Customer Reviews

Party Confidential

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this book after reading all the glowing reviews - I was looking for some truly creative and inspiring new ideas for parties however I am completely unimpressed with this book. Granted the photograph's are lovely and show the celebrities enjoying themselves but there is no depth to the theme suggestions, menus, decorations etc. I returned the book because I do not need another copy of same old, same old.

As one who loves to collect party planning books, I was very disappointed with this one. It had a lot of pictures of Hollywood parties so if that's what you're trying to replicate - you're in luck. It contained a fraction of the recipes for the menus they suggested. Most of the parties shown were quite extravagant - not for the typical party thrower.

The reviewers complaining that the book has photos of celebrities and lavish, pricey parties completely miss the point. This book is for inspiration. You don't have to copy the use of a Tiffany silver tray. Anyone can take the party themes in this book and use the inspiration to adapt the ideas to suit their budget and needs. My favorite thing about this book is the way it makes suggestions to cover all the many details: decor, music, invitations, food, favors, etc. A lot of books on entertaining don't bother - they either give you a generalized description of a party or a bunch of recipes as if there's nothing more to a party than that. I'm inspired by this book. Similar presentation to InStyle Parties, another fantastic book.

As a seasoned event planner, I find that most books in the entertaining genre often skimp on pertinent event details and lack a wide range of innovative themes.

That said, I was reasonably pleased with "Party Confidential" as I felt it went into depth with respect to each event and theme and featured beautiful accompanying photographs that illustrated the unique experiences evoked.

My only criticism was that the name dropping could have been downplayed a bit.

Overall, I would recommend this book for amateur and professional party planners alike who are looking for themes/ideas to tantalize all five senses.

Want to party like a movie star? That's easy. Just let Party Confidential by Laura Shriftman and Elizabeth Harrison show you how. From soup to nut(cups), this book is - without a doubt - the consumate guide to super high-level entertaining. Want to see how Juicy Couture does a Beverly Hills pool party? Done. Didn't get to attend Paris Hilton's fragrance launch but want to do something cool like it in your own city? Read this book. Not only does this book show inspiring photos to show you how to duplicate all the success from these events for your own parties, but it also offers very practical advice, too. Like why you should always use dimmers at parties... because people look - and feel - sexier in low lighting. And why color is important at parties. Or how the presentation of food and drink can make or break an event. It's a non-stop, extremely glamorous look at the world of celebrity party giving written by the world's formost experts, Ms. Shriftman and Ms. Harrison. It will soon become the favorite book on your coffee table.

Throughout my lifetime, I have been to a few parties that I would consider "amazing." I have also always dreamed of throwing an off-the-wall party that has everyone talking for months--and then having them try to beat my party.

I read through Party Confidential wide-eyed. The two women, Laura Shriftman and Elizabeth Harrison, can truly say they have thrown not only one incredible party--but dozens! Such parties included a Juicy Contour fashion party, Serena Williams' birthday party, and Tweety Bird's anniversary party. Each of their glamorous parties included popular appearances from stars.

Although this book portrays parties that may have cost thousands, it is a great source for party inspiration. The authors include great party tips, etiquette, and host/hostess idea gifts. They also include ideas on how you can throw their glamorous parties on your budget. I must mention several recipes and drink mixes are included in the back of the book.

So whether you want to throw a kid-inspired candy party or a mature, Indian-themed party, this is the book for you. The best thing is the several bright, juicy pictures.

If you read this book and do not either crave to throw a beautiful bash, or desire to attend one of the author's parties, then you must be a party pooper!

Armchair Interviews says: If you like to entertain, ideas abound.

I love throwing parties - for friends or just to get together and I am always looking for great ideas to wow my guests. Well, this book has got the goods! It is filled with great ideas that you can easily encorporate! I have other party planning books and many of the suggestions in those books are too cheesy, too fussy, too much work or just not realistic. This book has ideas that not only are easily doable - but also practical, clever and affordable! It's just simply a great book!

Public Relations moguls Lara Shriftman and Elizabeth Harrison have done it again! In their second entertaining book, Party Confidential, the girls deliver countless tips, recipes, budget saving secrets, and gorgeous glossy photos of celebrities, decor, flowers, and fabulous food! Planning an unforgettable party for your own friends or family is made easy with the fresh & easy ideas in this book. Plus, who can resist sneaking a peek inside some of the star-studded events this party powerhouse has put together? Buy this book as a perfect holiday gift...but you'll probably keep it for yourself!

Party Confidentail is the most clever and creative entertaining book! It is easy and fun. The pictures are beautiful and there are tasty recipes. This kind of book can show you how to do anything from a simple dinner party to fundraiser to the launch of a new product. It is a must!

If you love to throw parties or attend them, this book is perfect for you! This book gives a unique insight to the do's and don'ts of party planning and entertaining. Not only does it offer tips for party hosts, but also for guests. It's a 21st century version of Emily Post, answering all of your tricky questions on the modern etiquette!