Put some pop in your Pride party

Party hopping before PrideFest is a great way to start the festivities early. This year, why not plan your own, and welcome friends to your happening abode? Throw in some fun decorations, festive cocktails, delicious bites and follow the advice of some local party planners to add some pizzazz to your soirée.

Start by picking a theme, and then plan a budget. Once you’ve determined these two factors, it will be easy to choose cuisine and cocktails to fit within the theme. “The details are important and will bring your theme to life,” said Michael Roffino, CEO and owner of Design Works. “I suggest having a cup of coffee with friends, partners or both, and coming up with ideas together. Also, keep in mind that costumes and entertainment are necessities.”

For a few ideas, Roffino suggests putting a twist on the rainbow theme. “[Use] color blocking, and have all your guests dress in red, have all your flowers in yellow, maybe food and linens in shades of green, umbrella tables in blue, etc.,” he said. “Another theme idea could be playing off of legendary movies with actors that support the LGBT community, such as Judy Garland from The Wizard of Oz, Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes and John Leguizamo in To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar and the delicious Guy Pearce, Terence Stamp and Hugo Weaving in Pricilla, Queen of the Desert. Let your imaginations run wild with these, be creative, step out of the box and keep it simple.”

Meanwhile, Skye Griffith, CFEE, president of Skyline Talent & Events, Inc., suggests taking things even further. “The literal meaning of Pride is splendor, magnificence or pomp, so I say go for it,” he said. “How about a Moroccan magic theme? Those Moroccans really know how to eat – with their hands.”

Griffith suggests starting the meal with a fresh salad of diced tomatoes, cucumbers and onions tossed lightly in olive oil and lemon juice with a hint of chopped mint. “Couscous is a wonderful Moroccan dish for the main course that can be prepared vegetarian, or with lamb or chicken,” he said. “There are many recipes available on the Internet. Pinch a bite-sized amount of couscous with your fingers, combining it with the yummy vegetables included in the recipe and any meat. It’s a slow, sensuous way to eat, meant to be combined with good conversation and a hearty bread.”

Both companies can help you plan the perfect pre-Pride party so all you have to do is enjoy the fun. With help from Skyline Talent & Events you can design and produce your event from concept to completion by recommending and booking entertainment, or by acting as a consultant. “We are delighted to assist in whatever way is consistent with your budget and helpful to the host/hostess to be able to enjoy the party along with the guests,” Griffith says. l

Tip: Set the stage with rainbow roses

Add even more color to your party with rainbow roses (also known as coming out roses). These colorful roses will be a sure hit and will make your Pride party as colorful as you are.