The Perfect Music Playlist for a Dinner Party

Music is that silent guest to a party that’s not particularly invited but has the ability to make or break a party. The background score, if decided meticulously, can level up your party. Think about it, when you step out for a meal and the food is great, so are the cocktails but the music is completely off; you might stretch through the meal but not come back again, right?

So it’s the festive season and you’re hosting a dinner party at your place. You have everything in place – from the theme to the decor to the food and even the games! It’s time to complete it by setting up just the right music. You’re in luck, we’ve got you a mix of few different playlists with artist recommendations that you can mix and match depending on the mood and theme of your party.

 

The Perfect Music Playlist for a Dinner Party

 

Go Low-fi R&B 

Now, music is just a side yet important guest at your party, so it cannot be loud and overtake the evening, leaving your guests shouting to have a conversation. Low-fi R&B is your saviour here. It’s mostly soothing beats with minimal lyrics. Artists like Janet Jackson, Baby Rose have the perfect music for this mood. 

To make things easier, we’ve got you a ready playlist. Before you play it make sure, you have an ad-free version of the application you’re streaming the music on. 

Make it fancy with Jazz 

If you’re hosting a party which has a menu with wine, cheese and the likes, then you need music that’s slightly nuanced and may we say, a tad old school. What better than some Jazz tunes to set the evening into motions. 

You can go classic on this one with artists like Louis Armstrong, Nat King Kole, Frank Sinatra or new-age Jazz artists who bring a little funk to this style like Tom Misch, Ezra Collective etc. Here’s your playlist which would perfectly blend in any party. 

 

dinner party ideas

 

Paint it Blue

The most classic and known from the lot, Blues music is something that’s heard by everyone at some point in their life. There are multiple types of blues; depending on the theme of your party, you can select the artists. We’d recommend Janis Joplin, BB King, Eric Clapton. 

You can pick an artist and use the Radio feature on the application and it’ll make you a ready playlist. Make sure you keep the volume in check on this one. Alternatively, here’s a playlist we’ve found for you. 

Soft Rock for the dancers 

If your dinner party is something which intends to keep people on their toes, then soft rock is what would get the feet moving. The thumb rule here is to go with the classics, cause no matter, everyone’s heard these once in their lifetime. Sting, Queen, David Bowie, mix the bag with some new age artists like FKJ, Masego, The Strokes etc. Here’s the perfect playlist to get you started.

Low-key bollywood for the soul

If we turn the clock back a little, bollywood got us some soulful classics that will always remain evergreen. At a dinner party, if you intend to stir some nostalgia up, prepare a playlist with the music of all the maestros – Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, R.D Burman, AR Rahman and the likes. 

No matter the generation, everyone’s heard these songs and this would make for a great sing along party! How about a ready playlist for you? 

 

You can always keep a mix bag and keep switching between playlists depending on the mood of the party and how it escalates. Here’s a pro-tip – if it’s an intimate gathering, ask your guests before the party to share their top 5 songs with you and combine all to make a playlist. 

7 Innovative Date Ideas

While we agree, planning a date can sometimes be quite a task – we mean there is so much at stake right? Setting an impression, being thoughtful, finding the middle ground and in the end, wanting to also make someone feel special!

What if we told you, we’re about to make your life a whole lot easier? After a whole lot of research, we’ve put together a great bunch of ideas that are not the regular run-of-the-mill. After this, your date is definitely going to go aww or wow.

The arcade guns come out

Mixing nostalgia and adrenaline is always a good idea! Get on the floor, challenge your date to an intense game of alien attack or just dance your way through on the dance dance revolution stage. To a notch higher on the competitiveness and play a game of bowling or ice hockey!

 

7 Innovative Date Ideas

 

 

 

The joy of winning a toy or those coupons is unmatchable and will definitely make for a fun day or evening out.

P.S. It’s a great way to also find out how your date acts when they lose.

 

 

 

Go close to nature

If you live in the city, it feels great to get a breath of fresh air and just be around something green or blue. If your date is up for it, you could also plan a short hike or a drive to a place 2-3 hours away from the city.

Nature makes for a great place to connect
with someone, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and guess what? It’s absolutely free of cost.

 

date ideas

 

Bring out that bathroom singer

Karoke’s are always fun! Are we right or are we right? Find a spot, get those drinks in and sing your hearts out. Being goofy might just win you some extra points here, so sing straight from your heart.

Make sure you feel that pain when you go – I want it that way!

 

date ideas for young couples

 

Show your inner nerd

Remember those museum and planetarium trips that were a part of the school field trip. Back then the proposition of spending a day out of class seemed very fascinating! Find the museums in your city and plan a tour of them. Geek out on knowledge together and find out something you both didn’t know earlier.

A movie hop

Does your date enjoy cinema? The smell of popcorn, the samosas which are weirdly addictive and getting lost in a different world for a couple of hours?

Check out the movies that are playing, create a mix of genres, throw in a surprise one in the bag as well.

 

movie date

 

Make a meal together

Food definitely brings people closer! Sign up for a cookery class and battle it out in the kitchen with your partner. This also makes a great testing ground for their patience, humility and other skills.

Food hall organizes them quite often and you can check them out here.

 

romantic date ideas

 

Channel your inner artist

Yes, it’s time to flaunt your skills or laugh over just how bad your artistic sensibilities are. Take your partner our for a sip and paint date where you’re given a canvas, a bunch of paints and lots of drinks – yes you read that right!

Check out their instagram page and get planning! – @sipandpaintindia

So yes, date ideas can get exhausting! We mean there is only so much food you can eat and cocktails you can drink! These unconventional ideas are also easy on your pocket and will definitely impress your date if you play all your cards right.

7 Thoughtful Gifts for People Over Seventy

Gifting the elderly isn’t always easy, but there are many thoughtful gifts for older adults that can make their day. Whether you’re looking for gift ideas for older loved ones or unique gifts for the elderly, it’s important to be practical and realistic. The key is to ask yourself if they’d be comfortable using your gift and if it adds value to their life.

Being practical and realistic is the key to nailing the perfect gift for your elder loved ones. Ask yourself if they’d be comfortable using your gift and if it adds value to their life, and chances are that you’ve truly made their day.

Anyhoo, the festive season is well underway and we have curated a comprehensive gifting guide for choosing a special gift for your older loved ones. Happy shopping!

1. A Fancy Fruit Basket

Upgrade from a run-of-the-mill bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates, and gift a fresh and seasonal fruit basket instead. A basket of fruits can be a really sweet surprise, especially if they love to whip some tart jams & pies.  

The gift is zero waste, healthy, sustainable, and oh-so-gorgeous! Here are some of our favorite gifting sites that offer luscious fruit baskets that you can gift your loved ones (psst, they provide delivery service too!): Flora India, Bloomsvilla and floweraura.com

 

7 Thoughtful Gifts for People Over Seventy

 

2. Skincare or Selfcare

Any form of selfcare is one of the most meaningful gifts for seniors you can give your loved ones.. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful in their own skin, especially when they’ve spent so many years living life’s adventures! Gifting your elderly loved one a special, curated skincare routine will not only serve as a sweet reminder of their beauty but will also make them feel loved and cared for. India has some spectacular organic, conscious, and clean beauty products in the market, here are some of our best picks. 

7 Thoughtful Gifts for People Over Seventy
Pahadi Beauty Secrets by Pahadi Local

 

 

Gentlemen’s Collection by Forest Essentials
Gentlemen’s Collection by Forest Essentials

 

 

Radiance Gift Box by Kama Ayurveda

 

 

3. A Gift of Style

Older people can be a little humble when it comes to shopping for a new wardrobe. They may like to play a little safe or feel a little left out by modern means of online shopping. But that doesn’t mean their trendy young kids can’t introduce them to their sunny new summer dress, trusty pair of new trousers, or their favorite new jumper. Surprise your older loved ones with a gift card from some exciting new fashion brands, that they wish they’d known earlier. Sharing a couple of our favorite picks below!

 

‘Let’s Heal the World’ Gift Card by No Nasties
Let’s Heal the World’ Gift Card by No Nasties

 

 

Custom Trousers or Gift Card by The Pant Project
Custom Trousers or Gift Card by The Pant Project

 

 

4. Gardening Tools

Gardening is one of the most grounding, fulfilling & rewarding activities to do. Everyone knows at least one elderly person who loves to garden their patch of green or grow their own little balcony paradise. Here are two sleek & sophisticated gardening tool kits from Nappa Dori to gift your elderly relative with a green thumb. 

 

Gardening Tool Kit by Nappa Dori
Gardening Tool Kit by Nappa Dori

 

Mini Gardening Tools by Nappa Dori
Mini Gardening Tools by Nappa Dori

 

5. Board Games!

Board games will always remain a classic when it comes to gifting, no matter what age you’re looking at. Remind your elderly loved ones of the good old times by gifting some fun board games that get them all feeling frivolous & feisty! Spreeh recommends Scrabble, Solitaire, Boggle, or Chess to help you choose (click on the hyperlink to shop!).

You can take the extra mile and sprinkle some fun onto their weekend plans by organizing a game night for them and their friends.

 

Board Games
Board Games

 

6. Audible Subscription or Audiobook!

Audiobooks have the potential to become cherished gift for the elderly. They can cheer up adults looking for comfort and provide a sense of connection with the world around them. Packed with myriad stories that they can summon with a few taps, the audiobooks will keep their imagination running wild, free, and curious! 

You can get them an Audible Subscription on their go-to device, or gift them the audiobook version of their favourite read!

 

7. A New Experience

If you really wish to take them by surprise, gift them a new experience. We’re never too old to learn something new. Whether it’s a first yoga class, or a dance lesson after ages, or a first-time visit to a pottery studio, there’s no better way to treat your inner child then picking up something new! 

Gift them a fun art & craft or singing course, or book them and their friends a new cookery class with a trained chef. If you’d like to go digital, Udemy and MasterClass are two academies that have a host of courses you can choose from!

 

7 Thoughtful Gifts for People Over Seventy

 

In conclusion, choosing the perfect gift for your elderly loved ones can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering practicality, adding value to their lives, and focusing on thoughtful gestures, you can give them a special surprise that will make their day. From fancy fruit baskets to skincare and self-care products, from gardening tools to audiobooks and new experiences, there are plenty of options to choose from. With the right gift, you can show your older loved ones just how much you care for them.

5 Cute Couple Games for Anniversary Parties

Are you on the lookout for some fun couple games for your anniversary party that you, your partner, and your guests will enjoy? Look no further! Here are five romantic activities that will add laughter, tension, and romance to your special night.

#1 Not-So-Newlywed

Best suited for couples who’ve been together for a while, this party game is to be played amongst a group of people celebrating a special couple in their lives. There’s bound to be a mini-debate at some point of the night, but rest assured it shall be in good humor!

How to Play

  • Prepare questions about the life of the celebrating couple.
  • Ask one spouse to leave the room, and ask these questions from the other spouse.

 

Not-So-Newlywed

 

# 2 Marriage/Dating Advice

Nobody’s a fan of unsolicited advice, but throw in some humor with a dash of friendly competition and you have yourself a game that can make some hilarious revelations. This game can be played with multiple couples, and you might end up with a stash of relationship building games advice at the end of the day.

How to Play

  • Place some blank pieces of paper on a table
  • Ask your guests to write down advice that they have for their spouse (it can also be general advice about usual everyday things)
  • Have the spouses try to figure out which advice came from their partner!

 

Marriage/Dating Advice

 

#3 Couples Taboo

An anniversary party regular, Couples Taboo is a popular game that can be played with as many couples as you’d like. The game relies on teamwork created through shared experiences and has the potential to heighten some welcome tension.

How to Play

  • Pick a card from the deck provided in a Taboo Set (You can buy a couple’s edition Taboo game here!)
  • Explain the guess word to your partner without using the related taboo or forbidden words listed on the card.
  • You have to drop clues so that your partner can guess the word, else, you lose a point

If nothing else, you’d probably have a great many useful pieces of advice at the end of the day!

 

Couples Taboo

 

#4 Guess the Power Couple

An ever #trending game that gets the night going. This is a carefree and lighthearted date night game that’s engaging and easy to play!

How to Play:

  • Write the names of famous couples on labels.
  • Stick the label on the man/ woman’s back.
  • That person will ask their partner questions about famous couples to guess the couple whose name is written on their back.
  • The partner has to answer the question with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
  • The person who guesses correctly wins the game!

 

Guess the Power Couple

 

#5 Never Have I Ever

If you’re looking to heat up the mood, Never Have I Ever is always a reliable classic. The game always ends up dishing out a few secrets and never fails to send some thrills. This fun date idea is suitable for long-distance couples too!

How to Play:

  • Get all the couples to sit in a circle.
  • Each person has to go by line and make any one statement starting with ‘never have I ever’.
  • All those who have take a sip of their drink and all those who haven’t, don’t. It’s a great way to get to know everyone at your party and get them all a little tipsy. 

 

Never Have I Ever

 

Incorporating these love games into your anniversary party is an excellent way to strengthen the bond between you and your partner. So, get ready for some laughter, tension, and romance!

 

Elevate your Gifting Game with these 90s Themed Gift Ideas

Level up your gifting game by adding some fun 90s nostalgia. The era-defining decade featured some cool, one-of-a-kind items that quickly turned into crowd favorites. Read on to know what Spreeh recommends for 90s-themed gifts that will pleasantly surprise anyone who was a kid in the 90s.

The Quintessential 90s Slip Dress

The super-model favorite slinky slip dress had taken the runways by storm and no nineties closet was ever complete without it. And truth be told, it gracefully evolved into an evergreen classic that makes for a fashionable gift. Surprise a stylish 90s baby with the classic slip dress that’s guaranteed to be a forever favorite! Here are some of our favorite picks:

Opal Slip Dress by Forever New

Rust Knit Slip Dress by The Label Life

Seraphina Slip Dress by Āroka

Classic Black Slip Dress by H&M

A Custom Mixtape 

As the world began to grow closer and music started to become more accessible (by 90s standards ofc), the nineties started to become a hotbed for self-expression and creativity. And the mixtape was a cool, artsy little token that was at the center of it all. People made mixtapes for their friends, lovers, and crushes alike, and you can totally surprise a 90s baby with a mix of some favorite throwback tunes.

Wondering how to make a mixtape in 2022? You can order custom mixtape cassettes via Etsy. In case a cassette player is hard to come by, you can always make a 90’s inspired playlist with a cute little note on Spotify, Sound Cloud, Apple Music, Gaana, etc.

Image via Etsy

Image via Spotify

The PlayStation Classic

You cannot think of 90s nostalgia without some classic video games that gripped the imaginations of kids growing up in the nineties. The PlayStation Classic comes pre-loaded with popular video games from the nineties such as Final Fantasy Vll, Jumping Flash, Tekken 3, Twisted Metal, and Grand Theft Auto. You can buy the PlayStation Classic on Amazon or Etsy

Image via Google

Image via Google

Throwback 90s Games 

Nineties games were not to be taken lightly, they could keep your focus for hours at end and you likely got into a fight or two over them. Dare we recommend some classic nineties games to gift a friend who loves to host game nights? We’ve rounded up a few options on the internet that sure does make it hard to say no.

Ridley’s “That’s So 90s” Trivia Game via Amazon

Downloadable 90s Jeopardy via Etsy

90’s Box with Uno, SUP Game Box & Goodies

Sprinto Sup Game Box via Amazon

Old-School 90s Stationary 

#FunFact: Colorful stationery has not excited people! Stationary is safe but oh-so-useful gifting idea that everybody can appreciate, especially when you jazz it up with some funky 90’s inspired supplies for a 90’s baby that’s all grown up.

You can curate a cute ’90s stationary gift hamper by shopping for some back to school office supplies here or on Etsy!

90s Stickers via Etsy

90s Vintage Metallic Pencils via Etsy 

Vintage Japanese Erasers via Etsy 

1998 Hello Kitty Letter Set via Etsy

Retro Team Jerseys 

Retro jerseys are all the rage right now, having made a comeback through vintage-inspired streetwear. They’re cool, classic, and packed with passionate nostalgia. Don’t think twice about this one because you can’t really go wrong with gifting a retro jersey to a 90s sports fan. Here are some of our favorite picks on the internet!

INDIA Cricket Polo Jersey via Etsy

Retro Arsenal Jersey 1993-93 via Jersey Street

Mexico Retro 1998 Football Jersey via Amazon

Beautiful Birthday Cakes from Bombay’s Best Cake-Makers

The Birthday Cake is a special entity. Your birthday cake has been telling your story ever since you were little. You’ve probably cut a cake that’s embodied your childhood fascination or one that’s been tailor-made to indulge your favorite flavors. For some, their cake is the most heartfelt piece of their party, while for some it is the show-stopping décor of the night. Either way, the birthday cake is undoubtedly the undisputed essential for birthday gatherings, big and small.

Here’s a round-up of Mumbai’s best cake-makers that will leave planning your birthday cake irrespective of the date!

Toujours (since 1985)

A patisserie & cake studio by Alpa Pereira, Toujours specializes in artsy birthday cakes that exude light-hearted fun and warmth. They’re known for making some really creative and on-theme designs for kids and are just as skillful in whipping up delicate, ethereal cakes as well.

Order online






Images via Toujours Instagram

Deliciae

A popular confectionary run by Bunty Mahajan, Deliciae makes some gorgeously tiered masterpieces that can effortlessly double up as birthday décor. Scroll on to see what makes them celebrity favorites!

Order online






Images via Deliciae Instagram

Pastelitos

Run by head chefs Juveria and Zainab, Pastelito is a confectionary that makes some adorable, on-theme birthday cakes for kids and adults alike! Whether it’s a unicorn cake or a pop-art creation, Pastelitos cakes will without a doubt, blow you away!

Call to order: 9619818106






Images via Pastelitos Instagram

J Bakes

J Bakes by Juilee is a cake artist and content creator based out of Mulund West, Mumbai. Juilee bakes some beautifully crafted cakes and has an impeccable eye for detail. Her cake art is incredibly neat and can effortlessly work as your party installation.

Pre-order the cake four days in advance.

Call to order: 9930473779






Images via J Bakes Instagram

Maryam’s Cakery

A premium dessert studio that crafts custom cakes, dessert tables, and hampers, Maryam’s Cakery have a deliciously divine-looking portfolio. They also make these adorable bento cakes that are perfect for surprising a loved one!

Call to order: 7039336134





Images via Maryam’s Cakery’s Instagram

The Better Binge

Another celebrity favourite on the list! The Better Binge by chef Juhi Pawar makes artisanal cakes that are homemade, healthy, FSSAI-approved, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.

Call to order: 9819154095






Images via The Better Binge Instagram

Easy-to-Make Cocktails for Your Next Hosting Gig

When it comes to stealing the show, cocktails have a stylish appeal. They can glam up the night with effortless ease, and are elegant members of the complete dinner party checklist. However, it is more than understandable if one feels intimidated or overwhelmed by the idea of serving a cocktail menu at their house party dinner.

But here’s what we’re here to tell you, cocktails are far more simple and easy to shake than what a rookie may think. Don’t get us wrong, a mixology is an art form indeed, but it is certainly one that can start right here, at home.

Presenting a diverse little round-up of seven easy-to-make cocktails to blow your dinner guests away!

Peach Bellini for Something Sweet

Sparkling, effervescent bubbles add to the romantic charm of this summery drink. The Peach Bellini is a universally loved cocktail that feels light & refreshing. Read on to know about everything you need for the perfect Peach Bellini

Glass: Champagne Flute

Ingredients:

  • 2 Ripe Peached (seeded & diced)
  • Lemon Juice 15 ml
  • Sugar 5 gm
  • Chilled Prosecco Sparkling Wine

Method:

  • Blend the peaches, lemon juice, and sugar in a small food processor.
  • Strain the mixture through the sieve and discard the peach solids.
  • Place two tablespoons of the peach puree into a champagne glass and fill it with chilled prosecco.


Images via Amanda’s Cookin

The Strange Gibson for Something Savoury

A cocktail by one of India’s cool & contemporary gins, Stranger & Sons, the Strange Gimlet is a heady tribute to Indian gastronomy’s pickling culture. Deliciously layered and divinely aromatic, read on to know everything you need for the perfect Strange Gimlet.

Glass: Coupette

Ingredients:

  • Stranger & Sons Gin 50 ml
  • Dry Vermouth 10 ml
  • Pickled Onion Brine 15 ml
  • Pickled Onion for Garnish

Method:

  • Pour all the ingredients into a large mixing glass.
  • Stir thoroughly before pouring the concoction into a coupette glass.


Images via Stranger & Sons Instagram

The Peruwalla for a Homegrown Flavour

Inspired by the quintessential taste of the India peru fruit, this special cocktail is tart, fun and lively in spirit. Here’s all you need to shake it up!

Glass: Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

  • Stranger & Sons Gin 60 ml
  • Peru Saccharum 17.5 ml
  • Lime Juice 20 ml
  • Salt, Chilli & Sugar Powder Mix for Garnish

Method:

  • Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker.
  • Shake with ice and fine strain in an old-fashioned glass rimmed with the chili mix.


Images via Stranger & Sons Instagram

The Classic Negroni for a Candlelit Affair

The famous Negroni makes for a satisfying drink with a scrumptious meal. Its subtle bitters help ease the heaviness of aged cheese. Ditch the usual wine and elevate your candlelit Italian date with a classic Negroni (pair best with the Penne Four Cheese pasta!)

Glass: Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

  • Gin 25 ml
  • Sweet Vermouth 25 ml
  • Campari 25 ml
  • Slice of Orange for Garnish

Method:

  • Pour the gin, vermouth, and Campari into a mixing glass or jug with ice.
  • Stir well until the outside of the glass feels cold.
  • Strain into a tumbler and add 1 large ice sphere or some fresh ice
  • Garnish with an orange slice (we recommend using blood orange when in season).


Images via Pinterest

Whiskey Highball for a Heady Night

Its strength and simplicity are what make the Whiskey Highball a much-loved classic. The distinct pairing of whiskey and ginger ale gets an exciting punch with a powerful garnish. Read on for the recipe!

Glass: Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

  • Whiskey 60 ml
  • Ginger Ale 100 ml
  • Use Cinnamon, Rosemary, Aniseed, or Bergamot to Garnish

Method:

  • Fill a highball glass with ice.
  • Add whisky and ginger ale and stir gently.
  • Crush the garnish on top and serve immediately


Images via Pinterest

El Presidente for a Night that Feels Young

Although not as widely known as its Mojito or Daiquiri counterparts, this Cuban rum cocktail is a sleek and sophisticated special cocktail in its own right. Subtly bitter with sweet and citrus notes, this nuanced cocktail is the kind that you never forget.

Glass: Martini or Cocktail Glass

Ingredients:

  • White Rum 60 ml
  • Dry Vermouth 22 ml
  • Orange Curacao 7 ml
  • A Dash of Grenadine

Method:

  • Add the white rum, dry vermouth, orange curacao, and grenadine to a mixing glass with ice
  • Stir well until chilled
  • Strain into a chilled cocktail glass


Images via acouplecooks

Espresso Martini to the End the Night On a High

A cocktail that can also double up as a dessert! The Espresso Martini is the perfect drink of choice for when you want to top off the night on a thrilling high. Here’s everything you need for this feisty drink.

Glass: Stemmed  Martini Glass

Ingredients:

  • Vodka 60 ml
  • Coffee Liqueur 15 ml (we recommend Bailey’s or Kahlua)
  • Espresso 30 ml
  • Coffee Beans for Garnish
  • Sugar Syrup for Sweetening

Method:

  • Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and sugar syrup to a shaker filled with ice and shake until well chilled
  • Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
  • Garnish with whole or crushed coffee beans


Do you get anxious when you mix your social groups?  Here are some fun party icebreakers to ease it.

Let’s be real, being a host isn’t exactly guaranteed to be stress-free. This sentiment is amplified tenfold when you’re tasked with mixing two equally cherished friend groups who are more or less strangers to one another.

The thought of having their college friends meet their work friends, or god forbid, be in the same room as their slightly unhinged school friends is pretty much the perfect recipe for disaster (irrespective of the comedy gold it may produce!).

But a good host always has a trick or two up their sleeve to cut through the tension and ease the party with some cool and slick icebreakers. Read on to know about a few fun party icebreaker games for when your two worlds collide!

Two Truths and a Lie

Have everyone in your meeting share two things about themselves that are true, and one thing that is a lie. Then have the rest of the team try to guess which is the lie. There are no rules to this game, everyone’s allowed to let their imaginations run wild and free (as long as nobody gets hurt of course).

Draw Thy Neighbour

A sure-shot way to fish out any Picasso’s in the mix, Draw Thy Neighbour is a fun little activity that applauds everybody’s imagination and pardons everybody’s drawing skills! Just hand out a pencil and sketchbook and let the storytelling begin.

Dream Celebrity Dinner Guests

This is the typical “Who’s my dream dinner guest?” game, with a twist! To add a twist to the game, have each participant explain why they’d like that particular celebrity to come for dinner. Be prepared for some wild answers though!

Charades

It’s a classic that we all know all too well. Charades bring out the competition, laughs, and entertainment that you wouldn’t think a party to be capable of.

Divide the guests into two teams; one member of each team has to “act out” a phrase without speaking, while the other members of your team try to guess what the phrase is. You can add a theme like “Movies”, “Books”, or “Songs” to make it clearer.

10 Things I Like About You

This game is all about finding out who’s destined to be your party pal. Divide the guests into partners with instructions to discover 10 things that they have in common, the pair who gets to it the fastest wins! Alternatively, you can choose to not divide the guests into pairs, and just let them mingle with one another until they find the one they’ve got the most things in common with,

Rock, Paper Scissors Showdown

A childhood favorite that everybody knows how to play, this game is fast, energizing, and uber-competitive in the best way possible!

Just divide the party people into two different teams (if they belong to two or three separate social groups, it’s best to mix them up at random!), and have one member from each team compete against the other in the ultimate Rock, Paper Scissors showdown. The team with the most wins gets a grand party prize!

Party ID Cards

The most straightforward way to ease strangers into mixing at a party is to introduce them to one another. But let’s make this fun by adding fun ID cards that highlight something unique about the person. This can be there own little Instagram bio but in a party edition. For a socials mixer, including “single” & “taken” arm bands is always a plus!

The Complete Guide to Planning an Authentic Mexican Fiesta (Part I)

The Feast 

Food Menu 

True Mexican food is at the heart of an authentic Mexican Fiesta. Rich, flavourful, and fresh, Mexican cuisine is an exciting favorite that really inspires guests to dig in and savor its flavors. The cuisine has some spicy and tangy taste notes that take you on a satisfying culinary journey.

Here’s what Spreeh recommends for your Mexican Fiesta menu (click the link for the recipe and scroll through the pictures for some chic plating ideas!):

Ultimate Mexican Nachos

Loaded, crunchy, and finger-lickin’ good Nachos are a permanent fixture in every Mexican fiesta. They make for the most addictive appetizer and they’re easy to make!



Fajitas

A simple but vibrant dish that packs a robust Mexican flavor. You can put together the fajita rolls yourself, or present the appetizer on the table and invite guests to make their own masterpieces!



Taco Buffet

Here’s where you can get really creative! You can include shredded chicken or fish, refried beans, shredded salad, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, and plenty of lime wedges for garnish.



Grilled Mexican Street Corn

Juicy, crispy, creamy, and zesty with a hint of chili, the Mexican street corn makes for a super side dish that really elevates the flavor of the feast in true Mexican fashion.



Mexican Rice

A marvelous Mexican main dish, the tangy tomato rice can be made cheesy or with veggies or with chicken, and it can be prepped as a one pot dish.



Rotisserie Chicken (optional)

If your fiesta favors a non-vegetarian main dish, you can go for an authentic Mexican Rotisserie Chicken Pollo Asado – whole chicken grilled in a tart citrus marinade and rubbed with hot Mexican spices. But you’ll preferably need an outdoor grill or oven with a rotisserie attachment.


Churros with Hot Chili Chocolate for Dessert!

And finally, we have these decadent Mexican doughnuts served with rich, chili-spiked hot chocolate for some delicious dunking!



Drinks Menu  

A fun fiesta favors a fully stocked bar, and we have just the right list of Mexican cocktails & mocktails you need for your Mexican fiesta to be a high-flying success!

The Perfect Margarita

The classic on-the-rocks margarita with the perfect cocktail ration: 3 parts tequila or agave spirit, 2 parts triple sec liqueur, and 1 part freshly squeezed lime juice


Paloma Picante

Paloma’s are cocktails like margaritas with their own citrusy flair. Tart and tangy grapefruit soda are added, along with a pinch of Mexican chili-lime seasoning that artfully decorates the rim of the glass.


Mexican Strawberry Water (Agua de Fresca)

Flavourful and refreshing non-alcoholic fresh fruit waters made with real crushed or blended fruit. A perfect cooling accompaniment with the spicy cuisine.


Watermelon Lime Agua Fresca

A favorite of the Mexicans, the Watermelon Lime Agua Fresca is a refreshing non-alcoholic drink that’s served tall with ice. You can also give it your own spin by adding cantaloupe or honeydew!


Mexican Beer

And for those who prefer to go for their usual chilled beer, you can always serve some Mexican beers such as Sol or Corona that are available in India.


The Complete Guide to Planning an Authentic Mexican Fiesta (Part II)

The Fiesta 

We strongly believe that one should experience the joy of an authentic Mexican Fiesta with their friends and family at least once in their life. It’s a gathering filled with vibrant color, fantastic food, great music, and endless joy.

In Part I, we covered everything you need for a full Mexican Feast – authentic, easy-to-make recipes for your appetizers, mains, mocktails, and cocktails. 

Now, read on to know everything you need for creating the right ambiance for an authentic Mexican Fiesta 

Party Décor 

Vibrant, fun, and fresh is the perfect way to describe the decorations for an authentic Mexican Fiesta. If you want to truly channel the spirit of an authentic fiesta, you can look at incorporating the colors of the Mexican Flag – a roaring red, contrasting white, and lush green! 

Lace your entrance with Fiesta theme décors such as sombreros, colorful flags, chili pepper streamers, cacti succulents, patterned throw pillows, acoustic guitars, and drums. You can even order a bunch of mini sombreros for your guests to raise the fiesta spirit.





Table Décor 

The table décor can really be the centerpiece of your fiesta décor. A Mexican feast calls for a bright and eclectic table adorned with colors, flowers, food, and cocktails that promise a good time and an even better meal. 

Start with your selection of vibrant table runners and napkins, you can top them with some bright and lush floral arrangements, or go for the traditional cacti and succulents in colorful pots. Another fresh take is to fill bowls or vases with freshly cut citrus fruits such as limes, oranges, or lemons that add to the fun and vibrant fiesta fervor. 

You can also place several maracas around the table for a fun addition that guests can enjoy!







Music & Entertainment 

Nothing puts you in the Mexican party mood more than Mexican music! Think soulful South American jazz, melodious acoustic guitars or the euphoric rhythm of a mariachi band! You can curate a perfect party on Spotify, Apple Music, Youtube, or Gaana or you can check out some downloadable playlists online. Either way, we have a few recommendations to get you dancing!

  1. Tequila by The Champs
  2. Oye Como Va by Santana
  3. La Cucaracha 
  4. Tijuana Taxi by Herb Alpert 
  5. La Bamba by Ritchi Valens 
  6. South of the Border by Frank Sinatra
  7. Mexican Hat Dance aka Chiapanecas
  8. Bamboleo by the Gypsy Kings
  9. Mexico by Bob Moore & His Orchestra 
  10. Mexican Radio by Wall of Voodoo 
  11. Vaya Con Dios
  12. Guatanamera by Celia Cruz

Playlist courtesy of mesagrapevine.com



Party Games

The best way to dial up the spirit of a party is to throw in some fun party games in the mix. You can invite your guests to play some easy and popular party games but make it Mexican! Think of paper dance, but make it salsa or think of musical chairs but this time with sombreros! Everyone passes the sombreros around in a circle and when the music stops you have to put it on and do a little easy Mexican Hat Dance – the national dance of Mexico!

Then of course there is the classic Mexican Piñata, the participants are blindfolded and take turns to break the piñata with a stick to release the goodies!



  Party Favors

Leave your guests with a little something that reminds them of what could arguably be one of the best days of their life! A decorative sombrero, a succulent, or the traditional Mexican maraca would make an ideal souvenir for the party. You can browse through Amazon, or go to Etsy to select some cute handmade Mexican party favors!