Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Party in a Box

Everyone should have a box (plastic) container of items for an instant party. Pre-planning and organization is key. Keep these boxes in your closet, garage or storage room for easy access, and separate boxes by seasons/holidays – winter, spring, summer and fall. Sales after every holiday season are great opportunities to stock up for the following year.

1. Tablecloths
   • Basic colors – White, cream, burgundy, etc.
   • Keep a small selection of loose fabric for accenting pieces
   • Varying textures – Cotton, linen, silk, damask, etc.
2. Napkins
   • Basic colors, materials and textures
3. Napkin holders
   • Coordinate with tablecloth and napkins
   • Ribbons of varying colors and textures to tie around napkins
4. Risers
   • Provide tiers for platters, flowers, candles, etc.
   • Invest in one complete set
   • Substitute with tupperware or stack books
5. Floral Containers
   • Clear glass – square or round
   • Spray paint in gold or silver
   • Recycle and keep a collection of containers you’ve received from the past
6. Candles
   • Varying sizes – 1”–12”
   • Varying shapes – round and square
   • Varying colors – white, cream, red, etc.
7. Supplies
   • Shears
   • Scissors
   • Gaffer tape and painters tape
   • Glue gun
   • Pearl pins
8. Plasticeware storage box
   • Always available and stocked for the casual impromtu gathering
   • Buy in bulk
   • Clear plastic plates goes with everything
   • Keep ziplocks of forks, spoons, knives
9. Assorted picture frames
   • Varying sizes, shapes and colors
   • Use as table seating cards or display menus, etc.