Entertaining Essentials - Make It Personal

One of the things that I've learned over decades of entertaining (I started young!) is that whenever you can add a personal element to a party, it makes it more memorable. Not only for the guest of honor but those in attendance.

My husband at age 2

Recently, I had the pleasure of hosting an intimate birthday party for my husband. It wasn't a milestone birthday, but it was one I wanted him to remember.

I immediately knew I wanted to include the work of renown calligrapher, Bernard Maisner. So, I did a combination of "high/low". Here's how.

Bernard is one of a hand full of esteemed print designers whose work is available on Paperless Post. This allowed me a little more time than a hard copy invitation would require, as there were out of town guests invited. This was the "low" part of my party.

Next, I contacted Bernard to create some special elements. 

Stunning hand calligraphy on place cards with a silver bevel.

Cards were set at each guest's place, so that they could write a personal note. I read some out loud during the dinner and all will be gathered in a keepsake book for him. How much fun will he have reading these 10 years from now?

Next, I asked Bernard to create a 18"x8" sign that I could hang on the back of Grant's chair. He mounted it on foam board, so I will be able to reuse it for each of my boys' birthdays. How great is that?

 Here it is at the dinner.

And, how I've transitioned it to our home. Fits my chairs even better! It will be making it's next appearance in September.

 I repeated the 2 year old photo of my husband, by using it as gift tags on the party favors.

Finally, what's a party without a mustache? 

I believe that you don't have to wait for an occasion to celebrate. Find one. Make one up. Just don't wait. And when you do...make it personal!