Party-planning tips to make a happy host

(BPT) - Every host knows the elements of a great party - fantastic food and beverages, just the right balance of sophistication and fun, and decor that speaks to the season and theme of your soiree. In the right combination, those ingredients ensure guests will have a great time. But what about your good time? Staging a party should be every bit as sweet for you as attending it is for your guests.



As your celebration plans rev up, follow these simple steps to ensure your party-prep is both fun and effortless:



* Go with what you know. Sure, sampling new dishes can be fun and you can introduce a few unfamiliar dishes to your party menu. But for sure-fire success, stick with what guests know and love - and do the familiar with flare. Familiar, traditional and simple are just fine, as long as what you're serving - hors d'oeuvres to dessert - is palate-pleasing.



* Plan one show-stopping experience for your party guests. Host a wine tasting event by pairing your favorite varietals with a selection of premium dark chocolates, like Lindt EXCELLENCE dark chocolate diamonds. Individually wrapped and available in four distinct flavors, these chocolates lend themselves to an array of wine pairings. Try serving Lindt EXCELLENCE A Touch of Sea Salt with a Pinot Noir or EXCELLENCE Intense Orange with a Chardonnay. -



* Make prep manageable. If you're rushing to do everything the night before or the day of the party, it's easy to feel overwhelmed - and make mistakes. Look for ways to minimize day-of prep, such as making and freezing a batch of appetizers the week before, or tackling house-cleaning bit by bit over the few days leading up to the event. The day before, take care of set-up by placing decorations and arranging furniture to facilitate conversation and a clear path to the food table.



* End the evening on a high note. Give your guests something to savor and enjoy on the way home by offering each a parting favor. Individually wrapped treats such as the premium Lindt EXCELLENCE chocolate diamonds say "sophistication" and "'til we meet again" far better than a hasty hug at the door. Consider placing the individually wrapped chocolate in small mesh bags tied with colored silk ribbons. Place the bags on a decorative tray by the door at the end of your night to ensure that every guest leaves your party with a memorable token.



Celebrations should be fun for everyone - the hosts as well as the guests. You can maximize your party enjoyment and create a memorable event for guests by keeping things simple, planning ahead and serving familiar favorites with flare and fun.



Courtesy of BPT