Life Of The Party

A Punch of Fun

Signature drinks are always a great way to underscore the mood of an event and include an individualized element. But how about adding a twist by offering a signature punch instead? While the rainbow sherbet variety rose to fame in the 1980s, there are now hundreds of unique recipes to choose from. There are so many, in fact, that it’s easy to find a punch that can play into your gathering’s theme or has specific kinds of alcohol or fruit flavors. One of the advantages to punch is that it can be prepared in large batches ahead of time. It’s also a nice mocktail alternative for nondrinkers. Or blend the best of both worlds by making the punch nonalcoholic and offering instructions—alongside a bottle of liquor and a jigger—for how to spike it if desired.

Photo Credit 8 Oak Lane

Destination Vibe

The choice of a soundtrack for your fete speaks to its overall mood and energy, so consider taking partygoers on a trip to an exciting destination. More and more hotels are making signature playlists on Spotify. Just as these tracks create the experience for visitors while on property, they can also transport listeners to a luxury vacation frame of mind. Jet off to far-flung destinations like the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach or Iceland’s Hótel Rangá, or maybe leave the passport at home with domestic destinations like the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Los Angeles-Beverly Hills.

Get Intimate

Save the big, thunderous dinner parties with a sprawling guest list and multiple tables for family reunions and weddings.
A great way to deliver a delightful get-together is to scale back the number of people included and spend time truly allowing attendees to interact. This starts with the table. Keep everyone at one table—even if it is two tables pushed together to give the illusion of one long table. Also trending is the use of narrow tables. Remember: the greater the physical distance across a table from one guest to another, the harder it is to establish a connection emotionally. Try to avoid large round tables or anything that requires you to shout so that those on the other side can hear you.

Hardwood flooring throughout open main floor with dining and kitchen nearby

Game Changers

While you don’t have to pull out Twister, consider a conversation icebreaker. Tabletopics Dinner Party has 135 question cards with fun queries like: “If you could name the street you live on, what would you call it?” and “What movie made you laugh until you cried?” You can write a question on the back of guests’ place cards, or pass the box around and let each person pick.

Organic Chemistry

While flowers always get the job done in terms of beauty, try a new formula for your centerpieces. Sustainable centerpieces are not only a green choice, but they help you avoid the somewhat depressing experience of watching floral arrangements droop in subsequent days. Thoughtfully curated terrariums or succulent gardens add an unexpected element to your table, and when the revelers leave, you can give the garden a second life in your house. Or, if you are feeling especially generous, create or purchase many small glass terrarium arrangements and let guests take one home with them as a fun favor.