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Planning For a Party Made Simple

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Written by MaryAnn Raimey

Saturday, 03 May 2008

by MaryAnnRaimey

I'm not Martha Stewart. In fact I have no aspirations to ever become a Martha close. But I do love a good family gathering. I also love to spend time with my friends. When we are together, we all have fun and I'm always glad we hosted the party afterwards. But it's that pre-party time before where there seems to be so much to do that has me doubting the effort. It's a lot of work!

Occasionally, I watch those cooking and entertaining shows that assure one that putting together a party is so very simple and fun. They serve unique meals that all the guests rave about, have the perfect dcor, and even have a "theme" for the party. There is not a paper plate or stain in the carpet to be found on those programs. I am often lulled into thinking that I can pull off such a perfect party with perfect ease. After all, it only took 30 minutes on the TV program.

I love my home - it's comfy and roomy. But clean? Rarely. And we live on budgets so we don't have a designer decor. Getting the table set with a clean tablecloth is a big event for us. It's a family home and one well lived in. It's not party central.

I hate to admit it, but all of this makes me feel a bit inadequate, and it often keeps me from inviting guests over. I realize that in order to have the perfect party, it will take me far longer than 30 minutes. And with work, house, and kids' activities, I barely have 15 minutes to prepare dinner for my own family, much less a group of guests.

But then I take a step back and think of the parties I have been to. Most of the events we are invited to are put on by working moms, just like me. They have dishes in the sink and stains in the carpet. They serve hot dogs and chips for the kids on paper plates. Sometimes there are a couple of unique dishes for the adults to "ooh" and "ahh" over. Sometimes the party has a theme, but there is rarely a "table-scape" that looks like it should be on the cover of a magazine.

I realize that these are the very people that I am inviting to my party. They expect, and enjoy, imperfection. Yes, I still drive myself crazy cleaning, cooking, and planning, but I worry far less about copying the television shows. I am so very blessed to have family and friends that like to come to my home for the people, not the perfect party.

About the Author:

Regardless of whether you are planning a graduate's party or a Mother's Day celebration, you can have a ton of fun without spending a ton of money. Just put the focus on fun!

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