In theater props mean nothing without the effective lighting. The same applies to a party space. Lighting is a crucial aspect in creating a sexy, intimating and inviting atmosphere. Let me share with you some illuminating tips when you are throwing a party:
Rearrange lamps: You want your party space to be enveloped in an even glow. Make sure that your buffet areas and bar have a little extra light so the guests can serve themselves without spilling or breaking anything.
Buy inexpensive dimmers: You can find them at hardware stores and attach them to your light fixtures. Your space should be dark enough to feel special or intimate but light enough to see people’s faces and the food.
Install yellow or pink light bulbs. These colors cast warm, flattering light. Invest in a couple of uplights that are shaped as canisters and sit on the floor. The best spots for them are behind the bar and buffet and illuminating interesting spots in the garden or patio.
Re-use your Christmas lights: You thought that your white Christmas lights are only for the holidays? Think again. Placing the lights around trees, patio umbrellas, or even in the back of a sofa can produce a whimsical effect for a pleasant spring or summer evening.
I always say that “if there is an open bar and the music is great, a party is guaranteed to be a success”. Don’t underestimate the power of the music. You can truly make or break the mood, so spend some time planning what to play. Create a playlist in your computer or MP3 player and save it under different folders or categories that will be easy to play during the party. Start with some lounge music or cool jazz and eventually move to the Top 40’s. If you already have some people dancing, play some oldies like the ‘70’s or ‘80’s. Then, you can add some Latin music or whatever music fits your crowd.
If you are throwing a dinner party and dancing is not part of the plans, you still need to plan a fantastic playlist. Stick with soft lounge or jazz, or customize the theme of your dinner. For a Tuscany garden dinner party, I like to play some old Italian music. For a French dinner, I love classic Parisian songs. There is a great series of World music called Putumayo. Whatever cuisine you are serving in your dinner party, you will find some great music from Putumayo that will match the “theme”. Believe me! People will be raving about your music! 
