Party-Planning

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Lifestyle and fashion guru Lauren Conrad is sharing her most-trusted
party-planning tips in the new book “Lauren Conrad Celebrate.”

The book reveals Conrad's advice on everything from the perfect invitations
to food and decorations. Also included are stories from Conrad's own
housewarming party, and her recent bridal shower and wedding.

Conrad appeared today on "Good Morning America" and is sharing an excerpt of
her book here, for "GMA" viewers.

Photo: unusual wedding dresses

The Etiquette

Basic do’s and don’ts of party planning

Modern-day party-planning etiquette can be tricky, particularly for the
hostess. It feels like the general rules are always changing and usually
subjective, so I’ve compiled my tried-and-true tips for hosting an event with
grace and consideration.

I try to send out invitations four weeks in advance. People’s calendars fill
up quickly, but sending the invitations too early risks them being misplaced or
forgotten about. Obviously, for weddings and larger-scale events that may
require travel, you should afford your guests additional time, while two weeks’
notice is enough time for a smaller, more casual gathering.

Make certain to properly greet and introduce partygoers, even if you believe
they may have already met. Social gatherings can be intimidating, so do your
best to make each guest feel comfortable. (Take a note from Bridget Jones and
try to offer an interesting fact about each person to help spark a
conversation!)

Avoid serving fussy or antisocial foods. Keep the menu simple and familiar.
Do not serve heavily garlic- or onion-infused dishes. Socializing with stinky
breath is not good for anyone involved.

Invite guests with a date, if the budget allows. It makes for a better time
for everyone. If the budget is tight, be very clear in your invitation so that
you don’t find yourself scurrying to set an extra place setting when the guest
arrives with a plus-one.

Don’t invite a second-tier guest list too close to the event. People will
know they were not your first choice, and no one wants to feel like the
second-string.

Be prepared. Give guests as much information as possible ahead of time
regarding parking, transportation and attire; have a backup plan in case of
inclement weather, etc. The more you anticipate and do ahead of time, the better
your event will be. There are always inevitable hiccups on the day of, so it’s
best to eliminate or minimize the foreseeable bumps so you have more time to
focus on the unforeseeable ones.

Read more: vintage wedding dresses