Pop the champers, year-end functions are back baby! And we’re huge fans of hosting them at home because it’s convenient, cost-efficient and cosy.
From rom festive holiday gatherings to epic year end celebrations, everyone loves a good party – but not everyone loves throwing one. It takes a lot of work to pull it off. But do it right and you’ll have just as much fun as everyone else and be revered. Award-winning event queen Londiwe MaZwide shares some of the best tips for throwing a memorable festive bash from the comfort of your own home.
Founder of Andimahle Building Events, LM Florals and LM Luxury Interiors, Londy (as she is more fondly known) oozes class, charisma and creativity. The 37-year-old local event designer and mom of three adorable children, has spent the past 14 years pulling off some truly opulent celebrations. These have not only seen her work on some high profile accounts, but her professional work ethic and outstanding business skills recently won her the 2022 FFI-MEA Business Award for Event Planner of the Year. She is in huge demand around the country and she wakes up each morning to start her day with four special words.
“When I started my company, I knew everything about it had to be about family. I won’t lie, juggling business and family is not easy. But what makes its possible is the love I have for both. Every day I ensure that my kids know the “power of a dream” and how to stay disciplined, even in the most menial tasks, so that they can achieve. Those four words have been the foundation for my success.”
When Londy joined the corporate world after graduating, she couldn’t fit in. She says the environment was too rigid, cut throat and cold so she decided to go it on her own. Today she does it all … managing entire events … everything from concept and design, putting up structures, handling the flowers and furnishings, right down to packing up post event.
“What I love most about my work is creating job opportunities for the youth of South Africa. The fact that many families are fed through my efforts, and I am able to empower young, upcoming entrepreneurs, makes me happy and more determined to push against all odds.”
When it comes to special occasions and year-end, Londy is a huge fan of hosting at home because, she says, it doesn’t only allow you to be casual and intimate in your environment, but it brings blessings to the home and family.
“The festive season event is definitely a time to spend with your loved ones. Home comes with safety and comfort which is crucial. It shows how hospitable you are. It means you can dictate and not be dictated to. Instead of transforming another venue, which can be limiting at times and costly, transform your home and personalise it to speak to what you love as a family and bring other loved ones together in your place of comfort. This alone makes people feel a greater sense of appreciation, value and love, adding to the feel-good atmosphere of this time of year.”
Choose something special and extraordinary
Always keep it simple, classy and classic! You can never go wrong with evergreen Christmas themed features, like red and green colours sprinkled with whimsical holiday decor and ornamentation for a traditional look. This never goes out of style. Classic white and old is also timeless. Your soft pinks and white pastels are also slowly becoming a trend in South Africa because of our climate.
Create an attractive ambiance
Invitations set the tone to the type of party you’ll be hosting. Send an advent calendar with your invites, this helps countdown to the party and creates excitement for young and old. These will also make another great conversation starter among guests at your party.
Dress code and colour are a must
This looks great in photographs as well as really beautiful when seated at the table. You can have a code for guys and girls – another great conversation starter. Your theme or dress code should be communicated along with the invitations so that your guests know what to wear and can get creative.
Party favours, games and parking
Stockings, hats and other party favourites lift your party to another level of elegance and show you have your guests in mind. Games and duties that include everyone can also be fun so no one feels left out. Parking for your guests is also key. If your yard cannot accommodate everyone, chat to your neighbours or communicate to your guests and suggest lift-sharing or catching a safe means of transport to and from your party.
Never neglect your GARDEN
This sets the mood for what is expected inside. Indoor decor throughout your house, including the bathroom/ toilets, shows attention to detail and the time you have spent thinking things through.
Lighting is key
Whenever you choose to begin your party, ensure the lighting is set up well. There’s something special about lighting, it adds to the mood.
Music is a must
Music gets people into the right spirit and ensures the mood is perfect. For a Christmas do, the best is Boney M! Every household holds Christmas carol’s dear to childhood memories and this is usually passed on to the next generation. These songs are also good conversation starters.
Food sets things apart
Provide food that is suited well to your event, or the kind of food you know most of your guests never really enjoy or indulge in. As Christmas in South Africa is in summer, try to incorporate a South African style of cooking into your meals. Spit braaing also is another brilliant way to get things done. If you’re not a foodie, get a private chef to alleviate the pressure from you. Never have more than three options per meal. This helps with the budget and people are not overwhelmed by the variety. Remember, not everyone eats everything. Don’t forget to ask for dietary requirements so you can be sure there is enough for everyone. Alternatively there is also a bring and share option if everyone is game.
Drinks
Drinks should always be flowing and always have lemon water available. You don’t have to buy expensive drinks, but ensure they’re around the festivities. These days bringing your own drinks is also quite acceptable and less taxing on your pocket
Provide plenty of activities
Get everyone involved, Have enough activities throughout the time you’re hosting and always leave a gap for resting. If your party is a little less casual then an itinerary is key to send to guests beforehand so they are aware of the day ahead.
Details: You can follow Londy on IG: londy_mazwide_ and Twitter: @londy_mazwide_ or e-mail [email protected]
The Ultimate Party Planning Checklist:
- A clear budget
- Time frame (month before, then weekly, then daily)
- A great theme
- A menu to match
- Drinks menu / bar area
- A sound system
- A camera to capture memories
- Activities to enjoy as a family
- Inform neighbours
- Arrange parking
- Check weather
- Clean up crew before and after
- Send thank-you notes
- Assign duties according to people’s preferences
- Ensure all age groups have someone to take care of their needs
- Post event, pamper yourself for a job well done
Photos: STILLS BY TOM
