Event planning - October 2007

Melbourne Cup

The race that stops the nation - and what better excuse for a fabulous party! This years Melbourne Cup will be held on Tuesday 6th November all going to plan so why not frock up, find the finest hat you own (mandatory), prepare some nibbles and put the bubbles on ice.

Advertisement

Melbourne Cup facts:

• The Melbourne Cup was first run on the 7th November 1861 over a distance of 2 miles.
  
  
• 17 cup winning jockeys have worn black as their main colour. Navy Blue and Royal Blue are next with 14 wins.
  
  
• Most winning number is 4 with 11 wins. Close second is 12 with 10 wins.
  
  
• Melbourne Cup winnings in 1861 were $1,420. In 2005 the figure was $5.1million.

Here are some suggestions to put together the perfect event:

1. Decide on where to hold the party. Will it be at a restaurant or someone's house? Make sure where ever it is they have a TV, after all you may need to stop admiring each other for a few minutes while the race is on.
   
   
2. Choose your guest list.
   
   
3. Decide on the dress code - is it to be Spring casual or a more formal affair.
   
   
4. Send out invitations or emails letting your guests know all the vital details. Why not have them in the shape of a horse or the Melbourne Cup itself.
   
   
5. Hold your own 'Fashions on the Field' competition with a prize for the best dressed or for a really fun task have everyone make their own hat, the more outrageous the better. Make sure you let everyone know on the invitation so they can be prepared.
   
   
6. If hosting the event at home prepare as many of the nibbles or meal beforehand so you can relax on the big day.
   
   

7. As the race is held mid afternoon some suggestions for nibbles would be:
   
   
   • Low fat dips with crackers or toasted lavash bread.
     
     
   • Mini quiches with assorted fillings. Some popular ones are chicken, leek and corn or ham, cherry tomato and parmesan cheese.
     
     
   • Assorted finger sandwiches such as smoked salmon, cream cheese, rocket, chicken, ham, mustard etc.
     
     
   • Cheese and fruit platter including dried apricots and nuts is lovely on a warm afternoon.

As well as champagne, beer and cocktails make sure you have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks such as mineral waters, juice and soft drink for those designated drivers. Why not make up some mocktails such as Crushed Peach Mocktail - all you need is crushed ice, peach nectar and soda water.

For dessert why not have chocolate dipped strawberries, individual mini lemon meringues or wine glasses with sorbet.

How about some decorations for the big day? Why not cut out some horse and jockey silhouettes out of gold and silver cardboard, balloons en masse in one colour is very effective as well as fresh flowers to really create that field feeling.

A Melbourne Cup sweep is a great party activity. Ask guests to chip in a few dollars and buy a fabulous bottle of champagne or gorgeous gift for the winner. You could also donate the winnings to your favourite charity.

Either way Melbourne Cup really is a wonderful feast of fashion and excitement so get caught up in all the magic of the event!

Next month let's talk Perfect Picnics!

Jewellery that defines
Selecting that special piece is different for everyone but no matter the budget or style, it is quality that defines. Ashley Douglas has over 50 years collective experience, specialising in quality handmade works including diamond engagement rings, wedding rings and designer pieces.

 

Inspire and enchant
Triumph is a brand that truly talks to women around the globe. It inspires and enchants and makes you feel good about yourself and your body. Whether sexy and seductive, or practical everyday wear, Triumph creates appealing must-have lingerie made to fit the women of today ... more

 

Amazing gifts delivered Australia wide
Whether it’s for family, friends or business partners Beautiful Baskets has a large selection of options from gourmet food hampers to aromatherapy gift packs, from hampers for baby to baskets for the boardroom.

Party Pacme is your complete themed Premium party goods and gifts delivered to your door Australia-Wide. Kensington Gifts is your Premium gift store delivered to your door Australia-Wide

Donna Williams Party Pacme Kensington Gifts w www.partypacme.com