Fabulous outdoor parties

After two years planning corporate events, engagement parties and other celebrations part-time, and holding down full-time office gigs, Monica Krasny and Rachel Azagury quit their day jobs and turned their Toronto company, The Designer Event, into a full-time venture. And through their sister company, Designer Cookie, they create edible chocolate business cards, gift baskets and cakes embossed with your favourite photos (it's all edible).

These girls know how to party and they have some advice if you're planning a summer event -- big, small, formal or casual -- of your own. "Our philosophy is don't stress," says Rachel. "The event isn't just for your guests, it's for you, too. Don't worry about whether your guests will like it because they will: it's free food, it's summer, and it's going to be great."

The trends right now
• Cute favours for your guests to take home.
• Mini mains -- hamburgers, mac 'n cheese pots, and hot dogs made with party sausages. For dessert? Mini cakes and cupcakes, of course!
• Moroccan themes and Indian prints.
• Live entertainment. "I mean showgirls, poker, not your typical 'sit-and-eat-rubber-chicken' event anymore. Interactive activities are popular," says Rachel.
• Food stations. "Maybe not for a wedding, but for an engagement party or sweet 16, they're perfect. You don't need a six-course meal," says Rachel.