Lauren Conrad recently released her ninth book, Lauren Conrad Celebrate, a party-planning book and guide to entertaining.
In her newest book, the former MTV “The Hills” star offers budget-friendly lifestyle tips and showcases the dozens of parties she’s thrown over the years through lush photographs.
I sat down with the #1 New York Times bestselling author at a book signing in New Jersey, where Lauren revealed tips for pulling off a great party for any occasion.
Choosing the Theme
“I think you do an appropriate theme,” says Conrad. “A birthday party—it’s whatever you want, it’s your birthday. If it’s a baby shower or a wedding shower, I think you do something that makes it personal. So maybe something that the couple loves or that the bride loves and kind of tie that in.”
The former “Laguna Beach” star revealed a personal touch that she incorporated into her own bridal shower. “I collect teacups because I’m like 80, so we kind of incorporated that into the theme. And I think it’s fun to make it unique to you.”
Hosting Prep
From bridal showers and baby showers, to New Year’s Eve parties and backyard barbecues, and everything in between, Lauren Conrad has pretty much planned it all. So what’s her tip for being a great host?
“I think it’s really important to put together a plan, figure out all of the details ahead of time so you’re not running around last minute trying to pick up last minutes things and get an outfit together and do all of that,” says the self-proclaimed Pinterest fanatic.
“I think that if you put all of this time into a party you should enjoy your party.”
What to Wear
The 30-year-old fashion designer behind Paper Crown and LC Lauren Conrad gives partygoers advice on what to do if unsure of what to wear to a party if there is no dress code.
“I just ask other people going. If I’m ever unsure, I think it’s best to ask than to show up and feel uncomfortable.”
Party!
Now that everything has come together, let the party begin!
“I think the best parties are those ones where you’re just like, ‘I had the best night of my life,’ and I think you forget all the details –what the flowers looked like and maybe what was served,” says Conrad. “But it’s just ones with a bunch of people you love and you’re having fun.”
Out of all the parties she’s planned over the years, the experienced hostess shared with me what her favorite party has been.
“Our wedding reception because it was the biggest party ever thrown.”
When I asked about another book being in her future, she replied, “I hope so,” which prompted me to ask if she had anything particular in mind.
“Well, I don’t have one in mind, I just love doing it.”
As for what’s next for the author, Conrad states, “I’ve spent so long working on this book, I’m just really excited to have it out and be able to share it with everyone—this is sort of what the last year and half has led to, so I’m really ‘celebrating’ this.”