Designer Sarah Magness shares her top tips for New Year’s entertaining
Magness Design’s James Bond-themed lounge at Holiday House, via Costas Picadas
‘Tis the season for entertaining, but if you’re tired of the old standbys like pigs-in-a-blanket and playing Cards Against Humanity, interior designer Sarah Magness has some great tips on how to class things up and “entertain like Bond this holiday season.”
Sarah and her firm Magness Design recently worked with Italian furniture brand Promemoria on a masculine, Casino Royal- and James Bond-themed lounge at the Holiday House designer show house (more on that here). From investing in some key party pieces to taking the bar to the next level, Sarah’s ideas will have you hosting like a pro.
Via T. Anthony
1. Get a to-go barÂ
“This is SO Bond! For those who don’t have space in their apartment, this Bond-esque party trick will never cease to impress.” Sarah describes it as a “party in a box” and recommends this model by T Anthony. It’s $1,800, but can be used at any event or as a decorative item day-to-day.
2. Hire a bartender who looks the part
Not only does this take the pressure off you as the host, but your guests can enjoy the perfect cocktail, shaken or stirred. Sarah says this option is “great for millennials” who are familiar with for-hire sites like Task Rabbit. Enlisting a bartender for the evening is only about $250.
3. Buy stylish, disposable martini glasses
These plastic, break-resistant martini glasses are just $11.75 each. “No maintenance – party and toss. They’re functional while being aesthetically pleasing; they look the real thing, but no clean up required!” says Sarah.
Promemoria card table, photo by Costas Picadas
4. Bring in entertaining furnishings
Card tables create a new element and dimension for entertaining. “It’s more about spacial layout and creating space. Take out half your furniture and lower the temperature 10 degrees an hour before guests arrive.” said the designer, who grouped her Holiday House furniture around a custom card table created by Promemoria.
Photo by Richard Lewin
5. Hire a professional blackjack dealer for some party entertainmentÂ
“Life is a party – what better way to enjoy it then with some harmless gambling? Place bets with friends on who’s hosting the next event.” Like bringing a bartender on board, this will only cost about $275.
6. Create custom-made playing cards
“A fun way to personalize your event that doubles as a party favor! Your guests will leave with a token to remember the evening that they can use for years.” This service has tons of fun customization options.
Photo of Sarah Magness by Costas Picadas
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