party etiquette

Summer is slowly (almost too slowly for comfort) taking a bow and bidding us adieu till next year. This is the perfect time to plan that casual BBQ with close friends and family you've been wanting to put together. Too comlicated, you say? We're not all Martha Stewart or Colin Cowie. Maybe you don’t even aspire to be, but a few secret recipes and well-placed items will make even the most impromptu party look Pinterest-worthy. 

 

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First realize word BBQ conjures up images of backyards, shorts, and paper plates. BBQs are meant to be relaxed- so, relax! With that last exhale out of the way...

Perhaps it has been ingrained into you that a good hostess does not ask her guests to bring anything. Throw that thinking out the window for last minute parties with close friends. When a guest asks, “What can I bring?” Don’t say, “Whatever you want,” or you will end up with ten pounds of potato salad. It's okay to assign tasks! Asking people to bring something usually encourages them to 1) come 2) come on time and  3) show off their culinary skills. But also know your guests! If you have a friend that is notoriously late, don’t assign them to burger duty, but instead ask them to bring a dessert. 

After you've assigned the tasks you feel comfortable delegating to a friend, cover your bases. Make sure that you have plates, napkins, utensils, propane, coals, etc. And of course, take care of any loose ends in the food department. BBQs tend to have five main food categories: appetizers, main dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks.

    These are some of my favorites in each category:

    Appetizers- Think refreshing fruit, chips, and dip. I think `       blue corn tortilla chips with pineapple salsa from Trader            Joe's are a great combination and sure to be a hit. 

    Main Dishes- There are so many options when grilling.            Burgers and steaks are classics, but grilled veggies,                chicken for a taco bar or pulled pork sandwiches also make     delicious main dishes.

    Sides-These are usually the simplest to delegate. The            traditional macaroni salad, potato salad, or coleslaw are        always a hit. Green and fruit salads are both refreshing and     perfect for the calorie-conscious.

    Desserts- Another dish easily delegated, dessert is                everyone's favorite and can be as easy or complicated             as you'd like. You can simply pick up ice cream and cake,        or get creative with s'mores- also easily grilled!

    Drinks: Beyond water, lemonade, and beer, try                        experimenting with Sangria and fun mixed drinks! 

If all else fails, treat your guests to this Chili Lime Corn, and you will be a queen among hostesses. But, really. 

Now relax with your guests and enjoy!

XOXO,

Maryann B. 

My name is Maggie and I am a bona fide party girl. I like to throw parties and I like to go to parties. Big parties, small parties, it doesn’t matter. As far as I’m concerned, there is always a reason to celebrate something, and this is my version of Party Etiquette 101.5. 

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I could write scads on party-goer etiquette, from which fork to use and how to properly pass the salt and pepper (I know, who knew there was a proper way to pass salt and pepper?!). I’ll just stick to the basics and what I find most important, from the instant you receive that highly-coveted invitation, to the day after the party, when you are updating your Facebook page with pictures. Show your appreciation and gratitude towards your fabulous hostess with these three simple tips!

Pre-Party

Always RSVP! This is so important. Yes, you may be holding out for that important invite to the Queen’s ball, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. When someone sends you an invite, e-vite, or Facebook event notice, responde si vous plait. There’s nothing worse than having unexpected guests. It can get really awkward when there are not enough chairs, dance partners, or…gasp…food! Even at an event without place settings, your hostess would like to have numbers. Don’t leave her wondering if she should book the dance hall or keep it at her home. Let’s keep our good names and reputations on those guest lists by being courteous and RSVP’ing.

Party Day

Bring a hostess gift of flowers, a bottle of vino, or a pineapple (the international symbol of hospitality).  It does not have to be expensive and over the top.  It’s a small token of appreciation that says, “Thank you for inviting me to your party. I appreciate all of your hard work to make our time here enjoyable.” As someone who has been on the receiving end of a hostess gift, let me tell ya, it’s amazing! 

After Party

Write a thank you note. Thank the hostess for her hospitality and inviting you into her home or wherever the party was held. Keep the positive vibes of the party going. There is nothing better than getting a personal, hand-written note in the mail, as opposed to another stinkin’ bill or junk mail.  It takes 2 minutes out of your busy and important day.  One act of kindness deserves another and besides, it’s good for your health.  Yes, I read that somewhere.

So there you have it!  Party etiquette 101.5…Now conquer the world, you classy people, you.

XOXO

Maggie H.