Party Theme: Bring Your Own Plate

Need a theme for a housewarming party?  Take a cue from the old saying  "Bring Your Own Bottle" and throw a Bring Your Own Plate Party.  This is a prefect party for a someone moving out for the first time or someone newly divorced who needs dinnerware.

Each guest is asked to bring a plate for the new home owner. You can vary it by asking guests to each bring a plate, glass, and coffee cup.  Be sure to specify this on the party invitations you send. To add a little extra fun, have the guest bring food on the plates with recipes attached to the back.  They can bring items like home-made brochette, cheese and crackers,  mini sandwiches, cupcakes, pies, or even a whole meatloaf.  Leaving the food choices up to the guests and their culinary specialties makes for a fun surprise.

For decorations, create a table centerpiece by purchasing flatware, some ribbon and some flowers.  Group the knives in a bundle leaving an open center and tie them tightly with the ribbon. In the center place a few items of the flower of your choice. Buy a  short vase to hold the spoons and forks. Place flowers inside or around the vases.  Since the flowers will be without water during the party, wait until the last moment to add them to the centerpieces.

You can vary this party idea in so many ways.  Maybe they need furniture.  Ask guest to give a piece of furniture they no longer use.  The party would then change to "Bring Your Own Chair", or a "Bring Your Own Wall Art".

It all depends on the needs of the honoree. The concept is to help set up a new home, have some fun and make memories. I love the idea of an eclectic mix of plates and cups. Each individual item represents the friends and family of the honoree.  After all, memories of family and friends help make a house your home.

Wedding and Party Network is happy to bring you this party planning idea. Also, a special thanks to PittyPat's Porch, an Atlanta GA Caterer for the use of their southern Georgia Gumbo picture.