Guest Post: Dinner Party Tips

I thought it might be fun to start having a few guest posts here and there. Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to New York City Rentals . Manhattan Real Estate, home improvement and the latest architecture, design and fashion. Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign. We did a collaborative effort on how to throw a smashing dinner party....and of course I added some inspiring photos as well. So cheers to your next fete~

If you've ever wanted to party like you favorite Manhattan socialite, you could either head downtown to the endless party of bars and clubs—or you could throw your own and bring the downtown scene to your place. When you think of throwing your own Manhattan style party, think of bringing an ultra-modern glam factor to your décor. Think you're not glamorous enough to throw a luxurious party fitted for a Manhattan party queen? Think again with these easy party tips for throwing a party worthy of the paparazzi.

Party Layout: The key part of any successful party is how much people enjoy themselves by interacting with friends or by meeting new ones. Setting up the layout of your space to allow for mingling is very important. Use a mix of long and short tables to create areas where people can chat or for the ladies to take a break from their heels. Use tables that you already have throughout your space. Even if you don't have a lot of surfaces to use, use your furniture to create small, intimate seating arrangements. Whatever you do, don't line your walls or party perimeter with chairs; you don't want you party to resemble a high school dance.

*not the best representation of the scene from 500 Days of Summer...such a perfect outdoor party scene!

Decorations: It's all about the lighting. Think low lights and luxurious looking décor. This doesn't mean you need to break your bank though. Use white tablecloths to cover your surfaces and accessorize with silver elements; silver candles, silver trays, napkins and plates. Save money by creating your own centerpieces. Simply take shallow silver bowls, fill the bottom with decorative stones and place different sized candles in the center. A small bowl filled with stones, water and floating candles is always a great idea too. If you're having the party outside, get out your holiday lights and string them around the area.

Hor D'oeuvres: Food can be catered or, for the frugal fashionista, it can be made at home. Remember to think of finger food and things that are easy to nibble on. People will be mingling, talking and maybe even dancing so think of things that are easy to pick up and eat. Set up food throughout the room to encourage people to walk around and not hover over one food table. Set out some of the food in the beginning of the party and keep some of it tucked away in another room. When the trays are empty, you'll have food to refill them with to keep your guests happily nibbling all night.

Drinks: Having a well-stocked bar for the party does not mean having every type of alcohol available for your guests. Pick a cocktail recipe or two and mix up a large pitcher of it, buy some box wine and put it in pretty decanters, and don't forget to have a few sodas on hand for those who don't drink.

With these easy party tips, you're bash will be the talk of the town!