Our friends at luxury partyware brand Meri Meri provide expert tips on making your events truly unforgettable. From kids’ birthday bashes to evening drinks parties, here’s how to create memorable magic…
Hosting a party might sound simple – food, drinks, decorations, music and guests. Not as easy as it sounds. Throwing a truly memorable event requires a lot of thought and a touch of magic. Whether you’re planning a cosy autumn lunch, a kids’ birthday party or an elegant evening soirée, we’ve got the top tips to make sure your event sparkles. Meri Meri is here to help you create those unforgettable moments.
Pick a theme
Let’s start with the basics – pick a theme! This golden rule applies to every kind of event. For kids’ parties, it’s non-negotiable: the theme must be driven by what they love. Is it fire trucks, mermaids, roller skating or wildflowers? Let their passions shine through.
For grown-ups, dive into your own creativity – whether it’s based on a favourite film, a beloved colour, or a mood, the theme sets the tone. (Check out Meri Meri theme ideas here.)
Looking for an autumnal theme? Think rich harvest shades, woodland textures and the irresistible mushroom trend, which is perfect for both cosy Sunday lunches and kids’ parties. Alternatively, a vibrant autumn flower garland instantly brings the season to life. Shop Meri Meri’s autumn edit here.
RSVP Required: Send out invitations
Once your theme is secured, it’s time to invite your guests. Whether you’re a fan of classic paper invites or chic digital ones, go for something easy to read yet stylish. Paperless Post offers elegant digital options with tracking, so you’ll know exactly who’s opened and RSVP’d.
Meri Meri now also provide a range of editable download-and-print invitations you can customise for your event and send either digitally or in print. Effortless style! Shop Meri Meri invitations here.
Shine On: Illuminate your party!
Now it’s time to craft the atmosphere. Planning a cosy cocktail party? Soft, warm lighting will instantly create intimacy. Don’t be afraid to mix and match candle styles and lengths – short mushroom-shaped candles work beautifully alongside elegant tapers and a touch of foliage.
And don’t forget the magic of portable lighting.
A few Pooky rechargeable table lamps scattered around your space – on a bar trolley, side table or garden wall – will cast a flattering glow exactly where you want it, without any trailing wires. They’re perfect for extending the party outdoors or adding a warm highlight to your table display.
For daytime kids’ parties, go for crisp, bright lighting with a fun set of birthday candles for the perfect celebratory feel. A baby or bridal shower calls for something softer – think delicate table candles and gentle lamplight to set the mood.
Decorations are your chance to let your imagination run wild. Whether you love a minimal look – simple table settings with a bold centrepiece – or prefer a maximalist feast for the eyes with layers of fine china, colourful glassware and big, oversized garlands, make it your own.
Host with the Most: Make guests feel special
How to make your guests feel like VIPs from the moment they walk through the door? For sit-down dinners, opt for place cards with your guests’ names to help avoid any awkward shuffling. Careful planning of who sits where can create a great atmosphere, plus a personalised touch like seeing their name at their place immediately makes guests feel welcome.
“Anything personalised goes a long way – a notebook with initials is a great present or little pouches that are personalised,” says Meredithe Stuart-Smith, Meri Meri Founder & President.
And for kids’ parties, party bags and favours are a must. Think little accessories, glittery tattoos, and handwritten notes – go all out.
Food for Thought: Plate it up in style
Make the food itself a feature. Think abundant platters of cheese, bread and meats, all beautifully laid out for your guests to indulge in. A clever easy trick is to layer up paper plates with ceramic ones. It’s a win-win: not only is it an easy way to introduce colour and vibrancy, but it’s a lot less washing up too!
Add in some reusable partyware like melamine plates, cups and trays and fabric garlands and linen napkins for a more sustainable event. These items can be packed away and brought out year after year, event after event.
“Different levels of crockery always look – never over crowd serving dishes and giving food room to breathe,” says Meredithe. “Mini flower arrangements mixed amongst the serving dishes work well if doing a buffet.”
Set the Scene: Tablescaping tips for seasonal charm
When it comes to tablescapes, think layers and focal points. Build your look with layered tablecloths, plates, candles and glassware. Start with a strong centrepiece and work your way out, creating depth and drama at every level.
“For autumn, a table filled with gourds and mini pumpkins amongst candles really looks great,” says Meredithe.
Enjoy and let your creativity run wild – your next party will be unforgettable! And when it comes to ambience, remember: a little glow goes a long way. From Meri Meri’s sparkling decorations to Pooky’s elegant rechargeable lamps, it’s the finishing touches that make the magic happen.
Have a wander through the Meri Meri party wonderland here.
Photo top: Lollie rechargeable table lamp in white marble, styled by Meri Meri
