guest list to only nearest and dearest.
Think: No venue charges Every Christmas many end-of year functions fizz at saucy spots, but at a premium. Jazz up your humble (even not-so) abode and save a small fortune. Ask a teen family member to play bartender, or even a few, and help with cleanup.
Timing is everything A sit-down dinner costs plenty. Instead do sundowners to take heat off the pocket. Do bite-sized foods – one hot treat; perhaps a basket(s) of breads plus plates of delights such as crunchy crudités with heavenly hummus.
Go paperless Do digital invites, then create an online guest list to monitor responses. You can also specify when the fun begins and ends so you don’t get stuck with lingerers until 3am. Be specific about what to wear andwhat’s plotting, and make it clear about partners or “bringing along a friend(s)”.
Don’t go the full Monty Filling a bar is pricey. Instead, buy a variety of fancy non-alcohol spritzers, thus allowing guests to top up from their own bottles. By all means provide wine and beers, but if your budget is tight ensure guests know it’s a Bring Your Own Booze evening.
Decorate Appropriate music, interesting drinks and delicious snacks have just about got you buzzing, but don’t forget your final decor. Safely positioned candles, floral fancies, brown paper on walls with crayons provided for guests to leave fun messages, strings of lights – anything to set the mood.
Accept help If friends ask what to bring, “your presence is a present
“is the wrong answer. For the wine, try “a bottle of what you fancy will be great,” and for wine or spirits, “I will be providing great mixers”. If you have a herb-growing guest, ask them to contribute to the botanical vibe.
We are loving florals and fruits in whimsical ways this summer, and this is how you can do it. GENEVIEVE FARRY, destination wedding planner and events manager at Vicky Crease Catering + Events