I just came off of putting together three huge parties in nearly as many weeks. Am I tired?  Are you serious?  There are a few tricks to keeping your sanity, creating spectacular food and having a good time…GET HELP!!

I used to be all about getting it done myself. I am past that. Seriously, if that’s at all possible, get any-and-all the assistance you can.  For instance, the party I did on Dec. 5th, I was the help!  Payment required, but it’s still a lot of work and was a completely new menu for me and my team.

We created a game plan, lots of lists and still managed to leave a box of crucial elements in the base kitchen. Not such a big deal, except for the fact that we realized this little error after the 75 minute drive to the client’s house.  Through great teamwork, we worked it out, got the box, and the evening was a hit!!

My head’s a little sore today after the Holiday Party we threw at my house last night. We kept the menu simple, and I graciously accepted all offers of assistance from my chef friends! It is good to have a game plan.  In this case it was to have all food prep completed no later than 30 minutes after party started and then, no more kitchen time required. The team made me a cocktail, sat me down at the table, and took over my kitchen.  That had to be one the best parties I kind of, sort of catered.

With best for last, I’ll tell you about the party we threw for my parent’s 50th Wedding Anniversary around Thanksgiving.  My brothers and I pulled out all the stops : Maine Lobsters, Prime Tenderloin Fillet, Fresh Salmon Roe, Cheese and Charcuterie, Ahi Tuna and four dozen quilcene oysters… and much more.

We sent the folks out and had all the party equipment delivered, including three high boy cocktail tables, chafing dishes, stemware and plates.  My BFF attended and did all the decorations (which is what she does), and before we knew it, the room as all black, gold and white.  Everybody helped, a lot!!  It was a beautiful evening with lots of good food, gorgeous memories and love. 

So, have those parties without fear and don’t forget to ask for help.  Most of the time, people are waiting in the wings to lend a hand. It’s what friends and family are for.  Nothing’s any good when the host is in freak mode. You know what I mean.

A party is supposed to be about creating great memories, so get some help and perhaps some of the best memories will come from the prep. I will look back at this season and think of Julie and Katie workin’ it to make the catering event spectacular; remember my friends turning my humble kitchen into the best restaurant in town for a night; and cherish the time with my brothers and best friends preparing for a special occasion. What I won’t remember is the stress.