OK, let’s see…there’s Mary Mary (church wave!), “Basketball Wives” (*clutches pearls*), “16 & Pregnant” (I know…I am ashamed), “The Game” (watching it low-key, of course) and “Welcome To Sweetie Pie’s” (Will Tim ever marry Janay?). Ladies and gentlemen, meet my latest guilty pleasures: this late season’s revolving list of television shows. Like most folks, I hang on the edge of my sofa awaiting the latest plot twists, wig snatches and, simply, for the main characters to do better. Though the vast majority of season finales from this past viewing season are now crunched Nielsen numbers and the casts have moved on for their summer vacations, a few cliff-hangers remain.
Since I can mine a party out of most any situation (much to my husband’s chagrin), why not throw a Season Finale Soiree? With a few good friends (make certain that they are regular viewers of the show…I mean, who has time to answer questions while the getting is good?), delightful libations and fun pre-show games, you’ve all the makings of a theme party!
Step 1: After building your guest list, create an invitation. Though I’m usually not a fan of electronic invitation, I will make an exception in this case. Portals such as Evite and Paperless Post are free and offer creative templates. I recommend allowing two weeks’ notice to allow your friends an opportunity to watch any primers, necessary weekend marathons or to catch up on their DVRs.
Step 2: Build a menu based on your budget. Ordering take-out is just fine or you might opt for a potluck. A couple of weeks ago, I was invited to watch the season finale of Scandal (Did you see it? Kerry Washington is tough enough, right?) and the hostess served lasagna, a green salad and a signature drink. ‘Twas perfect! I do suggest adding popcorn, champagne and dessert for a slight twist!
Step 3: Invite your guests over at least two hours before the show airs. This is a great time to play show-related trivia or re-enact some of your favorite scenes from the season a la Masterpiece Theatre. Use online software to build word search or Mad Libs-style games, too.
Step 4: My favorite part of any fete? Enjoy! A soiree like this one should be all about the camaraderie, guests and “Who Done It?”s.
What was your favorite television show this season? Did you enjoy any fun viewing festivities?
Shameeka Ayers is an Atlanta-based lifestyle blogger and author who dispenses entertaining, shelter and food & wine anecdotes and advice via her alter ego, The Broke Socialite. She also produces a national tour of curated dessert-tasting experiences, Sugar Coma Events™. Her first novella, Instantly: How Quickly I Realized I Hate My Job will be released in Summer 2012.
