Handling Party Ooopsies!

Last week I shared about the bridal shower I attended and how it was quickly realized that there was not going to be enough champagne to last thru the entire event.  As a follow on to that conversation I want to talk about taking action when something or some part of your event has an ooopsie.  In a previous blog I wrote about contingency planning, but this is a little different.

In the champagne ooops, one of the hostesses (MOB – mother of the bride) took immediate action by sending someone to the store.  Kudos to her for her quick decision making and quick action! As I was reflecting on that little ooops – we knew that the champagne was going to run out shortly, I realized that other than the few of us who were aware of the situation, the rest of the guests had no idea.  That is what you want!  In a perfekt world only you and 1 or 2 others should know if there is an issue, crises, or an ooopsie!

The difference between contingency planning and reactive planning is just that.  While you are planning your party or event, you want to at least give some thought to the “what ifs”.  What if it rains/snows/is scorching hot, what if you were expecting guests to bring food to your pot luck and everyone shows up with chips and dips or desserts, what if someone gets unruly, what if someone breaks something, what if your help or entertainment doesn’t show up, what if……… Of course while you plan your party you have to at least give some of these things a thought – especially weather contingencies and no shows.

My main focus today is how to least impact you party when something doesn’t go as expected/planned or wasn’t considered.  Just as our MOB hostess did – she learned about the shortage, discussed the recommended amount needed with a couple of people, found a volunteer to run to the store with her funds to buy what was needed.  All this was done quickly and decisively.  And I should mention – as equally important – quietly.

Every situation will be different, but if you can slip into a back room, side room, inside/outside etc where you can have a quiet conversation with 1-2 people to determine the best action or plan of attack, that provides best solution – that is perfekt!  In these circumstances surround yourself with those who have clear heads and can think rationally, practically and reasonably under pressure.  Guaranteed you already know who of your guests that would be. Avoid those who after a drink or two will blab to your entire guest list the issue or will overreact!

Plan well, have a contingency plan and if something doesn’t go as planned – decide on your plan of action and move on it quickly and quietly!!

Happy Planning!!!! What’s your next party?

“Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens”  – Jimi Hendrix

Cheesecake Bites
(makes 24)

These bites are yummy and easy to make.  Always a crowd pleaser! Champagne and cheese cake – yum yum!

Graham Cracker Crust
1 1/4 c graham cracker crumbs
1/4 c sugar
1 stick of butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350. In a food processer combine graham crackers and sugar until fine crumbs.  Add butter and mix.  Line cupcake pans with paper baking cups.  Press graham cracker mixturer into baking cups.  Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and reduce heat to 325.

Cheesecake

3 – 8oz softened cream cheese (I use 2 less fat, 1 regular)
1 c sugar
4 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla

In a large mixing bowl beat the cream chesse until very smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing.  Add vanilla and eggs 1 at a time. Mix well. Pour about 1/4 cup of mixture into cups.  Bake for 25 minutes or until cupcakes are set.

Topping

1 c sour cream (I use light)
1/4 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Combine all ingredients and mix well.  Spoon mixture over cupcakes and return to oven for 5 minutes to glaze. When cool enough to handle remove from pans.  Let cupcakes cool completely on wire racks, then refrigerate.  Top with fresh fruit (berries) or a dollop of jam just prior to serving. Enjoy!