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The
ART of the PARTY Photography courtesy of Don Strange of Texas
Who doesn’t love a party? If you are a seasoned host or new to home entertaining, it helps to have a plan and a few guidelines to consider. Di-Anna Arias has been planning events for 35 years as the Vice President of Sales and Culinary Vision for Don Strange of Texas. Over the years, she has had the pleasure of coordinating events for 50 to 30,000 guests at a time, including a Presidential Dinner at the White House, Texas Gubernatorial Balls, the 150th anniversary celebration of the King Ranch and over 30 Cattle Baron’s Balls across Texas, just to name a few. She also serves on several non-profit boards, both personally and professionally. So, while her professional life includes elaborate event planning for the well-known caterer, she doesn’t tire of home entertaining. Di-Anna provided a few of her essential entertaining tips that she finds beneficial as an event planner or when planning her own personal parties. • PREPARE A WELL-THOUGHT-OUT INVITATION (even if it’s sent via email). It sets the tone for an event. Include any expectations such as “cocktail attire” or “coat and tie” or “coastal fun,” so that your guests are prepared and feel comfortable upon arrival. Remember: Timing is everything when sending invitations. Providing advance notice allows guests to accommodate any special requests. Always send all invitations at the same time so no one feels like an afterthought. • CREATE SEATING OR STANDING AREAS THAT ENCOURAGE INSTANT CAMARADERIE. Examples include lounge furniture, stand-up cocktail tables and benches around 22 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
a fire pit or fire place. Organizing comfortable furniture groupings provides the setting for conversation. • PERSONAL EXPRESSION IS A MAJOR PART OF ENTERTAINING. Make it your own! Mix that flatware; repurpose a collection of cool bracelets for napkin rings; layer tablecloths; use all purple and orange flowers or go monochromatic if that is what you prefer. Always add that dash of individuality and personality to your entertaining. • MAKE A PLAYLIST. Music can make or break a party, and it’s also another way to enforce your theme. • TABLE SETTINGS ARE IMPORTANT. Whether your event is formal, informal or backyard casual, consider the basic place setting guidelines and provide exactly what your guests will require for their meal. Giving attention to your table furthers your party theme and makes guests feel special and welcome. • CENTERPIECES SHOULD BE LOWER THAN 13 INCHES AS TO NOT IMPEDE EYE CONTACT AND CONVERSATION. In a world of technology where we are glued to a screen, it’s
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020
