Diwali

Happy Diwali
From 101lifeStyle.com

Diwali Card Party Ideas:

Throwing a Diwali bash can be enjoyable for everyone - including the host. With these invaluable tips on how to plan your big do of the season, you can actually be the life of your own party instead of being a bag of nerves who is constantly stuck in the kitchen. Set the date, check with other party-throwers if your date clashes with theirs and get started. With the power-packed pointers we have for you, you will be more than prepared for yours.

The Guest List:
Begin by deciding if you will be throwing a huge jamboree with all your friends and family in attendance, or if it is going to be an intimate little gathering. After this crucial step, chalk out the guest list, as this will help you plan everything else. One rule of the thumb: make sure that the core of your party consists of people who know each other and then throw in some surprise guests.

The Invitations:
Once you know who you will be calling, you can go ahead and spread the word about your party. If you want to be unique, enlist the help of a design-savvy friend to help you create some interesting cards - say a phuljhadi or the Queen Of Hearts. Order the invitation cards so that they arrive at least two weeks in advance, leaving you enough time to mail or hand - deliver them. Or simply log onto the net, design a unique invite and e-mail it. Make sure you give an RSVP number and ask for a confirmation. You can always invite more people closer to the date if you're worried about getting numbers. It's always a good idea to invite neighbours - lest they complain about the noise.

The Venue:
When deciding where to throw your party, keep the profile of your guests in mind. A pub or a restaurant is an easy option, since you won't need to worry about food, cleaning up and all that drudgery; but venues with poor ambience and unhelpful staff will kill the vibe of your party. If you have the space, hosting a party at home is the best bet since you can be in control of the proceedings, including the all-important music!

The Decor:
Diwali is the time to go all out and deck up your home with flowers, candles and diyas. Follow a color scheme if you like. Be your srtistic best and make a rangoli with dry colors and flowers and dot it with tiny diyas. An elegant urli with floating candles and peta;s look lovely at the entrance. If the weather permits, make a bonfire, as this will boost the party's atmosphere instantly. Since most of the guests will play cards, provide adequate seating - lay out chattais (mats) and large floor cushions in groups to create game areas. Erect an outdoor pergola if you have the time.

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