It's time to throw a party!

The honeymoon is over. It’s now time for the newly weds to use the beautiful china, crystal, and silver that they received as wedding gifts and host their first party as a couple.

“Throwing their first dinner party is an exciting event in a newlywed couple’s life. It takes a lot of hard work, preparation, and it can even test their patience with each other!” says Priya Mascarehanas, society hostess with a hospitality background.
However, it does not have to be stressful as long as one plans the timing, preparation and figures out the logistics carefully.

Pramila and Praveen Roberts  married barely a year ago. Still busy setting up their home they say, “We are in the process of planning our first party even though our flat is not yet ready. Ideally, we will have one big substantial dish like a bake accompanied by a salad and lots of crusty garlic bread. We will factor in finger foods to nibble on right through the evening. Drinks would have to be a big batch of cocktails. For dessert I plan on dishing up my ‘never fail’ rummy chocolate mousse which is always a favourite with my friends to round off the meal.”

“First timers should keep things simple. Don’t experiment with recipes for the first time on the day of a party. Set a fusion menu so that you appeal to different tastes. Choose a main dish that you are sure of. It’s best to outsource the dessert but if it works out expensive, keep make something simple at home. Tidy all the rooms that will be in your guests’ view in advance. Set the table early and make sure the bathroom is fully stocked with toilet paper, hand soap, and towels. Ambience is very important,” adds Priya.
“Do as much preparation as you can the night before like marinating and vegetable chopping. Keep the salad ready with the dressing separate to be poured on before serving. Prepare a cold dessert that can be stored in the fridge overnight. Use soft lighting like candles in strategic places to give the room a glowing sophistication. It looks  much better than harsh bright lights,” says socialite Sushma Sait.

“Download a three hour mix of songs that can play throughout the evening.      Create a self-serve bar area spread out on a table that encourages guests to make their own drinks. Make a batch of pre-mixed cocktails but keep the ice separate so guests can add to their taste. This way   you won't have to run back  and forth refilling glasses all night. Keep everything as informal as possible, save the fancy stuff for a later evening. Remember, this is your first dinner party, not your last,” she adds.