AboutPatty Sachs Expertise Anything about planning parties for weddings, showers, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations,retirements, bar/bat mitzvahs, business promotions, fund raisers, and civic events. If I cannot answer I will direct you to the answer.
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Question my sister and I are palnning a surprise birthday party for my mother who will turn 70. I was thinking a black and white theme and were unsure of decoration or to make it formal or semi-formal do not which to make it to expisive for her friend to come.
Answer Black and white is usually linked to a formal/semiformal theme, as in tuxedos, etc. That is definitely adding a limitation for your guests. We don't like to make it too much of an effort for folks to come to a party--almost like a costume party. Unless it is all women...then it is a dandy theme.
There are a lot of themes that are generic and give the guests an easy way to stay with them. Couple of my favorites:
Hats off to...
Everyone wears a hat that reflects their personality. You will be amused at the variety of hats you will see...a fun, casual party. At some point guests swap hats with each other...that is a fun and funny scene.
She's a Real Jewel...
Decorations and every detail are done in beautiful JewelTones...guests can wear those colors...easy to do. This is a very pretty party. Have each guest/couple write a "Gem" of a wish, story, memory about your Mom and read them during the party. Make up a booklet of photos and those wishes as a wonderful keepsake.
Just do what your mom would be comfortable with...if she is a casual person, by all means keep it so. It is her day to be totally at ease and relaxed.
Best of luck to you in your plan...
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