And the Award Goes To You: 7 Ways to Host an Award Worthy Celebration

by Gwendolyn Y. McNutt, CSEP (@gmcnuttplans)
 
Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about my bucket list; and how to make 2017 a year in which I continue to cross items off of that list. One of my life-long dreams has been to see the red carpet preview and Academy Awards live in all its glory. Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love the glitz and glamour of award season; and the wonder and mystery of who will walk away with an Oscar on awards night. However, until that day comes, I’ll be content sitting wide-eyed in front of my television with bated breath; taking in every exciting moment of the evening.
 
Oscar night is a great time to gather with other big screen enthusiasts to take in the fashion, fun and anticipation. The excitement begins in just a few short weeks, so why not enhance the fun by hosting your own Oscar festivities with a viewing party. Here are seven ways to create your own award worthy celebration for your friends on Hollywood’s biggest night.

 

1) Get Red Carpet Ready.


Ask your guests to glam it up celebrity style and set the scene with a red carpet arrival, featuring Hollywood décor such as celebrity and paparazzi cutouts or red carpets and velvet ropes. As your friends arrive, have them walk the red carpet and encourage them to take paparazzi-style selfies and share them on social media, just like a true superstar. Once your guests have made their grand entrance, keep them entertained before the show starts with some prepared activities.
 

2) Engage in Fun and Games.


The Academy Awards show promises to deliver big laughs, big wins, and probably a few surprising upsets. However, before the show kicks off, keep your guests occupied with some Oscar night games. One of my favorite games is the Oscar ballot contest. You can easily find printable ballots for the current year online; and then print them, pass them out, and collect them before the show begins. At the end of the night, the guest with the most correct predictions, wins a prize. Prizes can range from bragging rights to trinkets small and large. Now that their ballot predictions are in, your guests will want to turn their attention to their tummies.

 

3) Partake in Some Notable Noshing.

Although there is no food served during the Academy Awards, that doesn’t mean your guests have to starve. Anyway, how can you ask your guests to attend a glamorous party without a chance to sample some 5-star hors d’oeuvres and desserts? To keep it festive and fun, create a menu of Oscar themed foods that ties together pop culture and cuisine; and keep your guests noshing all night. However, don’t leave their throats dry; make sure you have some cool cocktails and mocktails to wash it all down.
 

4) Bring on the Bubbly.


Now that their tummies are filled, remember, no Oscar party is complete without libations. Wet their whistle with some staples like soda and water; but don’t forget to have a well-timed champagne toast, as well as some Oscar themed cocktails and mocktails. Another great option for Oscar party adult beverages is to partake in existing celebrity wines or cocktails like Francis Ford Coppola or Barrymore Wines. Now that you’re sipping on your much needed cocktail, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy the show; the main event is about to begin.
 

5) Tune in on February 26


Once your favorite celebrities have arrived and walked the red carpet, it’s time to settle in for the show. The 89th Academy Awards celebration will be held on Sunday, February 26 and broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood. They’ll be plenty to talk about during the show – the fashion, the fails, the jokes, and oh, the speeches! The anticipation of the night has been leading to this…an 8 ½ pound, 13 ½ inch tall, gold man.
 

6) Don’t Forget the Golden Statuette.


It wouldn’t be an Oscar viewing party without some shiny gold men, would it? Your guests have dressed to impress, walked the red carpet, and watched the Academy Awards in real time. Don’t let them leave without getting their own golden statuette. You can also use the statuettes as part of your décor to further set the mood for party. Or place them in a little bag for your guests to take home.
 

7) Bag That Swag!


Finally, it has become customary for guests of swanky events to walk away with a swag bag. Make sure your guests remember the glam of your celebration by sending them home with something to recollect the fun. While you might not be able to spring for some of the items in the over-the-top award show bag, you can still give your guests the celebrity treatment with some awesome swag of their own. Some good options to include in your bags are mini champagne or wine bottles, gourmet chocolates and popcorn, gold statuette cookies, cool grooming kits, personal pampering and maybe even a little bling. Use your imagination, and your guests will thank you for it.
 
It’s almost time for the Academy Awards and I couldn’t be more excited. I know I’ll be watching, will you?

Matt Goodman
via The Nerd Machine

http://www.nerdhq.com/and-the-award-goes-to-you-7-ways-to-host-an-award-worthy-celebration/