The red carpet season will officially begin with the kick-off of the Golden Globe Awards this weekend from Hollywood. It's also the perfect time for you to kick off your year in high style with a glam filled gathering!
Here are the basics for throwing a tinseltown worthy soiree:
Invites: Send out a gold and glittery invitation via e-mail, (evite and paperless post are good choices).
Decor: Pop into the party store for a red carpet runner ( check the wedding aisle of craft stores), sparkly glitter strewn on tables and golden balloons strung with gold metallic ribbon hanging from the ceilings make for a festive backdrop.
Tables with votive candles and small glass vases filled with roses set a sophisticated tone. Most grocery stores have roses in the floral section making them an easy find and cost effective.
Lite Bites: Set a buffet table for ease of hosting duties, fill it with star shaped polenta cakes with sautéed spinach and melted gorgonzola cheese. Puffed pastry cut into star shapes, sprinkled with sausage, cheese and baked also make festive fare. Fancy pizzas with apples, arugula and goat cheese with a light crust are tasty and filling.
What's a good viewing without popcorn? Set-up a popcorn bar or station with favorite toppings like white cheddar, melted caramel sauce, chocolate candies, and flavored salts.
Cocktails:Bubbly is a must-have, prosecco, sparkling wines, or champagne. How fun is Moet & Chandon'd Golden Globes Mini Caddy, perfect for guests to grab, pop, and watch! Sparkling wines are nice on their own like Secco Italian bubbles, or with a splash of something divine.
A festive mixer for your bubbly drinks is always a tasty hit. One of my favorites is light and sweet, adding just the right touch of glam.
Starlight
serves 8
1 ( 750ml) bottle champagne
8 oz. St Germain Elderflower Liqueur
8 oz. Lemon flavored seltzer
Dash of fresh lemon juice
lemon twist for garnish
In a small pitcher, mix all ingredients. Fill champagne flute one-third full with mixer, top off with champagne, garnish with lemon twist and serve.
You can also have a movie or show themed cocktail or two pre-mixed and ready to go.
Edible golden stars or golden sugar for glass rims adds a bit of wow, and can be found in craft stores.
The Winner
Serves 8
1 (750ml) bottle champagne or prosecco
8 oz. Grey Goose Le Citron
8 oz. pineapple juice
4 oz. Clementine or tangerine juice
In a pitcher mix the Grey Goose and juices together. Pour mix into a champagne or coupe glass until one third full. Top with champagne and serve.
Games: Star trivia is great to play during commercials, and the "big sip" everyone takes whenever someone's speech runs overtime is classic!
The best part about hosting a Golden Globes party is getting dressed up and joining in the Hollywood bash, use these simple tips and recipes for a top night!