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Holiday Articles (21)

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Most recent posting below. See other articles in the column to the right.

Entertaining for the Holidays

November 02, 2005 By Emily Matticoli

Entertaining for the holidays…and for any special occasion is exciting, and important in all networks of families and friends. Whether you are planning a party that involves age old traditions – recipes and customs – or hosting a stylish social get together, certain factors are integral to successful party planning. The easiest route to hosting a party, of course, is to call a caterer or party planner; you can trust the professionals to cover all of the important details with you.

An enjoyable, memorable event is one that involves a successful combination of: venue, ambiance, food, spirits, and service. The first decision in party planning is usually where to invite your family/friends to get together for a good time. If your choice is to open your home for the special occasion, be sure that you consider the number of people who can comfortably fit in the rooms of your house, consider seating, and know that it is possible to rent both tables and chairs if necessary. If you are considering hosting a party outside of your home, look into local clubhouses, outdoor parks, or other unique local venues. Township websites, or historical societies are great routes to finding an impressive site. Tented events are a wonderful option, at any time of year. Elegant, spacious tents can be rented (or arranged through your caterer), heated, and set-up with lighting.

Another step in planning your party is choosing a menu. You can trust that your caterer has a variety of well-tested and extensively perfected menus for all occasions. Consider the time of day, occasion, and guest list when planning a menu. If you are an experienced host, and willing to work while your guests are socializing, you can plan on preparing the food, setting up, and cleaning up. A tip from the professionals: plan a menu with which you are experienced, one that is versatile, accommodating to various tastes, and includes foods that present nicely. Or, when panning your menu, call a caterer and consider it done! Full service catering involves menu planning, service staff, chefs, platters, garnish, and easy set-up/clean up. If you are planning to offer liquor at your event, consider a liquor store that delivers, they can also provide ice, and beer tubs. And usually, they will pick-up and credit you for any unopened alcohol that isn’t used. Remember that a party with a bar must also offer an ample menu, try asking your liquor provider to recommend wines to serve based on your party menu.

Moreover, hosting a party is a challenge – one that involves patience, a sense of humor, and eventual rewards. Set reasonable goals for yourself, and admit when you need to call in the professionals for a little bit (or a lot) of help. It’s never too early to start planning, and it’s never too late to pull together an incredible, memorable event!

-Emily Matticoli
Owner – Emily’s Café

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