A good party is one that is designed to entertain and bond friends. The bad parties I've been to are the ones that are held to impress other people.
Derek BlasbergGetting last-minute cancellations can put a black cloud over an event before it has even started. If it's a large, casual cocktail party, then I'll often not say anything until the next day. But if you're not able to make it to a small, seated dinner, you have to call the host - there's nothing worse than an empty chair at a table.
Derek BlasbergI think the sort of person you want at a party is someone who is self-aware, polite and has a basic knowledge of table manners. And that goes for both men and women.
Derek Blasberg