Getting party logistics right can be a stressful business – especially during the holiday season, when you have thousands of festive tasks to tick off your to-do lists. We asked party planners Kat Lau and Gina Hernandez of Bespoke Parties for their expert tips on how to ensure that your Christmas get-together goes without a hitch.
What makes a great party host?
A great party host is someone who is present and able to enjoy their guests’ company without having their attention divided. There’s nothing more stressful than not being able to enjoy the party you planned.
What is the key factor in planning a fantastic party?
Be meticulous with your planning by making lists and setting realistic deadlines. A good rule of thumb is to have all non-perishable items prepared at least a week in advance; for perishables like food and flowers, aim for around one to two days in advance, depending on their longevity. If there are dishes that can be made ahead and refrigerated, do that the day before; if possible, set your table the evening before with linens, flatware, glasses and place cards.
What are some of your favourite places for purchasing Christmas decorations?
Sham Shui Po is an excellent place to find beautiful and affordable linens, embellishments and seasonal décor items. The key to a successful trip is patience, imagination, a good eye and excellent walking shoes! Also check out the hardware stores outside Wan Chai MTR exit B1 for chalkboard and metallic spray paints that add DIY touches to your décor.
How do you make sure guests RSVP to your party?
We recommend Paperless Post and Evite for e-invitations, or Minted for printed ones. Be specific about when you need the RSVP by, and set that date for at least two weeks before your party. Gently follow up with guests who haven’t replied two to three days before your RSVP date.
What are the most common things people forget when planning a party?
Remembering to ask if their guests have food allergies. Also, buying flowers in advance, as they tend to wilt quickly in a warm room. If you want to make your floral arrangements the day before, add some sugar to the water and keep the flowers in a nice cool room with the air-con on and door ajar to ensure they stay fresh.
Do you have any tips on seating arrangements to guarantee a great atmosphere?
It’s always a good idea to map out where your guests will be seated – a good seating plan ensures excellent conversation, making for a memorable evening. Have some icebreaker elements at the table, like DIY Christmas crackers where you can include interesting Did you know… facts about your guests inside, then take turns in guessing who they’re about. We like the DIY crackers that can be found at Bookazine.
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