Staging is one of the most important aspects when creating an atmosphere for a successful party. Usually a day before the party I scour the house for breakables, valuables and tight corners. I remove a few antique rugs (to reduce the threat of spills) and realign furniture in order to create zones; while my dining room may look a little barren, I remove all of the chairs into other rooms, it will be ablaze with food. Also place any decorations out a day before, this will help twofold, you won't drive yourself crazy the day of the party (you'll also be free for more pressing matters), and it will also clue in special requirements such as heavy banners that require extra support, or time to iron out wrinkles in tablecloths if neccessary.
Now themes make it easy, but don't get carried away. Treat any place setting like you would your china - there is too much of a good thing. Just because the same decorations are preprinted on 5in, 8in, and 12in plates, and matching napkins, does not mean you have to buy them. This year I have followed a skeleton motif. I usually shop at Target, Walmart, and World Market, as well as the corner grocer. Keep you eye's open and you will find some non traditional touches and great deals.
I also do a dry run for lighting, especially for Halloween as I incorporate black lights for effect. In this case, with low wattage lighting, and flickering candlelight, no one notices the rugs were removed, but I can rest in peace knowing that no one will trip, and cleanup is a breeze. No bones about it!
Photo Courtesy of Grandin Road
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