DON'T FORGET THIS!
As the host or hostess of any party, you are legally liable for how much
alcohol your guests consume. Don't serve strong drinks
and make sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages (including bottles of
water) for designated drivers. |
TIP #1
Set up your bar far enough away from your buffet table to avoid traffic
jams. Make sure there are lots of glasses,
plenty of ice cubes and several ice buckets and tongs. Keep extra ice cubes
in an cooler. Chill your juices and mixers ahead
of time.
TIP #2
Decanters makes an elegant presentation for wines. Red wines are best
decanted about an hour before drinking and white
wines should be served right away. If you don't have a decanter, fold a
napkin around the neck of the bottle to prevent drips.
Open about half of the wine bottles beforehand and then reinsert the corks
part way.
TIP #3
The buffet is usually set up on a large, easily approachable surface such as
a dining room table or long folding table(s). Use a
plastic sheet under a table cloth to protect your dining room table. Having
platters, casseroles, and serving dishes placed at
different heights creates a great look. This can be done with books, boxes
or pans and then cover and drape the table cloth
over the top. Just make sure the bases are solid so the food won't topple
over. A great centerpiece can make a table
exciting but should not be overpowering.
TIP #4
There is an order for a buffet -
stack plates, then utensils (only if necessary),
napkins, the entrees, side dishes, salads, bread, butter, and any
condiments.
TIP #5
Set up your coffee maker in advance plus sugar bowls, creamers, stirrers and
cups.
If you are using any kind of paper products make sure there is a place that
guests can discard their trash.
TIP #6
Send your guests home with a perfect party favor - their own champagne glass.
Purchase some inexpensive champagne flutes, fill
with little chocolate bottle liquors, wrap with cellophane or netting and
tie at the top with a shimmering ribbon.
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