'Your papers, please' must never be heard in America
While you may assume what you serve your guests to eat and drink is of paramount importance to a successful party, interior designers know the secret to hosting a party that will be talked about for months is developing a theme.
"Great lighting is always the key to any fabulous party," Ms. Boland said. "I know it sounds crazy, but every light switch in your house should have a dimmer, even in the bathroom. When party time rolls around, dim the lights, light some candles - unscented only - put on some tunes and let your guests be the focus."
"The way your home is furnished [for a party] is not necessarily going to be the same as everyday life," Ms. Boland said. "For example, if you are hosting a first Communion brunch, you might have to bring chairs up from the basement for additional seating, especially if you have older guests like grandparents in attendance."
