Spouse Party Guide

Try these two ideas to get the party started.

by Emily McKinley

As with any party, the first step to planning is to decide on a theme and guest list.  The theme will dictate the formality of the party, while the guest list will make the difference between an intimate affair and one that has the block rolling.  When determining these factors, consider your budget and the time that you are willing to put into preparation.  Remember, a small guest list does not necessarily mean low budget and little preparation.  On the contrary, an intimate affair can be just as expensive as and even more difficult to arrange than a larger, more casual get together.

PROGRESSIVE DINNERS

Perhaps you would like to host a formal dinner party but are not so keen on doing all of the preparation.  If so, try a progressive dinner in which each course of a meal is served at a different house (preferably within walking distance).  This is another great way to showcase all of the participants’ talents.  One “guest” may host a pre-dinner cocktail hour with drinks and appetizers; then the group moves to another’s home for a salad.  The party moves progressively from one house to another, enjoying each course of the meal in a different setting.  The larger courses may be prepared by the host and several “guests” so that no individual is over-burdened with preparation, serving or clean-up duties.  (Tip:  If your guests are spread about a large geographical area, consider renting a limousine for the evening!)

POTLUCK SUPPERS

For an even simpler evening, host a potluck supper.  Invite neighbors, friends and family to join you for some fun without the fuss.  Ask others to share their favorite dish with the group.  Potlucks are the way to go when hosting a large group or inviting single service members (especially those living in the barracks) to join your family.  By nature, a potluck is more casual than other dinner events and they offer guests a wide variety of culinary treats.  As the host, be sure to offer a well-rounded meal by asking your guests about their dish ahead of time.