What's it take to be a hot holiday hostess? World-class party experts give us the insider scoop!
Pagination
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What makes a woman a great hostess? Imagination and a lively circle of friends help. So does a little spare cash -- although the best party givers will say that splashing money around is no insurance against a social flop.
When you think of some of the world's most dazzling party givers (the late Jacqueline Kennedy, the late New York socialite Nan Kempner, or style guru and accessory doyenne Kate Spade), what they all have in common is a love of drama. Knowing how to set a scene, how to cast the party with the right mix of guests and having large reserves of will and grace under pressure are pillars of social success. Want to throw the best parties in town? Then read the ELLE Canada holiday guide -- and party on!
It takes creativity and forethought to host a memorable event but the rewards are well worth it. For Spade, "Being gracious when you entertain is perhaps the greatest gift you can give your guests," she says in her etiquette guide Occasions.
The key to success is planning and doing as much as you can in advance. First, you'll need to decide what type of event you're going to have. (Brunch? Cock-tail party? Posh dinner?) Then, consider who you're going to invite. "The right mix is everything," say New York party planners Lara Shriftman and Elizabeth Harrison in their guide to creative entertaining, Fête Accompli. "Think about whipping up the perfect personality cocktail."
Invite guests with different occupations, interests -- even characteristics. But do keep in mind what personality researchers have discovered: people's "personalities" are not fixed but context dependent. The shy and quiet marketing manager you invited for brunch might become a fiery extrovert when she's outside the office. So mix your "guest cocktail" with care and, like a good Girl Scout, be prepared for surprises!
Photo courtesy of Le Chateau
