Celebrity Party Planner Colin Cowie's Top Entertaining Tips

There are party planners and then the are party planners. Colin Cowie, the slick British party guru, definitely falls into the latter group. (You might even recognize him from one of his many appearances on the Today Show or the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Not to mention -- the countless weddings, events, and major parties that Cowie has planned for almost any celebrity you can imagine.

So last night, when Cowie opened the doors of his tricked-out penthouse apartment in New York to a group of editors and bloggers, I was amazed to find that his natural grace as an entertainer isn't just for the A-list crowd. He was kind, gracious and the consummate host -- popping samosas into one of his amazing Electrolux ovens while taking everyone on tours of the glass-enclosed and Macassar ebony-accented space. To borrow from Cowie's vernacular, it was quite a JDM (as in jaw-dropping moment).

But that's not all, Cowie was also kind enough to share some of his priceless tips -- here are few:
1. Organization is Key!
Cowie has enviable custom cabinetry in his kitchen and a (color-coded!) closet that helps him stay super-duper organized. But even if some of us can't have that luxury, organizing is really a state of mind. Lists, lists, lists are essential -- especially before a party. Cowie also recommends labeling platters and glasses with sticky notes before a party.

2. Mixing and Matching
As in do it! Cowie calls himself the Imelda Marcos of glassware, and what's more, he really uses all his prized pieces. And you can, too. And what's more, if you don't have a complete set of china of crystal, mix your everyday stuff in with it. The variety, he promises, will create a fun look and atmosphere.

3. Make a Specialty Cocktail or Dish
I have to say -- I never really understood this tip, but after experiencing some of Cowie's scrumptious sausage rolls (more on that later), I'll always think of them now in connection to him! And another of his tips? Having a few pitchers of a "signature" drink at the ready, made beforehand and stored away will prove to be a real time saver.

And lastly, I have to pass on the recipe for the aforementioned sausage rolls! Thanks Mr. Cowie!

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