- Jamahl King, CEO, S.T.EP.S. Event Planning Firm
Jamahl King is celebrating 15 years as founder and CEO of S.T.E.P.S. Event Planning Firm. Here, he shares with readers how they can plan a fabulous fete without breaking the bank.
1. Kim Kardashian, in spite of her marriage debacle, had a beautiful wedding reception. What are some fab tips that you can pass along in terms of the floral arrangements and decorations that wouldn’t cut into the rent or mortgage payment?
I think lighting is an oft forgotten detail that enhances a reception tremendously. If you’re running short on the floral bouquet, but have a few choice pieces, the right lighting does wonders to highlight the special areas in your layout. In certain locations of the room that are sparse or lacking in decor, dim mood lighting hides the flaws but still makes for a romantic setting.
2. For the holiday season, readers want to get away from the traditional red, green and gold for Christmas. What are some traditional holiday colors that can be substituted, without losing the warmth?
I love maroon. It’s a rich, bold color that manages to be festive and striking at the same time. If used as an accent throughout your room with a hint of metallic gold, it warms the atmosphere and still creates a holiday feel without looking too costume [like].
3. What is the trend in invitations? Do you prefer digital or paper invitations? Why?
I have always appreciated well-done paper invitations. The art of writing a good letter or … a special note is lost nowadays, so you’d be surprised how well it’s received when hosts take the time to send an invitation. If you’re worried your guests won’t remember to look for an invite, feel free to send an economic save-the-date via email, but if at all possible, send the formal invitation by regular mail.
4. How should the host or hostess dress?
In the holiday season the host’s attire should reflect comfort and style. There are beautiful holiday ties, pendants, sweaters and blouses that will complement any event holiday theme. Across the board though, it’s important to remember comfortable shoes. There’s nothing like having your night cut short because you can’t manage to get across the room to mingle with more of your guests.
5. How do you select music?
I generally select music that sets the atmosphere for the holiday season. My favorite CD’s are Handel’s Messiah, One Wish by Whitney Houston, 12 Soulful Nights of Christmas by Jermaine Dupree and the musical CD from the motion picture This Christmas produced by our client, Rain Forest Films.
6. What are some cute themes for this season?
Winter Wonderland for adult parties never goes out of style. There’s something about crisp white during the winter that screams elegance and sophistication. And if you’re entertaining family and really would like to cater to little ones, pick a holiday character and base your event around that. A reindeer motif, for instance, can be dressed up or down depending on the age of your guests and allows for you to be creative when addressing decor issues.
7. What are some inexpensive ideas for party favors?
Practical party favors can be surprisingly inexpensive. Most recently, I’ve used seasoning packets to accompany a classic holiday recipe my family uses. You put the packets together yourself in a decorative bag and design the recipe card with the same theme as your party. It’s a take-home your guests can use and appreciate.
