Style at Home: What separates you from other party planners out there?
Preston Bailey: Twice a year, I try to come up with a different approach, design and source of inspiration - much like a fashion designer. For instance, at the Paris fashion shows, which I attended this year, I was inspired by deep purples, and the layering of couture gowns. I'll incorporate both elements in upcoming events.
S@H: Where else do you draw inspiration from?
PB: Nature. Once, when I was in Washington, D.C., during cherry-blossom weekend, I got the idea of creating an event with that same feeling of plenty, so I covered the space I was designing in cherry blossoms. Another time, a forest of fall leaves inspired me to fill a room with fall colours for an autumn wedding.
S@H: As a trend, is outdoor entertaining growing?
PB: Yes. Whether it's for a wedding or another big event, a dramatic backdrop, like an ocean or a grove, is appealing. Outdoor entertaining can be challenging, though.
S@H: What are the toughest challenges?
PB: The weather. Everyone hopes it's going to be a beautiful day; better to prepare for the worst. In summer, have fans in case of a scorcher. In spring, have heat lamps on hand. Make sure there's shade in case it's a sunny day. Big beach umbrellas are cheap and easy; just imagine 30 of them in bright colours spread out on a lawn.
Ask yourself questions like, Is the event sited properly? Can people, especially women in high heels, walk? If not, lay down some colourful turf. And beware of bugs. I once had a party on a Caribbean island, and before sundown, the island became infested with mosquitoes. We'd noticed them earlier, so we were prepared. There are non toxic sprays you can use in advance, and sonic machines that keep bugs away for hours and don't harm the environment.
Image courtesy of Preston Bailey Designs.
Click here for Preston Bailey's party planning tips.
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