I have been a fan of David Tutera since the year 2000 when I was lucky enough to attend an all out New Years Eve party at a beautiful home in Bedford, N.Y. I really didn’t know what to expect but I knew that it would be amazing from the information provided on the invitation! It was spectacular, a perfect balance of decadence decor (literally a transformation), 80’s entertainment (flown in from Vegas), and off the charts food! Once you top it off with the chic friends, dancing and great New Years vibes the evening was nothing short of orchestrated perfection! A few years ago, I included David in a Weddings Magazine article and was curious to see what he was up to now…

What’s the newest trends in Weddings?

One of the biggest trends we’ve seen recently is this focus on nature and organic elements. I love the look of mixing natural elements with more elegant settings, or vice versa. For example, a stunning and formal ballroom is softened by incorporating centerpieces made up mostly of wildflowers accented with lots of greenery and branches. This trend is also making its way into fashion, with softer more feminine fabrics, and food, with locally sourced farm-to-table menus. Pale lavender, soft peach, and mint green will be the next colors incorporated into these organic feeling weddings, rather than the grassy green and ivory we’ve been seeing.

What is your favorite type of party to plan?

I love planning all types of parties, but I think I’d have to say that my favorite is a wedding! It’s the most important day in the couple’s life and there are so many special moments and elements to focus on getting just right. I also love incorporating the bride’s and groom’s personalities into every aspect to truly make it an individualized and unique experience.

What kind of parties do you throw when you entertain in your home?

This greatly depends on the occasion! If it’s something big, like my daughter’s 1st Birthday, I like for the environment of the party to reflect the importance of the occasion. We went all out for her ‘Cielo in One-derland’ bash, with themed characters, custom chair backs, and an overabundance of huge balloons and beach balls creating a whimsical feeling! If I’m planning a small dinner party with friends, it’s all about the little details. I’ll focus just on beautiful place cards, a unique and thoughtful menu that coordinates with the event, and special favors for each of my guests.

What advice would you give someone to save money on decor for throwing a party?

If you’re looking to save money on your event, DIY’ing some of your decor elements is the best way to go about it. My Down the Aisle in Style craft collections have some great tools and products to help you do this! By creating a custom banner, hanging paper lanterns from the ceiling, and embellishing simple candle holders and frames with rhinestones or pearls, you can quickly, easily, and inexpensively make a big impact. Fortunately for the bride on a budget, DIY is really “in” right now!

What is the most important hostess rules for throwing a party?

The most important thing to remember when hosting a party is to make sure that the focus stays on the comfort and happiness of your guests. You should be cognizant of this when considering when and where your party will take place, planning your menu, and choosing decor and seating. This may mean remembering to provide shawls or blankets for an outdoor event that will run into the evening or offering a vegetarian meal option no matter how big or small the menu. The success of an event is always measured by how much your guests enjoyed themselves!

What are some great hostess gifts?

I always like to give hostess gifts that are really unique to the person or event. Instead of just bringing a bottle of wine to dinner, I’ll also include a wedge of cheese that is a perfect pairing and a beautiful cheese board and knife. If I’m going to be an overnight guest, I love to bring a basket full of bagels and a variety of specialty cream cheese and butter for the next morning. One of my other favorite hostess gifts to bring is designer dish soap, fancy rubber gloves, and a unique pair of dish towels. A hostess gift should be all about making your hostess’ job easier, whether during or after the party!

Is it still fashionable to do old traditions (throwing the garter, the bouquet)?

I don’t believe in things being “fashionable” or not. Incorporating traditions like the bouquet or garter toss into your wedding reception can be a fun addition, but if it doesn’t feel like “you” then don’t think twice about skipping it!

You’re in a party planning business, how do you feel about going to parties. Do you like attending them?

I like going to parties and seeing what other people have come up with. It’s also nice to be able to step out of my normal role of planner and be a guest sometimes. I got into this industry because I love a good celebration, whether or not I planned it!

What is your favorite venue to throw a party in NYC?

There are so many venues in NYC, it’s hard to pick just one! I recently did a stunning wedding at the iconic Plaza Hotel, and it’s definitely high on my list. The classic ambiance lends itself perfectly to an over-the-top and romantic event that your guests will never forget. Depending on your wedding day style, the type of event, and your budget, there are many different ways you could go.