There are many reasons to throw a party; to celebrate a birthday, an engagement or anniversary, or even to say bon voyage! One of the best and most creative parties I've ever attended was a bat mitzvah; there was no formal sit down meal, no caterers or wait staff; it was just a sea of cakes, pastries and cookies; candies and cupcakes and an scrumptious ice cream bar set among a beautiful backlit ice sculpture. It was a dessert party, and it was incredible.
For those unfamiliar with the idea, a dessert party is exactly what it sounds like: a party where the main focus - or theme, if you prefer - is desserts. You can gather your nearest and dearest at your home and share a love for all things sweet; sampling different sweets and treats, and having plenty of fun at the same time. If you like the idea and want to throw a dessert party yourself, here are a few tips that can help to ensure a fantastic event!
For those unfamiliar with the idea, a dessert party is exactly what it sounds like: a party where the main focus - or theme, if you prefer - is desserts. You can gather your nearest and dearest at your home and share a love for all things sweet; sampling different sweets and treats, and having plenty of fun at the same time. If you like the idea and want to throw a dessert party yourself, here are a few tips that can help to ensure a fantastic event!
How To Throw A Dessert Party
Consider A Sunday Afternoon Party
If you need time to prep for your party (cooking, baking and decorating, for example), consider throwing your party on a Sunday afternoon. This ensures you have all day Saturday for prepping, and Sunday evening for cleaning up and winding down. Be sure to send invites at least three weeks prior to the date of your party, especially if it's around the holidays. An online invitation works fine, but if your event is especially formal, be sure to send a paper invitation and request RSVPs so you have an idea of a headcount and, in turn, enough desserts and beverages for everyone.
Are you thinking about hosting your dessert party at home, or will you be renting a space? If you're renting a space, will you be working with on-site staff or hiring a caterer? These are important factors in determining your budget, menu and decor.
Decor Options
While you'll surely want to decorate for the occasion, you can can keep the dessert tables tablescapes fairly minimal since the beauty will lie within the food itself. Some plain white serveware, tablecloths and doilies will do just fine. If you want to add pops of color, you can use colorful candies in glass apothecary jars.
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Include A Variety Of Desserts
Opt for a variety of treats for your guests, and be sure to have options for those with dietary restrictions, such as vegan or gluten-free. Focus on a variety of classic, easy-to-handle desserts, such as petit fours, cupcakes, miniature pastries, macarons and confections such as candy and cake pops. A good rule of thumb is about three desserts (or servings) per person.
While homemade is always nice, don't hesitate to purchase a few of the desserts from your favorite bakery. Not only will this take some of the stress off of you, it will also give you the opportunity to serve something a little fancier, that might be out of your comfort zone.
Enjoy Your Beverages, Too
If children will be attending your party, then you should make sure to have plenty of milk and juice on hand. You can set up beverage stations at kid-friendly heights just by covering a few upside down milk crates with a tablecloth.
For adults, you can arrange the same sort of beverage station on a buffet or sideboard with coffee, tea and sparkling water; champagne and prosecco. Cabernet Sauvignon pairs really well with chocolate, too.
If you're throwing a dessert party for Christmas or New Year's, consider a citrus-y holiday punch.
Opt for a variety of treats for your guests, and be sure to have options for those with dietary restrictions, such as vegan or gluten-free. Focus on a variety of classic, easy-to-handle desserts, such as petit fours, cupcakes, miniature pastries, macarons and confections such as candy and cake pops. A good rule of thumb is about three desserts (or servings) per person.
While homemade is always nice, don't hesitate to purchase a few of the desserts from your favorite bakery. Not only will this take some of the stress off of you, it will also give you the opportunity to serve something a little fancier, that might be out of your comfort zone.
Enjoy Your Beverages, Too
If children will be attending your party, then you should make sure to have plenty of milk and juice on hand. You can set up beverage stations at kid-friendly heights just by covering a few upside down milk crates with a tablecloth.
For adults, you can arrange the same sort of beverage station on a buffet or sideboard with coffee, tea and sparkling water; champagne and prosecco. Cabernet Sauvignon pairs really well with chocolate, too.
If you're throwing a dessert party for Christmas or New Year's, consider a citrus-y holiday punch.
Need some inspo? Check out these dessert party ideas we curated from Pinterest:
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