Guest Blogger: A lovely invitation from Miss Bunting!

Right FFF’ers, unless you’ve been under a rock – you’ll know this week was all about the frocks and fabulousness of the Oscars. But what I love more than the Oscars is all the action of the official after-parties, when the stars really let their hair down. All this got me thinking about what makes for a good host when throwing your own dinner party, and how to make sure your guests are comfortable enough to let loose and enjoy themselves. Over the next few weeks, I’m talking how to become a hostess with the mostess, and more importantly, how to make sure you can actually enjoy yourself at the same time.  

The first ingredient to getting the party mix just right happens before the guests are even at your door. I’m talking invitations, of course. And while you don’t need to break into that Smythson stationary for any last minute weekend bbq, a formal invitation will immediately set the tone for a special occasion.

In doing so, you’ll find that guests are more likely to RSVP on time and they’ll also be able to gauge the level of formality of event: whether they should bring their own meat tray (never) or bring a gift for the hostess (fresh flowers, a decent wine, certainly not one of the courses). And yes, this does throw open a whole minefield on guest etiquette, all of which will be addressed in another post …

While receiving an invite in the mail is truly special, if you don’t have time (who does?) try paperlesspost.com, where you can still create the desired effect with downloadable free, chic e-invites.

xMiriam

PS: Speaking of Oscars, it’s not always about the dresses - don’t forget to look down! We were fawning over Diane Kruger’s chic white Louboutin’s she rocked to the Vanity Fair Oscar after party. If you’ve got a pair of fierce heels like these, why not have them committed to paper and admire them every day. Get your shoes custom-illustrated by fashion illustrator extraordinaire, Pippa McManus (below right) over at Miss Bunting.