Soiree genius Liz Curtis, CEO of the Fulcrum Group, shares her secrets on throwing the perfect event this year.
Food is central to one of the many events produced by the Fulcrum Group, which is based in the Bay Area.
Bay Area native Liz Curtis knows a great party when she sees one. “The best events create an intimacy that allows guests to truly experience one another,” says Curtis, who’s the CEO of the Fulcrum Group (fulcrumgroup.events) and an event-planning veteran. “The magic happens when partygoers form relationships that continue well beyond the evening of the event. Whether there are five people or 5,000, attention to detail that provides comfort and inspires conversation is critical. Also, never make your guests wait for a cocktail.”
As planning begins for 2023 events—from intimate backyard soirees to memorable galas and stunning weddings— we asked Curtis to impart her partying wisdom.
A Fulcrum Group-produced luncheon at Soho House
What should hosts keep in mind when throwing a party this year?
The rule of thumb for picking a party style is to choose what sounds like the most fun to you and run with that format. Go for substance over kitsch when choosing your theme.
Once the theme is selected, there are a few crucial elements to keep in mind. Typically, checking in with a few key guests about a date that works for them is a good way to start the planning process. From there, decide whether you want to have an intimate gathering or everyone in your Rolodex. Keep in mind that around 25% of your guest list will cancel closer to the date, so have backups in mind, particularly for seated parties.
Your invitation sets the tone for your party. Choose the method of delivery—online invitation, social media invite or a mailed invitation—and use your theme to inform your design. Send your invitation out three to six weeks before your party.
For the best chance at availability for your preferred vendors, reach out with at least three months’ notice. For a live band, I’d put in your request up to six months in advance.
The guest list and seating charts are devastatingly important for seated dinners. People like to be told where to sit and always hope to be seated next to someone either charming or interesting. If there’s one place to devote the majority of your time, devote it here.
The month of your party, create a list of everything that has to happen before your guests arrive, and then assign dates to each component. Plan to do as much as possible by the evening before your party so that you aren’t a stress case and can focus on the sartorial the day of your party.
What are some of the biggest trends you’re seeing among clients these days?
Monochrome: Singular hues are having a major moment. And I’m not talking about shades of the same color. I literally mean that every element of your decor must be the exact same. Swarovski highlighted this trend flawlessly with its Giovanna Engelbert collaboration campaign, employing bubblegum pink, apple green, lemon yellow and azure blue for its monochrome creations. This principle easily applies to entertaining—think food, beverage, florals, furniture, lighting, carpet and textiles.
Unexpected tenting: Poled and plastic tenting has been de rigueur for decades. In 2023, it’s time to up the ante with a more structural approach. Crafting a tent that presents more like a permanent structure is the pinnacle of party chic. Open-air greenhouse structures, swagged tent ceilings with glass walls and industrial trestles fit the bill.
Wildflowers: Everyone loves a peony, but in 2023 we’re steering away from the expected in search of that wow factor. Enter local wildflowers. I’m recently besotted with wildflower displays that feel as though they’re growing up from the ground wherever you place them— be it a dinner table or a grand arch. Pressed wildflower invitations, edible floral cakes and single blooms in bud vases are divine ways to tap into the trend.
Foliage: While not exactly minimalist, skipping flowers in favor of foliage provides a clean modern vibe for your event. Raised platforms topped with lush ferns are a major trend for 2023. Along more sentimental lines, use potted greens for your decor, and then plant them at home to let the memory of your party linger.
Fulcrum Group also plans extraordinary weddings of every size.
For hosting an intimate soiree in your home, what elements should be kept in mind?
Upon entry: You want to make maximum impact upon entry to your home. Waitstaff holding trays of sparkling or a signature welcome cocktail is an elegant way to ease your guests into the party.
Ambiance: Lighting and florals are the easiest way to create a comfortable atmosphere. Candles, lit fireplaces and dimmed overhead lights all convey intimacy. Fresh flowers in every room, from bathroom to kitchen, are a luxurious touch because they will lightly scent your space while adding to your aesthetic.
Rent: Literally everything you need for your event can be rented, which means minimal clean-up since rental companies universally accept your wares back unwashed. Also, less planning is involved because event rental consultants generally make sure that you have everything you need that could be overlooked.
Favors: Everyone loves a present! This isn’t a point of your party where you have to break the bank to make an impact. Chocolates are perfectly appropriate. I recommend Timothy Adams Chocolates (timothyadamschocolates.com), based in Palo Alto.
Don’t forget extra glassware, place settings, seating, throw blankets, lit candles in the bathrooms, luxury bathroom hand towels, more toilet paper than you’ll imagine you need, trash bins and snacks like mixed nuts and candy strategically placed throughout your home.
Photography by: LILETH DE GUZMAN; LILETH DE GUZMAN; GAVILAN VALE
