By Richard L. Nix, Jr.

Does entertaining for large or even small groups seem daunting? If the thought of inviting the neighbors, your boss, or even your in-laws over for dinner sends you into a state of panic, then please read on. No, this is not another shameless plug for a reason to hire a caterer, but a sincere offering on how to organize a dinner party for ten or more without losing control.

Rule #1 of avoiding a daunting dinner is that the host must be able to enjoy themselves. A great way to achieve this goal is to choose a menu, or even a theme, that will be fun and easy to orchestrate. Strapping yourself down with complex recipes collected from the internet or a theme that takes hours of research is a sure fire recipe for disaster. As the old saying goes, “stick to what you know” or more importantly “know your limitations”. Don’t be confused, I am not suggesting that you throw a party to highlight your great aunt’s “chicken surprise,” but merely that creativity should be tested before premiering it at your dinner party.

Rule #2 of avoiding a daunting dinner is to make things easy by outsourcing the things that are not your strengths. For instance, if baking is not a skill you possess, order something delicious from the neighborhood bakery. Chances are it will be far more rewarding and less expensive than anything you will attempt to make at home. This theory should also apply to service; by hiring someone to assist you with the details. You cannot be the life of the party while chained to the stove. It will certainly be money well spent, especially when you wake up the next morning to a spotless home.

Rule #3 is easy; plan your work and work your plan. Never assume that you can whip up a spirited dinner for ten or more by starting to plan the morning of the party. Begin as far ahead of time as possible by detailing how your home will look, how the dinner will be served, what cocktails will be offered, and think about the selection of music that will accompany the festivities. The menu must also be included in your planning. Every successful chef begins preparation for a great dinner days before the actual event. Preparation includes shopping for the ingredients, preparing sauces, marinating meats and even freezing various items. Remember, the more you are able to complete ahead of time the more you will enjoy entertaining.

Hosting a party in your home does not have to be a daunting experience. A realistic evaluation of resources and skills along with preparation and your own unique style will reward you and your guests with a night to remember. Of course, when all else fails feel free to call The Butler’s Pantry at 314-664-7680.

Party Preparation Timeline Suggestions

By Richard L. Nix, Jr.

For our parents and grandparents, the champagne reception was a fairly typical way to celebrate the nuptials of families and friends. In fact some might say it was not only a stylish but also an elegant way to entertain. Somewhere between ice carvings bearing the likeness to the bridal couple and table linens that match the bridesmaid’s dresses, the champagne reception format may have been forgotten.

A champagne reception is generally defined as a party that serves champagne and non-alcoholic beverages. These functions usually offer light hors d’oeuvres and often occur during the mid to late afternoon. The Butler’s Pantry likes to expand on the typical definition and believes that the champagne reception is a versatile way to entertain. Here are some of the ways to make your celebration unique and festive.

Location is very important to a wedding ceremony, however, most champagne receptions can be held anywhere. The gardens of the family home, a shady area of a local park, an unusual art gallery or your place of worship could set the backdrop for your celebration. A romantic champagne reception could take place in the Piper Palm House on the grounds of Tower Grove Park surrounded by reflecting ponds, exotic plants, and horse drawn carriage rides. The newly renovated Culver Pavilion at The Muny in Forest Park is certain to be another dynamite setting. It is essential to select a location that will allow guests to comfortably mingle and yet provide the attendees an intimate setting.

Time is another crucial part of the champagne reception. In a relaxed wedding world, a champagne reception may be held at anytime of day. Starting late in the morning, through the midday and into the late afternoon, the champagne reception can be designed to suit any celebration. The evening champagne reception will be both elegant and glamorous. Whether the ambiance is dictated by candlelight, twinkling lights strung in the trees, fireworks, a string quartet, fragrant floral arrangements, or the sound of a waterfall an evening champagne reception will amaze your guests.

Once the time of the reception is chosen, work can begin on the menu. A wedding reception held in the mid-afternoon might include a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres accompanied by caviar or fresh seafood. A reception held in the late afternoon might want to add lavish food stations. The addition of hand carved meats or sautéed pastas can lend more substance to a meal without blowing the budget.

Finally, the champagne and beverages that are selected can really set the tone. Smaller intimate gatherings might appreciate such quality champagnes as Tattinger or Dom Perignon. Other fine champagnes that offer a quality taste but are more reasonably priced for a larger gathering would include Billecart-Salmon, Moet, Clicquot or Perrier Jouet. But, let’s not be limited to just champagne. Adding a wine bar with several different varietals can allow your guests choices other than the typical chardonnay or merlot. If providing unusual non-alcoholic beverages is important think about flavored waters, exotic teas, or a coffee bar with assorted condiments and toppings.

Remember, the locations, timing, cuisine, and spirits may change through the years, but the traditions of our parents and grandparents can live on through the champagne reception.

Sample Champagne Reception