Sunday, September 6, 2009

Holiday Party Time

"Chiffon Love"

Can you believe it? You look up and in a blink of an eye it's time to plan for Halloween. And the next thing you know it's the Christmas holiday party season, and it's holiday party time again.

I know, I know. Don't go there, right? But the thing is, you deserve to know about this manifesto; to know what the trends are for party time fabric and decor. And actually, not only for the holiday season, but for anytime of the year.

Are you a "party chic" party-goer who attends a gazillion special celebrations and private parties every year? And after attending everything from fund-raising events to holiday parties, do you feel like you've seen it all?

If this is you - you've been to a lot of parties, so of course you've seen a lot of party decor.

You definitely know "beautiful" when you see it.

Here's what's up... The decor highlights for parties and special events in 2009 are fabrics like shredded chiffon for table linens, if you can find it. Shredded chiffon is seriously "progressive" and not available everywhere. Word on the street is that shredded chiffon might be available by "special order only", so good luck. I suggest you shop BBJ Linen. They're leaders in the finest and best in linen rentals. By the way, black and gold are the projected popular colors.

There's a certain spontaneous magic to parties, and it isn't mind-boggling. It's really pretty basic. My best advice is start simple, tailor your look in black - and add a sparkly element. You can tone down sparkly sequins (if you need to) for example, by draping a lot of fabric everywhere. Look fabulous. Be dramatic.

When it comes to the look of your party, add texture. Add a simple detail like feathered or faux fur table runners. You'll probably have to special order these items too. Standout from the crowd... Go for it! Choosing texture will add a special kind of signature-style (or "stamp", or touch) to the overall look of your party. And you hate being and looking like everyone else, right?

Come up with a complete party game-plan based on your own, personal style. Remember, if you want to stand out - shredded chiffon, feathers and fur will certainly do the trick. And what that means is, you'll stand out and "do you" from start to finish.

"Do you" when you hire your party time entertainment. You've been to a lot of parties and events. You've seen everything - from Vegas-style lounge singers to you-name-it. Unless the entertainment you're planning to hire is a big name music star; "Do you". Hire who you think is best. "Doing you", you can't go wrong! I love that.

And don't forget to think about giving your guests a parting gift. Give a gift pail. Dial back to the days of your childhood and leave your guests with something memorable in their party time gift pail. And trust me on this one... A trip to Restoration Hardware is definitely in order here. At Restoration Hardware you'll find the coolest retro items. If you visit one of their retail store locations you just may find some terrific, super inexpensive items - like a bag of marbles, or a ball and jacks. I don't know about you, but I forgot about playing with cat eye marbles as a kid. That is, until I saw the toys at Restoration Hardware. Talk about a flashback...

So plan your Christmas party time games early - like now. Also, start searching (now!) for who you'd like to hire for your party time entertainment.

Bottom Line: Create your own party time "party city".

Have fun and enjoy your special party time party production.
You know what the rules are. Have fun!

Remember, less is more, and a little can go a long way to make you shine.
And don't forget, Christmas will be here before you know it. Prepare early.

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