Party Ideas
Restaurant Party: Everything's Coming Up Roses
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In these busy times, gathering at a special, favorite restaurant is such a convenient way to way to celebrate small-group occasions. Perhaps it’s your mother’s 67th birthday, and the family wants to treat her to a special night out … or an old friend is back in town, and a reunion is in order… Or, perhaps you’re treating your five best girlfriends to a special lunch…
It’s great to hold these kinds of events at a favorite public dining spot. Yet, it can also feel a bit impersonal. Never fear! With an extra few minutes of preparation, some very simple home-brought upgrades, and advance permission from the maitre d’, you can turn your restaurant gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.
Imagine your guests walking in to find themselves seated not just at any old table, but at a gorgeous, flower-strewn table where everything is “Coming up Roses.” Each and every guest will feel incredibly special. So will you! And it’s so simple to do.
This can be as simple as a casual email, note or phone call, or as special as a hand-delivered rose with an invitation card. Since most restaurant gatherings of this nature involve eight people or less, you are probably envisioning a simple, intimate event among friends and family – something you can turn into unforgettable fun with just a few flourishes.
A simple, basic color scheme will blend well in any restaurant setting.
Start by laying down some silver or white organza fabric. The play of light on organza is beautifully ethereal, and adds maximum impact to the velvety red roses.
Then, two large hurricane vases take center stage, with their white unscented candles flickering, surrounded by fresh rose petals. Sprinkle additional rose petals around the candles and down the middle of the 
table. If your party extends beyond a table for 8, you will want to add more vases.
The napkin ring is made using the very hot trend of “stringing petals.” You will see this all over the magazines. It’s easy to do and can be made ahead using artificial petals (as shown) or fresh (See How-To). The vibrant splash of color adds a bold impact for very little effort.
Decide ahead of time how the check is going to be handled. If it is going to be one check and one payer – a limited menu is a great option. You can type up the menu and then print it on this color-coordinated menu card (Download the Menu Card PDF).
A great party kick-off idea is to preorder some wine and hors d’oeuvres, so that they are available shortly after everyone arrives. If everyone is paying individually, this could be an expense that you decide to handle.
And check with the restaurant to find out what they do for dessert for special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.
Celebrating a birthday or anniversary? It’s a great idea to have a photo of the special guest (or guests) of honor.
This is simple – but fun. I’m in love with this idea - Personalized M&Ms! Go to http://www.mymms.com/ to check out all of the options. You can honor the occasion with your own special “edible” words. Download this Gift Tag to go along with the sweets (Gift tag PDF).
