Ask A Boston Expert: Tips On Throwing An Oscars Party

With the Oscars upon us, you may be thinking of a super fun way you can enjoy the glamorous night with your friends. While most of us can't get to Los Angeles for the red carpet magic, we can throw a super fun Oscars party instead! Check out some tips from one of Boston's best event planners, Eric Czerlonka.

Eric Czerlonka
CZERLONKA Event Design
(781) 620-2171
www.czerlonkaedm.com

Eric Czerlonka has designed and managed unique corporate events, weddings and social events for nearly two decades. The Boston native began his career in Chicago at the historic Navy Pier, followed by a long tenure at The Ritz-Carlton Hotels, spearheading events in Boston and Los Angeles. Since launching CZERLONKA Event Design & Management, Czerlonka has had the opportunity to plan and produce events throughout the United States as well as in international cities including Shanghai, Vienna, Istanbul and Morocco. Czerlonka splits his time between the East and West coast, but he calls Boston home.

"Brainstorm creative ideas without limitations. Allow yourself to create your perfect event by jotting down ideas on paper. Review your list and identify at least three items that would have the most impact on your guest experience. Use those ideas as a starting point to create the overall look and feel of the evening, then add in small details as your plan develops," says Czerlonka.

"Your initial brainstorming ideas may need to be downsized, but don't give up on them completely. For example, if you want a step and repeat with paparazzi but do not have the space, create a paparazzi area for your guest to take selfies. Simply create an interesting backdrop that supports the theme and provide a few selfie sticks. Your guests will not need much encouraging."

"You should set the tone of the party beginning with the invitation. An event like the Oscars deserves a printed invitation that is sent through the mail. Putting thought into selecting the quality of paper, a beautiful font and printing the envelopes can go a long way. Your guests will feel special when they receive this in their mailbox," encourages Czerlonka.

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"Encourage your guests to dress the part! There is no better reason to dress up than for an Oscar's party. You may want to suggest that they use past years 'best dressed' for inspiration in creating their own Hollywood red carpet look," says Czerlonka. This, of course, is half the fun!

"Get creative with the menu and drinks served. Consider a food theme that relates to the best movie category. Create a menu with items and cocktails that can be prepared in advance of your guests arriving. You've put all of this thought into creating a fun evening for your friends and you should be able to enjoy it with them," says Czerlonka.

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