End-of-Summer-Bash

Remember when you were a child and the warm, lazy days of summer would stretch out forever; thoughts of autumn and a new school year were so far down the road as to be practically invisible? So by the time school supplies started appearing on the shelves and the mannequins in store windows were sporting fall sweaters, corduroy jumpers and backpacks you were actually ready for summer to be over and excited to jump into fall. What happened? I could swear that Memorial Day was just a few weeks ago, I can still feel the sea-spray on my face from the Fourth of July sailing trip, and yet the end-of-summer holiday weekend approaches and for the life of me I can't remember where the summer went! In fact, I have decided that I am not ready to let go of summer just yet. The days are still warm and sunny and I would look totally silly in corduroy and fleece right now, not to mention that it does absolutely nothing for my gorgeous (healthy) tan. And so, in the spirit of celebrating all things summer (e.g. sandy beaches, sexy bare shoulders, ice cream trucks, dinner alfresco, sparkly flip flops, hot dogs from street vendors), I am going to host an all out end-of-summer-bash. Have been wanting to have a house-warming party (actually, just terrace-warming, since the rest of my charming little abode is still a work in progress) and with the combination of Labor Day weekend and Martha no longer under house arrest what better excuse? Time to dust off my hostessing skills, crack open Nigella and unpack the stack of boxes still sitting in the corner of my living room (will hopefully find ceramic party platters that have gone missing since my move).

The key to a great gathering, as any serious party-host will tell you, is planning. Although, I am constantly amazed at the ability of some people to throw together a fabulous soirée on the spur of the moment with seemingly little effort. I, on the other hand, must plan down to the smallest detail, making lists upon lists and checking them off as I go. Recall with chagrin the Soup and Salad Supper I hosted a few years ago when guests arrived bearing festive fragrant soaps in all shapes and sizes. (Note to self: proofread invitation carefully.)

Party Planning 101

• Invitations. Everyone loves receiving party invitations. They say "I am very popular and in great social demand" as well as look very turn-of-the-century/Gatsby-ish displayed on the fireplace mantle. Give friends plenty of notice. Also, it's always a good idea to include an R.S.V.P. so you can plan accordingly (no one wants to end up with a fridge full of left-over spinach dip and crab cakes).
• Party Wardrobe. While some might argue that this should be further down the list I beg to point out that by presenting a polished and pulled together look your guests will naturally assume that all else involved with said party will be on an even par with your stylish looks -- if you look chic, sparkling and sexy no one will notice that the Brie is from the local deli and not a fancy import shop. Parties are always an excuse to dress up, but since this isn't exactly the Academy Awards, I'm thinking this would be great paired with a knee-skimming skirt. Must take advantage of every opportunity to show off summer tan, which will look even better with fun, strappy sandals. Not to forget accessories; my new silver bracelet will be absolutely perfect. A pair of sexy sparkly dangles and I'm good to go.
• Food. Many determining factors involved here, from budget (both time and money) and season to size of oven and available refrigerator space. My advice is, if you are a great cook, go ahead and showcase your talents, but don't get too complicated and elaborate or you won't have time to attend to the 4 P's (proper personal party preparation) in order to make yourself pretty before the throngs start to arrive. If you are a mediocre cook (or perhaps even rival Peg Bundy) take advantage of the great ready-to-serve items available at the local deli. Personally, I will be doing a bit of both. Baked brie with apricot preserves, fresh figs drizzled with honey, veggie platter with dips, assorted yummy cheeses and other gourmet nibbles, fresh hot rolls and cinnamon-brown-sugar-glazed spiral ham all from the deli. The pièce de résistance is warm individual peach cobblers in ramekins with homemade french vanilla ice cream (one of the only items in my baking répetoire, but family folklore credits this mouthwatering dessert with more than one marriage proposal).
• Ambiance. Music - a must. Great tunes=great atmosphere=great party. Make several compilation CD's to play as background music for your party. If you are technologically-challenged (as am I) this is a great assignment for a friend (preferably male variety because it gives him the opportunity to impress you with his knowledge and prowess in all things hi tech). Be warned, however, that he will not stray far from the stereo for the entire evening; he will take great pride in his contribution to your gathering. Lighting: outdoors, citronella torches or hanging lanterns are perfect for when the summer sky starts to dim and for keeping the bugs at bay. Or string tiny white lights in a few trees. Be sure to illuminate any steps or steep paths - luminaries do a great job as well as add to the atmosphere. Indoors, focus on mood lighting with floor and table lamps set on low, and scented candles placed about the room.
• Details, details. Make sure you have plenty of ice, cocktail and dinner napkins, and assorted beverages (especially bottled water) on hand. A great way to serve bottled beverages is to put them in galvanized tin tubs filled with crushed ice. No need to have perfectly matching plates, dinnerware and table linens. Mix and match colors and patterns. Or use fun disposable plates, cups and utensils from a party supply store. Have colorful ceramic bowls filled with nuts, mints and other munchies strategically placed around your entertainment area. For a truly memorable fête, give a little party favor as a gift to your guests as they depart. Three homemade cookies wrapped in colorful cellophane and tied with raffia, a fragrant votive candle, or even an assortment of fun candies tied up in a cello bag. Your guests will think you are the hostess extraordinaire!

Happy Labor Day girls!

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