Do you go to or have you personally hosted a lot of parties? Have you seen just about everything, where parties are concerned?
Producing parties coast-to-coast, I've traveled 300 miles (at least) between Los Angeles and Detroit.
Listen, I certainly don't know it all, but let's just say that compared to some caterers and event planners out there, I'm know no amateur.
Why? Besides having "seen-it-all" and "done-it-all", I'm still fascinated (and fortunately not burnt out) by everything pertaining to parties. Are you?
In L. A., the party scene of the 90's was like planning the Super Bowl everyday, almost. Imagine that. So, what's the difference in the party atmosphere between Los Angeles and Detroit?
They are miles apart, literally and figuratively.
In L.A., you have the Hollywood industry-chic people. You know the type;a cross between a character on Modern Family, Lauren Conrad, with a little Rachel Ray sprinkled on top. In Detroit, you have the winter tough people; the type who will roll their sleeves up, gladly helping you to move tables in order to accommodate more guests, who prefer less party pomp and circumstance, who threw away party-style fashion for practicality.
Which city has the best parties? You tell me.
I love them both; Los Angeles and Detroit, for different reasons of course. In either city (or anywhere, for that matter), if you staff well and you serve well, you win BIG.
When you get past the amenities, or lack thereof, people are pretty much the same. Everyone likes good service.
As the Cater-Hater, a professional caterer and party planner, I am extremely motivated to know that people in the party industry/hospitality industry - from up-and-comers, to established veterans - are continuing to break through economic boundaries everyday.
They're continuing to inspire, and empower their clients too.
This is happening in spite of the news that all of us are fed by the (media) prognosticators. Don't you love that?
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Here are answers to some questions about making great parties happen, anytime.
"No matter what the occasion, getting an early jump on your party plans can help you focus on your party and stay within your budget better." - Carlo/Carlo At Your Service Productions
Q I try to entertain, hosting at least one party a year. Can you recommend something that I can do, that can become my party signature style?
ASure. Speaking of "signature style"... Why not do this: Create a signature cocktail for your annual party. If you're not familiar with the various types of alcohol, you could always ask your favorite bartender to concoct something special, just for you. In fact, you might want to hire him/her to be your party bar mixologist at your next event.
QI work long hours, so my schedule is hectic to say the least. I'm often stuck, tying up loose party ends at the last minute, which drives me nuts. What's your solution?
AOf course, you're the first person to know the date of your party. Because this is true, get started 1 to 3 months in advance. I always plan and start my party 3 months early, when I entertain over 150 to 200 guests. It can be tough working on parties for other people and working on my own party at the same time. For smaller gatherings of 10 to 35 or 40, with a smaller menu, I like to give myself at least a month.
Starting early means getting good deals on "swag bag" (gift bag) items and certain foods and beverages, like bread crumbs and coffees. And because it's at my house and I don't mind looking at it, I set my buffet a week or two in advance. That way, I have plenty of time to tweak it - making necessary changes if I have to.
You plan it right and the day of the party, you're done. You have the free time to drink a glass of wine while lounging in a warm bath a couple of hours before your guests arrive. You go!
QI know I want to keep my guests out of my kitchen, yet without coming off as being rude. Can you recommend a trick or two that you use?
ASave steps and keep your guests out of your kitchen by being well organized, not asking them to help you with anything. And, by serving as many room temperature food items as possible, placing back-up food on platters on top of upside down milk crates that you carefully place underneath your buffet table, for example.
Another thing I do is, whenever I serve hot food, I always use chafing dishes on my buffet table - instead of serving food from pots and pans on the stove or in the oven, in my kitchen.
QI'm trying to modify my party menu so that it's healthier. Are there any foods you can recommend?
AAntioxidants help protect your cells from free radical damage. And, foods consisting of essential fatty acids, such as salmon, almonds, walnuts, and flax seed oil are good lubricants. Check out the articles listed in the "Other Related Articles" section below for more information.
Whether it's a fundraiser for the Democratic Party matters not. Nor does it matter whether it's at a museum, or under the stars at the Bing residence on a summer night. I'd love to do it, irregardless of the location.
I see it now. Clean lines. Simple. Elegant.
To me, that kind of unrelenting consistency - not to mention, polish - is a true mark of Dave Bing and Barack Obama Style. Hell, having been on previous party details with Nelson Mandela, President William H. Clinton, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, I think that I'd that I pass White House and mayoral security clearance.
Call me crazy, but I have unwavering faith that within the next six years, one day my phone will ring and this will actually happen.
I love rules. So, I liked all of the pre-party planning of the security procedures, parking constraints, and hush-hush, Top Secret secrecy that was involved. Because they weren't what everyone else had the chance to go through. Sure, rules are required.
Yet, more importantly, rules of mayoral and presidential decorum are true to what is necessary to keep them safe.
But over the past year or so, nationally, I've heard nothing much at all - except that Detroit is still in the crapper and "Carlo, you nut. You know no one at the White House." I know that Mayor Bing has been hard at work. This much I know is true.
I still have faith extraordinaire and pit bull tenacity that one day, I'll get my shot.
All you have to do is pray, and wait.
Sure, some may think this type of special event is out of my league. But, strange and wonderful, far-fetched things have already occurred. And, certainly not because it was a coincidence. There are no accidents in life. Just blessings. I'm a firm believer of that.
Faith blessings
I'm blessed. Aren't we blessed all the time? Because no matter what we're going through, it could always be worse.
I was truly fortunate to work for Mayor Bing, without having to compete with any other companies, without anyone checking my references, or asking to see my book (photos of my work). And, without anyone from his camp having any prior knowledge of me or my company. Go figure.
When I got the chance to speak with Bing about it, he said - "I just knew (you would do it well)". Some would call it, "kismet". Others might say that the stars and the planets aligned. I call it, blessings from God.
It was God's perfect time for me to receive the many great opportunities that have come my way.
I agreed to do the work. And, Carlo At Your Service Productions (CAYSP)did it. My little company (birthed in a makeshift office in my bedroom, in a one-bedroom apartment) was brand new then. And, I longed to produce an event like Bing's.
Somewhere in the future (when CAYSP looks much better than it does right now), I want to test-drive a new party cool, a different type of party business concept - driving it right onto the main highway of big business. It will echo all that you'd expect from the Carlo At Your Service Productions brand: luxury.
Never underestimate the so called "under dog".
Here's some good news for those caterers and party planners out there: love your doubters and your haters.
Because remember,the greatest feast you'll ever eat is in the presence of your enemies.
Now, back to telling you about some of my simple, presidential/mayoral party plans. My vision consists of an air of expensive subtly - my favorite event planning combination. I'm talking about something perfectly clean, wrapped in unhindered party-clean delicate lines. A shift away from ostentation will reveal a well-baked, understated seductive theme. I want to reduce "clean" to it's essence for this one.
Clean lines and smart details will rule; the simplicity of a dignitary's party. Done right, sophisticated purity is relatively attainable and can look really good - even on an average man's salary.
A good concept for the design style is all that you need to be ready for a party for a Mayor and a President. My idea for this party would flatter a Michigan summer night's breeze - emancipated by it's simplicity, designed to coax the sophistication right out of the tight reigns of the guests wallets (for a fundraiser) and their shells.
This event would evoke a type of "lightness"; one that wears a clean slate. Elegant Dave Bing and Obama-style will be my muse.
I'll accessorize the night by taking advantage of the environment.
Normal people won't "get" this and will think it's crazy. I envision this celebration to be different - an under the radar, by the time you heard about it it was an after-the-fact, fresh and distinctive event.
The whole evening, typical of me when I'm in "full court press" party mode, I won't think about what I'm wearing or eating - which isn't an amazing feat for a neurotic party planner like me, who only cares about pleasing my clients and getting each party right.
As usual, instead of worrying about my stuff, I'll let my work speak. I'll shoot for impeccable, but will settle for the good graces of doing a good job.
Presidential parties are the new black.
They're a delicate balance between a normal party and a party for VIPs. They're a metaphor for my party design philosophy, which is a true personal display of my work ethic; there's nothing too extreme, just the quiet beauty of getting the job done and being honored to do it.
And, in case Bing's people call me, I'll give them a subtle, refined and real answer.
A good party model is the best part about a party.
It's fun looking back to the time when well produced and thought out parties - as opposed to a last minute, thrown together get-together, private party or special event - graced the lives of your friends, family members, co-workers, and neighbors.
This bad economy sucks. How we miss those good party model days, don't we?
Today, we get more than enough information about what we can't afford. And, don't forget about their cautions of eating ill-born foods. They even said popcorn is bad for us, for goodness sake.
Enough already!
Can't parties be about the magic and good times we can make happen and not about promoting the fear of something?
I, for one, would love to see an end to the notion that a party is a want - but, instead a need. Because we need a little magic. We need a little fun.
Bring back more good party model behavior, please.
Oh, and Happy Valentine's Day to you, too.
Being an extrovert isn't only about the amount of social interaction that you have. Physical challenges can define being an extrovert also. Skydiving, taking skiing lessons, and mountain climbing are extroverted things to do.
All you have to do is gather together a few friends and incorporate something bold and physical into your party theme.
If it's in your budget, hire a caterer to concoct a "take flight" luncheon served at an airplane hangar.
Start with tray passed champagne, custom-designed signature event cocktails, and a nice selection of soft drinks along with a nice variety of tray passed hors d'oeuvres. Next, have your guests board helicopters, whisking them off to a special lunch at a unique location.
Now aren't you a top flight host or hostess?
Outdoor exercise can create a powerful effect on your mood, raising your spirits too. A party featuring an hour of tennis playing, for example, will get both extroverts and introverts juices flowing, according to the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness.
One thing is for sure, parties that are enjoyable social experiences, laced with something physically challenging make for your guests to be anything but bored.
Host a party that physically challenges your guests, and your guests will wonder what you'll plan next. Then, make it up to them with your next party, one that starts at a day spa.
Want to host a party that once again says you're outgoing, one that will leave your guests feeling a greater sense of happiness, self-worth, and personal control?
Then, do this - continue to be super extroverted by stepping out of the box and host a "Volunteer Party".
What's a "Volunteer Party"?
Instead of volunteering alone or hosting a run-of-the-mill ordinary type of party, invite your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to join you in assisting someone in need.
After volunteering, head back to your place for the second part of your party; for some delicious cuisine and tasty beverages.
I bet Habitat for Humanity or your local soup kitchen would love to add you and your guests names to their list. And, don't be surprised if you all feel a "helper's high" when you finish volunteering.
Be kind. Host a "Volunteer Party".
After volunteering, the mood of your giving should significantly enhance the attitudes of your guests. Doesn't it feel good to do something nice for someone besides your family and friends, by volunteering?
Think about making this (volunteering) theme of your party a bi-annual or annual party event. Or, pass your "volunteer party torch" to one of your friends. And, think about this. It's likely that there will be at least one person attending your volunteer party who has never volunteered before. What a great thing; to help expand their horizon.
Doesn't to feel good to share the gift of giving with people? Talk about exuding extrovert-ism. Wow!
Check this out. You're likely to be in a better mood when you engage with a total stranger at a party than with your own friends. Did you know this?
And, here's something else. When you're readying for a party or some other type of special event (or planning a wedding, for example), just thinking about the new people that you'll meet can begin to improve your mood.
Uh huh. The anticipation alone can be enough to lift any dreary spirit. Makes sense, don't you think?
Jump in! The water is warm.
Don't regret talking with any party guest that seems nice, interesting and fun. Because in the long run, we always regret things we didn't try. It's been said that we tend to inflate our social failures. Tell me what you think. Do you agree?
You have to remember that people, at socially stimulating parties especially, aren't paying as much attention to us as we think.
Ask a party guest, the day after attending a party, if they recall what someone wore. Unless it was in some way outrageous, they probably won't remember. So, don't be self-conscious. Remind yourself that party goers are there meeting people and are paying you less attention than you think they are.
The ultimate extroverted party guest isn't just a "Chatty Cathy" type. She's the type to also ask questions and tell people how she feels and what she wants in life.
Approaching a new person for conversation can be a fantastic rush, whether it's super interesting or not. Sharing your viewpoint as a small luncheon or dinner party can make you feel confident and empowered.
Do this. If you don't agree with another guests statement, very nicely say so. Or, try posing a question; it can feel good to draw someone who appears shy into a conversation - which also means you won't have to do much talking yourself.
If you find that your getting bored by someone, you can be the one to energize party banter by speaking up and offering a new topic of discussion for everyone.
Don't over think things.
When you isolate yourself, getting to know only two or three people at a party with many guess, think of it like this - you're limiting your potential to have fun. Brilliant outcomes can happen when you let your mental guard down.
Don't replay the last lousy party that you attended in your head. And, certainly don't fret about the future that you definitely can't see. Doing so, you stand the chance to bring yourself (and maybe others) down.
The obvious point of party guest extrovert-ism is to not over-think anything by being light-hearted and open. Snap out of being an introvert and focus your attention on another party guest. Parties should be a means of fun distraction and a great place to have conversations with new people.
Every party you attend offers a fresh perspective. Enjoy that.
Parties are a great way to derive an even wider network of friends.
Intentionally being extroverted, you're initiating and maintaining relationships. Better than parties, our greatest and most profound pleasures are in the life of people we meet.
Create certain rituals.
Have a monthly dinner party with friends, rotating it to a different persons home every month. Or, gather friends and family (preferably a small group) at one of your favorite restaurants two to four times a year to stay connected.
Start socializing online (who already isn't?), but don't stay there. Invite your new online friends from Facebook and Twitter to meet with each other in person. As much as social networking sites can be a nice social lubricant, they'll never take the place of face-to-face encounters in the real world.
Seeing an enthusiastic reaction and animated facial expressions is what it's all about.
Cater-Hater Tip: Log off. And, gather an online group together to go out.
Fake it until you make it.
If you have to force yourself to be energetic and talkative for as little as ten minutes, when you're at a party, it will improve your mood.
Smile darling. You'll feel happier afterward. It doesn't matter who you smile at - go up to and talk to them. You will both get mood boosts from your extroverted move. Forget what your mom said, at a party, talk to strangers. If you think about it, you're likely to smile without even realizing it; when you interact with someone you don't know.
When you act cheerful, you'll end up feeling that way.
Are you a party extrovert? Or, are you more of an introvert at a party?
You're an extrovert when you R.S.V. P. the parties that you're invited to, "Can't wait!"
Being that energetic, smiley type definitely makes you an extrovert and more than likely in a better mood than most people.
The writer, John Updike, said, "To be sane is, to some extent, to be sociable". So, embrace extrovert-ism.
Your attitude says everything.
At the next party you host or attend, go out of your way to see the good in everyone you meet and greet. Focus more on having fun than awkward silence. Dwell on the positive. Make a conscious effort to think optimistically. And, give and hold onto compliments.
Party hearty.
Having a healthy social life can cause you to live longer and be healthier because of the support that you'll receive.
Social engagement, by attending a party and having strong family relationships could be your link to lower levels of interleukin-6, a chemical associated with the increased inflammation that can sometimes cause and be a result of heart problems.
Being busy, by planning and hosting a party, or making the plans to attend a party, rank high in extrovert-ism. But, beware of risky party behaviors. People who are known to rank highest as extroverts have been known to be more likely to be hospitalized due to accidents or illnesses, in part due to thrill seeking.
Be curious.
Take a sincere interest in others and in exploring the environment of a party.
If nothing else, you'll grow and discover a new inner strength when you walk right into what might feel like a challenging, ambiguous situation. You don't have to drink the most or know everything in a conversation to get the benefit of curiosity about other party guests or the overall tone of the party in general. For starters, get out of your comfort zone by trying delicious cuisine or a tasty beverage that might be new to you. Then tell the person that you know the least your experience of it.
If you're the party host, make a party music play list filled with songs by new artists and music genres that you normally don't listen to. This should spark a curious conversation or two between you and your guests, breaking the ice and livening things up a bit.
Yes, this article really is about Galveston Island Tea. Yet, the moral of this Galveston Island Tea story: When you eat coon (if you're brave enough to eat it), be careful.
Being in the party business, as a caterer and event planner, I sometimes hear some interesting - if not freaky - stories. And, I just had to share this one with you.
But first, tell me something, please.
Who on earth wants to knowingly eat dog (meat)?
Get this. After someone that one of my cousin's knows ate his last serving of coon, he died. Rabies caused the fatal infection which led to his death. But I heard he was an old fart, anyway. I guess his weakened immune system didn't help. But you tell me, was it (eating coon) worth it?
Coon. Yuk.
Despite reminders of the health risks, some people won't be denied coon, or a strong drink to go with it for that matter. Most times, if you even try to stop an old guy from eating what he wants - well, you know he's going to do what he wants to do. So, strangely enough, this kind of thing can happen.
I thought about the old guy who died when I tried this Galveston Island Tea recipe.
It's a Long Island Iced Tea variation made with fresh key lime juice, which makes it less saccharine than the typical Long Island Iced Tea because of the fresh juice.
It makes for a better treat than coon, I'll tell you. And, it probably won't kill you - provided you limit how many you have. Here's the recipe. Enjoy!
I'm an off-premise catering evangelist/outlaw. I'm a passionista. I'm a paradox. I love when a client hires me to oversee their entire event, from start to finish - because I'm an event planner too.
I'm proud to be mom to Petey Wheatstraw, "the devil's son-in-law" - the best damn Chihuahua North of Mexico. I grew up in Rochester, Michigan. I currently live deep in the heart of Texas. And boy, do I ever miss Xochimilco Super Nachos, the fragrance of Fall and fresh cider and donuts at Paint Creek Cider Mill, and eating a Detroit Lafayette Coney Island when the mood hits me.
It's cool of you to stop by. And you know what's even better? Finding out what you have to say! Hit me up with a comment. Hang with me on Twitter . Or, connect with me using the FB gadget or G+ button on the sidebar. For real, I'd be really honored if you'd stop and give me a moment of your time - by clicking on either one.
If you want to ask me anything or want to leave a comment, you know the drill; "Contact".
I like people. Especially, people who want the party truth. Talk to me.
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Do you go to or have you personally hosted a lot of parties? Have you seen just about everything, where parties are concerned?
