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 Party planning is about friends, loved ones, atmosphere, themes and
decor....and sometimes, a great party is
all about the food!
As
the host, RELAX. Nothing exceptional is expected of you but to be
yourself. Be flexible and spontaneous, prepared to improvise and most
importantly...have fun!
FIRST THINGS FIRST
When party planning there are a few things to consider when making decisions on your menu.
No matter the event, large or small, consider how each of the following might effect your party menu planning choices.
The People
Who are they?
Are they stuck on simple home cooking or are they accustomed to fresh and
dramatic gourmet cuisine? If they are your regular crowd, they may expect your "house specialty".
If they are open to
experimentation you will probably choose something new and different each time you entertain this adventurous group.
Make sure to check if anyone has allergies or is a strict vegetarian or vegan.
You may want to prepare appropriate dishes or just plan to do that anyway.
The Purpose
Is the party a baby shower
luncheon for your best friend?
Then you might serve all "baby" foods like baby greens, baby artichokes, baby back
ribs---you get the idea. An adult pajama party or a bachelorette party may be the time for "sexy" foods like
oysters on the half shell, avocado
and lobster salad and dark chocolate mousse. A dinner party for you or your husbands' new boss may require
gourmet delicacies and stylish presentation.
The Place
I always think a party in your home or apartment is cozier and nicer then anywhere else, as long as your guests are
comfortable. Of course an extra special occasion may call for an original or unusual location. In your
home kitchen
you must consider:
-
Number and size of the cooking burners on your stove
-
Available counter
and drop space
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Space for final set-up of dishes BEFORE they get to
the buffet
or dinner table
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Available mingling room for your guests (which may subtract from your food
space)
The Time
As a rule of thumb, people prefer lighter foods and will eat less at breakfast, brunch and lunch then at dinner time.
If you are having a dinner buffet make sure you serve the main course at a reasonable time to avoid hungry
unruly guests. A late night soiree may be the perfect time for a cocktail party and to pull put out your
easy appetizer recipes.
The Budget
When party planning, figure out how much you can afford and how much you would like to spend.
Try to land somewhere in the middle of these two numbers. That way you won't feel like a cheapskate and you also won't feel like you're breaking the bank.
Of course be aware that when throwing a party there will be
expenses other than food, such as disposable paper goods, decorations and rentals.
Don't forget the alcohol which could be your greatest expense
(depending on the kind of friends you have)
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More Party Planning
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Recipes for Large Crowds
Fun
Birthday Party Ideas
has tasty desserts, party recipes, and
unique birthday cake ideas for your next birthday party or special
occasion
Space
challenged?
Throw an intimate dinner party with dishes
that are easy to prepare and that do not require many platters or serving
pieces. One pot dishes with a simple
salad are great, like
Baked Ziti with Tomatoes, Basil and
Cheese
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