How to Throw a Great Party

Ultimately, your party should be fun! That's the goal: Throwing one seriously epic party that your guests will talk about for years to come. But how do you make your big night stand out amongst the throngs of events your family and friends have attended in the past?

Look your best! Now's not the time to be Plain Jane. You should have a fantastic dress that makes you feel like a million bucks, and jewelry and shoes to go with it. Yes sure to get your hair and makeup done.

It may sound obvious, but it's important to personally greet each and every guest at your party. Once the celebration is underway, do your best to spend time with each person—whether that means chatting over a cocktail, visiting their table at dinner, or letting loose on the dance floor.



While open bars can be pricey, there are ways to make it work on any budget. Hold your party at a winery and be assured of a great selection.

Feed your people! A mix of new and different tasty bites gives a surprise, combined with something comforting like great Italian food will please everyone.

Want to know the best way to get your guests out on the dance floor? Play the songs they actually want to hear! Have your DJ make an announcement that they'll be taking requests and watch the dance floor fill up when a crowd-favorite comes on.

Not only is a photo booth a fun activity for your reception, it's also a great alternative for your guestbook or favor. The options are literally endless, but we love a great selection of props for your buddies to play with

. No one wants your wedding night to end, but since it has to, go out on a high note. Do a fun and festive farewell, like a fireworks show, sparkler exit, or confetti send-off! Your guests will love it, and it will make for some amazing photos.

A Million Dollar Home Bargain

It's a trend that can't be ignored. More people are moving to the Sacramento region from the Bay Area. That's the word from the Greater Sacramento Area Economic Council. The median home price in San Francisco is more than $1 million, but in El Dorado and Placer counties, it’s just over $440,000. Luxury homes in Roseville, Granite Bay and El Dorado Hills may be unaffordable for many in the Sacramento region, but they're a bargain for Bay Area transplants, even at $1 million and up. More

More Sourdough in El Dorado Hills & Beyond

A locally owned eatery known for its sourdough bread won't be a single-store operation much longer. Sourdough & Co., currently located in the El Dorado Hills Town Center, is expanding. About 15 new sites are planned in the Sacramento region and beyond, according to Steve Presson, the company's CFO. Presson is also the president of Original Pete's Restaurant & Brewhouse, another locally owned eatery with multiple locations. MORE