2009 Engagement Party

Theme parties are my favorite to decorate because it's so easy to create a festive look. For Ronda and James's Latin-themed engagement party, complete with salsa dancing class, the look will be fun and fabulous.

Set a folding table or console in an area that is far away from the dance floor. Run a printed table runner down the middle. Place the empanadas and chicken with mango salsa on dark blue serving platters. Serve the Mexican seafood cocktail in stemless martini glasses.

Stack red cocktail napkins near the pitchers of mojitos and arrange the glasses next to them. Geometric candles cast an inviting glow and a beautiful bouquet of yellow flowers adds a pop of color.

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While some parties — like a bedazzle bonanza — require nothing more than a neverending flow of bubbly, others — like a Latin-themed engagement — scream signature cocktail. When selecting a signature cocktail, be it for your engagement or wedding, it's best to choose a drink that's easy to make in batches, matches your theme, and represents your personality as a couple.

When I was planning Ronda and James's engagement, sangria was the first drink that popped into my head. However, I came across this recipe for pomelo-mint mojitos. Although it makes one drink, I will increase the proportions to make a big pitcher.

To look at the refreshing recipe, read more

Since the cake is a huge part of your wedding day, when planning the engagement party, select a dessert that is not cake based and totally different from what you want to serve on the big day.

For Ronda and James's Latin-inspired affair, I'm making caramel-coconut shortbread. Cut into rectangles or squares, it's ideal because no utensils are necessary. Although this dessert has several components, it's far from intimidating and comes together quickly. Get the easy recipe when you, read more

Two weeks ago, I was starting to panic. Wedding season was nearly upon us and I had no bride and groom. Luckily I got a call from one of my oldest friends announcing her engagement! Giddy and excited, Ronda agreed to be my featured bride. Never one to procrastinate, Ronda and her fiance, James, are ready to celebrate with an informal engagement party. They're enthusiastic dancers, so the party will revolve around a salsa dance class. Everyone will be invited to join; after the class we'll toast the couple and enjoy a buffet of spicy Latin food. The menu will be a mix of homemade and store-bought items.

Bowls of purchased guacamole and a variety of salsas are perfect for dipping when paired with crunchy tortilla chips. Beef empanadas are filling and can be mass produced in advance. Plantain chips with chicken and mojito mango salsa are festive and delicious. A Mexican seafood cocktail packed with crab and shrimp finishes up the menu. For these recipes, read more