The holidays are on their way! Enjoying the festivities is much easier when we can step confidently into our roles of hosts and hostesses. I am excited to share my interview with Jorge Perez, a popular entertainment expert, who is here with tips that will help us impress our holiday guests this season. With help from an expert, our 2009 parties are sure to reach new levels of greatness.
How did you become an entertainment expert?
I was brought up in a home where etiquette and fine manners were always first and foremost. And when it came to entertaining my parents always did it with the utmost of style. Although there were 3 boys in the house, there was always a sense of formality no matter how casual the occasion. I learned early on the importance of using the proper tools when entertaining. The way you entertain is a reflection of who you are. There is no better way to express your sense of style and creativity then at your table.
One of my favorite parts of my job is that I am able to work with the most beautiful tabletop and gift products in the world. My job takes me around the country and involves many social functions. I particularly enjoy sharing my knowledge of entertaining and bridal registry via TV shows, magazine interviews, blogs and personal appearances.
What are some of the biggest mistakes people tend to make when entertaining for the holidays?
Forgetting to have a good time and simple principles such as stocking up with the tools needed to entertain from platters to barware, candles, linens, and all the other essentials you will need. I love Bloomingdale’s for all my entertaining needs. With the very best assortment anywhere, they have all that I need to Entertain with Style.
Your china, crystal, flatware, and linens should be of good quality and enduring style. Stick to manufacturers like Waterford, Wedgwood, and Royal Doulton and you will entertain for years with confidence. You will love it for life.
What are 3 of the most important things to remember when entertaining for the holidays?
Here are some stress-free tips for your holiday dinner parties:
1. Set up your flowers ahead of time so you can enjoy them for a few days and the buds will be open for the party. Your Waterford crystal fluted champagne glasses make great trumpet vases.
2. Set up your table and bar ahead of time (no more then 2 days early for dust purposes). Remember; “Your Table is Your Label”. It tells your story and helps set the tone for an event. Take a look at any tablescape designed by famed NYC-based event designer David Beahm and you will know the power of a well-designed table.
3. Lots of candles. You can never have too many. They help set the mood and we all know that everyone looks better in candlelight! Did you know that you can turn over any Waterford glass and you have an instant 3” pillar candleholder? And your Wedgwood fine bone china teacups make beautiful glowing votives.
Do you have any extra special tips that will wow our holiday guests?
1. Wow your guests with a glass of champagne the moment they walk in. I always have a separate champagne station by the front door which includes an assortment of different champagne glasses to kick off the evening the moment my guests walk in.
2. Impress your guests by using your things in unconventional ways. Pour popcorn out of your pitchers. Turn your Waterford footed cake plate upside down and serve chip-n-dip, shrimp cocktail or chocolate and strawberries. Use your bud vases and posy vases to pour peanuts and M+M’s. Have fun!
3. Never let your guests walk away without a gift to commemorate the evening, like a holiday ornament or a homemade treat with recipe card.
– Always Entertain with Style! Jorge
