thePULSEA Far Cry from the Days of Tupperware
By Linnea Sheldon
As if you needed another excuse to get together with your girlfriends, home-parties have gained popularity over the last few years. These aren’t your Mom’s Tupperware parties, either. While they are set up much the same way as those parties of yore, often including a hostess showing off products that are available for purchase, the products themselves are sexier and more entertaining than ever.
Lingerie parties have been around for years, but they are getting more and more attention and the taboo that once surrounded them is all but gone. Lingerie and adult clothing parties are a hit for bachelorette parties, special occasions, and just plain old weekend fun. The events are a great way to enjoy an evening in with your girlfriends while shopping in the privacy of your own home. And just imagine the conversations that’ll arise! Local lingerie company YumDrop is currently recruiting YumDrop girls to promote sexy lingerie parties and fashion shows, so check out www.yumdrop.com for info.
Sex toys parties have really been heating up, too. Athena’s Home Novelties at www.athenashn.com brings a selection of adult toys to your home, where you can browse in a safe and comfortable environment. The lotions, novelties, and toys are designed to appeal to women, and the company’s knowledgeable Goddesses are there to give tips and answer any questions a guest may have. Anyone who saw workout guru Jackie Warner host her sex toy party on an episode of Bravo’s “Work Out” knows just how fun and naughty these parties can be! Also check out Pure Romance by Angela at www.pureromance.com for tips, toys, and more hosting ideas.
Home spa parties are a great way for girls to get together, put the stress of the work and relationships aside, and leave looking and feeling great. Some companies offer packages including manicures and pedicures, facials, massage, plus various other services. They may also sell spa products and reward the hostess with either discounts or products. Some hostesses take it upon themselves to hire their favorite massage therapists, nail technicians, and stylists. You can decorate with candles, play soft music, and offer tasty treats and wine. Whatever route you go, be sure you make all the arrangements ahead of time so you can kick back and enjoy the spa experience with your guests.
Another style of party that you can either plan by yourself or with the help of a professional is a wine tasting party. For great ideas or to track down an expert, visit a local winery. Have a budget in mind and go for a real variety of wines, maybe choosing selections from each continent or wines made from different kinds of fruits. If you choose to go it alone, be sure to do your research. Carefully select your wine varieties, label each bottle, and give a brief description and suggestions (or even samples!) of food pairings. Put out plenty of bread for between-wine pallet cleansing, and also offer cheese, the quintessential addition to any wine tasting.
Tea parties may remind you of your youth and your favorite dolls, but they’re actually a great and affordable way to spend a cozy evening with friends (a lot of people are starting to combine tea parties with book parties, too, as luxuriating over a soothing cup of tea lends itself perfectly to discussing a book). Be sure to offer a good selection of tea so even your finicky friends can find something they like. Pastries are a great addition to any tea party, and pretty dinnerware and nice decorations will go a long way in adding to the atmosphere. Check out www.teacakesandteddybears.com.
Silpada Designs is one of the most popular retailers of sterling silver jewelry, and their independent representatives will come to your house while your guests drop in and play dress-up. The no-pressure sales tactics allow for a very relaxed atmosphere, and make a great addition to any ladies night. The lack of a formal presentation makes the company unique in the home-party industry, and the unique designs are created especially for Silpada by individual artisans, which make each piece slightly different. Take a look at some of the company’s designs at www.silpada.com
Make-up parties (www.themakeupartists.com), handcrafted jewelry parties (www.jewelryboxus.com), candle parties (www.huguenotcandleco.com) ~ there is a never-ending assortment of parties ideas for any hostess. To be a successful home-party hostess be sure to take into account the interests of your guests, scheduling for maximum attendance, price-ranges of products that your friends can afford, and the amount of money and time you can afford to put into the planning. Invite a nice mix of people (what a great way for some of your friends to meet each other), have fun decorating, put out some yummy refreshments and let the fun begin!
