Okay, maybe it’s about last week when I finally get this post loaded.
I held my first event on April 15. Wait, let me backup. I held my first event as Paris is Calling, and let me tell you it was pretty-darn-freaking-fabulous, if I do say so myself.
Okay, it was a tad chilly outside and a few of my guests couldn’t make it, and I am so sorry they missed it because people, let me tell you, I know how to throw a party.
Now, this party would not have been at all what it was without a few key ingredients.
1. It had great content. What exactly do I mean by that? Well, it had a purpose, which was to give the attendees a bit of education on a particular topic. The topic: French, English, and Maryland ciders.
2. Food and Drink. All parties need good food and drink. Drink was covered under item one above. However, making sure the food pairs well to what you are serving is vitally important. The spinach, feta, and prosciutto galettes were just the perfect amount of salty-savory goodness to stand up against the acidity in the ciders.
3. Make your guests feel special. I love taking care of people. Creating opportunities for small surprises and the opportunity to feel spoiled or special can take a good event to a magical moment. Seriously, after 13 months of socially-distanced living who couldn’t use a little TLC right about now?
4. This is the most important. The people. Both the guests and those helping you execute the event. This first event for me was filled with people who are at the top of their game in food, cider, and venue. It’s also important to have a strong support system. Luckily for me I had all four going for me with Willow Oaks Craft Cider, Canapes Catering, Chartreuse & Co, and Elin Ross, as my wingwoman.
The guest list is equally as important. A crowd of smart, eager to learn, and love to shop women filled the courtyard. I would like to think that each of them walked away with a little more knowledge about craft ciders and an interest in exploring more.
Mixing all that together and stirring it up was truly a recipe that I can’t wait to repeat throughout this summer. Be sure to check out my events so you, too, can get in on a little bit of spoiling and magic.