When you think about planning a party, are you inspired or intimidated? Don’t let those perfect Pinterest pictures keep you from hosting a holiday celebration. Parties are meant to be fun. Of course, if you want to elevate your gathering, here are a few ideas to add some easy elegance to any party – from intimate dinner to mid-size cocktail party to full-scale reception.

The Table

No need for an elaborate or expensive centerpiece. Here’s an idea that is pretty and … bonus … you can drink it when the party’s over or give it as a gift to your guests. Simply tie flowers (see below), ribbons or greenery around the neck of a bottle of champagne or wine. Secure with floral wire if necessary. 

THE FOOD

Champagne has broken out of the “luxury only” category when it comes to pairing with food. For a pairing that will surprise and please, serve a bottle of Gloria Ferrer Brut with fried chicken. The crisp acidity and racy bubbles are heavenly with crisp fried chicken tenders.

Tip: USE A PIPING BAG 

It is one of the easiest, yet most important, kitchen tools available when it comes to entertaining. It helps you create amazing–looking appetizers and desserts, even if they are premade. In fact, the Phylo cups and brownies, in the photos below, were premade. To create these designs we used the Star Tip with our piping bag.

Click here to get our piping bag recipes!