Divine Decorum: Expert Advice for Parties and Weddings

Q: My mother is turning 75 and I want to make sure that I plan a once-in-a-lifetime event; one that stays with her low maintenance sensibilities. I know she’d freak if I did something like a black tie event. Do you have any suggestions?

-Rebecca, Skokie, IL

How wonderful that you’re planning a special party for your
mother. Turning 75 years old is a huge milestone to celebrate and can be done
in a subtle way. Organize a small casual dinner party using all of your
mother’s favorite foods, flowers and colors. Incorporate pictures of her; use
decorative frames and add to each table as centerpieces. Create a photo book
filled with images from your mother’s life and have the guest sign the book as
a memento for your mother. Whatever you decide to do for your mother, be sure
to capture lots of photos of her special event.

Q: I am planning an outdoor anniversary party, but with these hot temperatures I’m not sure the best alcoholic drink that won’t be too overwhelming for my guests. What is your go-to cocktail for these scorching summer months? Could you provide the recipe?

-Georgia, Peoria, IL

I would recommend going for a cocktail that has lower alcohol content. That way, it will decrease your guests’ chances of dehydration and still be refreshing. One of my favorite hot weather cocktails is a John Dailey – your basic Arnold Palmer with vodka added. Mix ½ lemonade and ½ sweet tea, add a shot of your favorite vodka and viola! Some other options: gin and tonic, mojito, or white sangria. Remember to leave chilled water bottles in easy to reach areas to compliment their alcohol intake.

Q: Since I was a little girl I have dreamed of my wedding day. My fiancée is very concerned with competing with his brother’s very expensive wedding from a few years ago. We are on a tight budget and want to add some timeless glam without breaking the bank. I wanted to incorporate crystal or pearls to make the event appear “richer.” What would you suggest we could do to add some sparkle to our fall ceremony this year?

-Meaya, Fox Lake, IL

Adding a touch of sparkle always makes an event look spectacular! I think that adding pearls to a fall ceremony would be a wonderful way to spice things up. Consider adding pearls to your bouquets, centerpieces, programs, and even to some of your linens. I love using small pearl pins to secure the linen tie on my cocktail tables; little additions go a long way! Almost any craft store will have pearls that can be glued or are already sticky to put anywhere you want!

Christina can be reached at 224.558.1764 or by email at Christina@christinacurrieevents.com.